Locals pierced their cheeks with swords, skewers and even umbrellas before a firecracker parade for an extreme finale to the Phuket Vegetarian Festival.

The Taoist devotees went to extreme lengths to show their commitment to their beliefs, with one man even carrying three swords cross-crossed through his cheeks.

Another creative follower pieced his chops with bamboo umbrellas, which he proudly displayed during a parade.

One man even managed to cram six martial arts knives through his mouth.

The annual festival, which includes firecracker parades and offerings, has become best known for the shows put on by the self-flagellating 'mah song' people, or 'horses of the gods', as they are known to locals.

They pierce their cheeks with sharp implements - including long metal skewers, swords, umbrellas, axes kitchen knives, and even the pointed bowsprits of model ships - in graphic shows of spiritual fortitude.

The piercings are done without anesthetic, with devotees believing the gods will shield them from the pain or injury.

Huge golden Chinese dragons, auspicious artifacts, and ornate palanquins carrying lucky deities were also paraded on the streets during the festivities.

The yearly procession takes place every year at shrines across the island, where there is a hardened Thai-Chinese community. Similar events happen around Thailand among those with Chinese ancestry, but few are as extreme as those on the holiday island.

The festival, also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, usually takes place in the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, typically around September or October. It has roots in ancient Chinese culture.

Participants also observe a strict vegetarian or vegan diet for nine days.

Devotees believe the sacrifice will cleanse their bodies and minds and invite good luck and fortune into their lives. Many participants believe it will also bestow health and spiritual strength.

This year's Vegetarian Festival will run until October 23.