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Picture this: It’s a beautiful November night. The moon is full and bright, casting a soft glow over everything. And then, thousands of little lanterns, like tiny stars, are floating down rivers and canals, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This enchanting scene is not a figment of imagination, but the reality of Thailand’s annual magical Festival of Lights, Loy Krathong.
Every year on the full moon evening of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar, thousands of locals and tourists head to the nearest water body to celebrate their special festival called Loy Krathong, known as Thailand’s “Festival of Lights.”
In Thai, “Loy Krathong” consists of two parts: “Loy” meaning “to float,” and “Krathong” meaning the lotus-shaped baskets or floats made from flowers, candles, incense, and banana leaves. Therefore, “Loy Krathong” collectively translates to “to float a basket”.
It is one of the country’s most enchanting and significant cultural celebrations and usually comes in November, and this year it will be celebrated on November 15, 2024.
People gather nationwide at lakes, rivers, canals, and beaches to honor the goddess of water. Participants create or purchase small, decorated baskets, called krathongs, decorated with banana plants, flowers, incense, and candles. During this festival, they release these beautifully decorated krathongs into rivers, lakes, ponds, or even the sea, to honor the water goddess. As the full moon rises over Thailand, the country’s rivers and lakes come alive with flickering lights, turning the waters into a glittering spectacle. As the Krathongs drift away, carrying away the year’s misfortunes, people make wishes and offer prayers.
Although the precise origins of Loy Krathong remain uncertain, it is a common belief that Loy Krathong originated from the period of the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238 -1438). Adapted from Hindu rituals, the festival emerged as a symbol of gratitude, deeply rooted in the Thai people’s connection with water, the lifeblood of their culture.
How do Thai people Celebrate Loy Krathong Festival?
Loy Krathong has become an integral part of Thailand’s cultural identity and has evolved to include prayers for good fortune, prosperity, and the opportunity to start anew. In traditional Loy Krathong celebrations, Thais usually start the festival by making their own Krathongs at home, often with loved ones. A traditional krathong is made from the stem or trunk of a banana tree which is then decorated with banana leaves and flowers. Alternatively, ready-made Krathongs are available for purchase at local shops.
At dusk, people gather by rivers or temples where religious ceremonies are held, and the beautifully crafted Krathongs are released to float on the water. Before launching the krathong on the nearest stretch of water, incense sticks, and candles are placed inside and lit. A silent wish or prayer is then offered.
Besides releasing krathongs, Thai people also engage in various festivities and traditions during Loy Krathong. They include fireworks displays, friendly competitions to build the largest and most ornate Krathongs, cultural performances, beauty contests known as Noppamas Queen contests, traditional parades, and light and sound shows.
Major Loi Krathong Celebration Locations in Thailand
The Loy Krathong festival is celebrated all over Thailand, but there are a few cities that do it on a larger scale. From Bangkok to Sukhothai, there are many excellent spots to enjoy and experience the unique blend of traditional and modern celebrations. They include:
Sukhothai: Said to be the place of origin of Loy Krathong, Sukhothai City, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where the biggest celebration takes place. It is said to be one of the best destinations to fully immerse oneself in this wonderful celebration that offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern luxury. The festival in Sukhothai spans five days, with the majority of events taking place in the historic Sukhothai Park. A breathtaking scene unfolds as the ancient city is transformed by a sea of flickering lanterns, complemented by moonlight and candlelit krathongs floating across ponds. Sukhothai Historical Park will host the largest Loy Krathong festival from November 8 to 17, 2024.
Chiang Mai: In Chiang Mai, the celebration of Loy Krathong is extra special because it coincides with Yi Peng, creating one of Thailand’s most memorable and picturesque festivals. Aside from the rafts and candles floating peacefully in the river, the night sky is decorated with countless brightly lit paper lanterns. Tha Phae Gate, an iconic landmark in Chiang Mai, is a favorite location for Loy Krathong celebrations among both locals and tourists. Experience a colorful procession of Lanna-style lanterns, a massive krathongs parade, and traditional Thai dance performances. Another top location is the famous Maejo University.
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Bangkok: Enjoy a magical and unforgettable celebration in Bangkok, the city that never sleeps. You can find floating processions and fireworks displays in the vibrant capital of Thailand. Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River has become the central hub for Loy Krathong, with numerous hotels and restaurants offering riverfront views and special festival packages. Other popular spots where locals and visitors can float their krathongs and enjoy the festivities include Lumphini Park, ICONSIAM, and Asiatique The Riverfront.
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Phuket
While riversides are traditional venues for Loy Krathong in Thailand, these coastal cities offer a different style of celebration. They celebrate on their beaches and bays, providing a unique setting that appeals to tourists seeking a refreshing alternative. The island’s stunning beaches and calm waters provide the perfect backdrop as locals and tourists gather to release krathongs into the ocean, making it a serene and unforgettable experience by the sea. Popular locations for enjoying the festival include Patong Beach, Saphan Hin, and Chalong Pier.
