It is one of Thailand's most beautiful celebrations. Of Brahmanical origin, Loy Krathong is also known as the Festival of Lights. For the occasion, thousands of floating offerings illuminated by candles drift across the country's waters. If you happen to be in Thailand at that time, you simply cannot miss this magical tradition! Discover everything you need to know about Loy Krathong…

A festival inspired by the Hindu celebration of Divali

The Loy Krathong, also called the Festival of Lights, owes its origin to King Phra-Ruang and his royal concubine, Nang Nopphama, under the Sukhothai kingdom. Drawing inspiration from the Hindu celebration of Divālī, this festivity honors the goddess of waters. While in India they venerate the goddess of the Ganges, in Thailand they revere her equivalent, known as Phra Mae Khongkha. The celebration, originally Brahmanical, was subsequently adapted by Thai Buddhists. In writings by King Rama IV dating from 1863, it became a ceremony in honor of Buddha.

Since then, Loy Krathong has been celebrated annually during the full moon of the 12th lunar month. On this date and throughout the country—particularly along riverbanks, near waterways, and on seashores—Thai people gather to seek Buddha's blessing and ask for his mercy. Beyond its religious significance, Loy Krathong also marks the end of the rainy season.

Lanterns and floating offerings

To honor Buddha, Thai people craft their own offerings. These are the famous krathong, small rafts traditionally shaped like lotus flowers (though you'll also see them as swans or stupas), crafted from banana leaves. On these miniature vessels are placed candles along with incense and flowers. Beyond these three essentials, some add additional offerings such as locks of hair, sweets, coins, or banknotes…

The offerings are then released onto the water of a river, stream, or beach. Symbolically, this allows people to seek forgiveness, let go of grudges and anger, and begin anew. In essence, these offerings are meant to bring good fortune to those who release them. There's even a saying that if a candle's flame remains lit until it passes out of sight, your wish will come true…

Where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Thailand?

Loy Krathong is one of the country's most spectacular celebrations because it invites the entire nation to join the festivities. Alongside the release of offerings, there are fireworks displays, parades, krathong races, and beauty contests… The best place to celebrate Loy Krathong remains its birthplace: Sukhothai. For this occasion, the ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom stages a stunning spectacle of sound, light, and traditional dance. In Bangkok, the celebration is equally grand, given the presence of the mighty Chao Phraya River. It is along its banks at the level of Rama VIII Bridge that the festivities come alive!

Chiang Mai is also a prime destination for celebrating Loy Krathong. The reason being, they also celebrate the famous Festival of Lanterns (Yi Peng) on the same day. In fact, the two are often confused! You can also celebrate Loy Krathong in Ayutthaya, Suphanburi, Tak, Samut Songkhram, or even on the beaches of the southern islands.

Mark your calendar: November 1st, 2020.

Florine Dergelet