Wan Khao Phansa and the retreat period is a popular time for Thai boys and men to become ordained as monks. For most of those being ordained, joining the monkhood is just a temporary measure which fulfils the expectations of family and achieves merit for all concerned. The beginning of the retreat period is also a time when Thai Buddhists will make donations to the local wat and may demonstrate renewed commitment to Buddhism. A common way of doing this is to try and abstain from meat, alcohol or tobacco for three months. The retreat period ends in October with Awk Phansa.