It's 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 candlelight drift across the country's waters. If you're visiting Thailand at this 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 Diwali

The Loy Krathong, also called the Festival of Lights, owes its origins to King Phra-Ruang and his royal consort, Nang Nopphama, during the Sukhothai kingdom. Drawing inspiration from the Hindu festival of Diwālī, this celebration honors the goddess of waters. While in India the goddess of the Ganges is venerated, in Thailand, worshippers honor her equivalent, known as Phra Mae Khongkha. The festival, originally Brahmanical in nature, was subsequently adapted by Thai Buddhists. In writings by King Rama IV dating to 1863, it became a ceremony in honor of the Buddha.

Since then, Loy Krathong has been celebrated each year during the full moon of the 12th lunar month. On this date and throughout the country—particularly along riverbanks, near waterways, and by the sea—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 venerate Buddha, Thai people create 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 this miniature vessel are placed candles along with incense and flowers. Beyond these three essentials, many add other offerings such as locks of hair, sweets, coins, or banknotes…

The offerings are then placed on the water of a river, stream, or beach. Symbolically, this allows people to ask for forgiveness, release their grudges and anger, and give themselves a fresh start. In essence, these offerings are meant to bring good fortune to those who release them. It's even said 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 beautiful celebrations because it invites the entire nation to join in the festivities. Beyond the release of offerings, the festival features fireworks, parades, krathong races, and beauty pageants. The best place to celebrate Loy Krathong remains its birthplace: Sukhothai. For the occasion, the ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom stages a magnificent spectacle of sound, light, and traditional dance. In Bangkok, the celebration is grand given the presence of the impressive Chao Phraya River. The festivities reach their peak on its banks near the Rama VIII Bridge!

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

Next date to mark: November 1st, 2020.

Florine Dergelet