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 illuminated floating offerings adorned with candles drift across the country's waterways. If you're traveling through Thailand at this time, you simply cannot miss this enchanting 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 concubine, Nang Nopphama, during the Sukhothai kingdom. Drawing inspiration from the Hindu festival of Diwali, this celebration honors the goddess of waters. While in India homage is paid to the goddess of the Ganges, in Thailand, her equivalent is venerated under the name of Phra Mae Khongkha. The festival, originally Brahmanical in nature, was later adapted by Thai Buddhists. In writings by King Rama IV dating to 1863, it became a ceremony honoring the 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 the coast—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 create their own offerings. These are the famous krathong, small rafts traditionally shaped like lotus flowers (though some take the form of swans or stupas), crafted from banana leaves. On these miniature vessels 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 set upon the waters of a river, stream, or beach. Symbolically, this allows people to ask for forgiveness, let go of grudges and anger, and embrace 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 the offering 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 in the festivities. Beyond the release of offerings, fireworks, parades, krathong races, and beauty contests take place throughout the country. The best place to celebrate Loy Krathong is its birthplace: Sukhothai. For the occasion, the ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom organizes a magnificent spectacle of lights, sounds, and traditional dances. In Bangkok, the celebration is grand given the presence of the imposing Chao Phraya River. The festivities reach their peak along its banks near the Rama VIII Bridge!

Chiang Mai is also a prime destination for celebrating Loy Krathong. This is because the famous lantern festival (Yi Peng) is also celebrated there on the same day. In fact, they're often confused with one another! You can also celebrate Loy Krathong in Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Tak, Samut Songkhram, or even on the beaches of the southern islands.

Mark your calendar: November 1st, 2020.

Florine Dergelet