Every November, just as the rainy season ends and the cooler season begins, Thailand lights up with one of its most magical celebrations: Loy Krathong. If you’ve ever seen photos of candlelit rafts floating across rivers or thousands of lanterns drifting into the night sky, chances are it was taken during this festival. But what’s it all about, and what can you expect if you’re here to experience it yourself?
Loy Krathong, often called the Festival of Lights, has origins dating back more than 700 years to the Sukhothai Kingdom. The word “Loy” means to float, and “Krathong” is the small raft decorated with flowers, candles and incense. In the past, people floated these krathongs to honour Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water. Over time, Buddhist traditions blended in and the ritual also came to symbolise letting go of anger, misfortune and anything you want to leave behind as you start fresh.
Traditionally, families gather to make krathongs from banana leaves, decorating them with flowers, candles and incense. After dark, they carry them to the nearest river, pond or lake and gently set them afloat, sending wishes along with the flickering light. The sight of hundreds of krathongs drifting together is unforgettable.
Many communities host parades, dance performances and competitions for the most beautiful krathong. You’ll also see locals wearing traditional clothing, food stalls popping up near the water and of course, plenty of fireworks lighting the sky.
Like many traditions, Loy Krathong has changed with the times. There’s now a strong push toward traditional eco-friendly krathongs made from bread, banana leaves and flowers instead of styrofoam. Tourism has also given the festival a grander feel, with large events in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai.
In the north, Loy Krathong coincides with Yi Peng, the lantern festival, where thousands of glowing sky lanterns float upward together. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see. If you’re planning to experience Loy Krathong, be ready for a magical night. Waterways all over the country come alive with candlelit krathongs. In Chiang Mai, the sky fills with lanterns as fireworks go off in the distance. You’ll find bustling night markets, food stalls, parades and a festive community vibe wherever you go.
Loy Krathong is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the candles go out. It’s beautiful, meaningful and welcoming, whether you’re taking part in the ritual yourself or simply watching from the riverbank. If you’re in Thailand in November, don’t miss the chance to see the country’s most enchanting festival.
This blog was written by Fox, Social Media Manager at SINE HQ in Bangkok
