The History of Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong has ancient roots, with some historians tracing its origins back to the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th century. The festival is believed to be derived from the Hindu festival of Diwali, reflecting the cultural amalgamation of Thai and Indian traditions. Initially, Loy Krathong was celebrated as a way to show gratitude to the water spirits for their life-giving properties.
Over the years, Loy Krathong has evolved into a festival that embodies various cultural and religious meanings, celebrating themes of forgiveness, renewal, and letting go. It is a time for Thais to reflect on their past year, seek forgiveness, and make wishes for the year ahead.
When is Loy Krathong Date?
Loy Krathong is celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th month in the Thai lunar calendar. This means the date varies each year but typically falls in October or November.
For 2024, Loy Krathong will be celebrated on November 15. Here are the dates for the next few years:
- 2024: November 15
- 2025: November 4
- 2026: October 24
- 2027: November 12
Make sure to check the specific lunar calendar closer to the date, as local traditions may also influence the celebrations!
What is Krathong Made From?
A krathong is traditionally made from natural materials like banana tree trunks, leaves, flowers, and bread are biodegradable and safe for the environment. They decompose quickly and can serve as food for fish and other aquatic life. In the past, krathongs made from Styrofoam or plastic were popular due to their durability.
However, they contribute to pollution and are harmful to water ecosystems. These materials have fallen out of favor due to growing environmental awareness. Therefore when you want to buy Krathong , be considered to choose natural materials.
Where to Buy Krathong In Bangkok?
A lot of Thais people at rural area tend to make their own Krathong because they can find natural materials easily. If you are in the city, you would have time to find materials, therefore you can buy Krathong.
During the days of the Loy Krathong Festival, you’ll find street vendors selling Kratongs on the streets , near rivers, lakes, or parks where the festival is celebrated, such as Asiatique the Riverfront or Lumphini Park in Bangkok.
Some temples set up stalls selling Kratongs during the festival, especially those located near rivers or water. Major markets such as Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market, Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market), or local street markets will usually sell Kratongs leading up to the festival.
Loy Krathong Festival in Bangkok
In November 15, 2024, it is Loy Krathong day. However, each year Loy Krathong day is different , you can check calendar that year. This day is one of the major national festivals held during full moon annually.
The propose of celebration is for paying respect of Gods of River. The local people will create small decoration which is call Krathong and float along the river. Some time they put small portion of their belonging such as hair,and nail which is mean bring out any bad luck in life.
Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok?
Loy Krathong is celebrated grandly in Bangkok with many beautiful spots for releasing Krathongs into the water. Here are some of the popular locations in the city where you can join the festivities:
1. Chao Phraya River
The banks of the Chao Phraya River offer stunning views and host major Loy Krathong events. You can participate in the celebration at various riverfront locations, such as:
- Asiatique The Riverfront: This popular riverside mall organizes a large event with live performances, food stalls, and Krathong floating spots.
- ICONSIAM: Another high-end riverside mall that holds Loy Krathong activities, cultural performances, and beautiful displays.
- Sathorn Pier: A great spot for a more intimate experience of releasing Krathongs into the river.
- Phra Athit Pier and Santichaiprakan Park : Situated along the Chao Phraya River, these are popular spots for Loy Krathong in the heart of the old city (Rattanakosin Island). The park is ideal for families and groups looking for a laid-back place to enjoy the festival.
- Riverside Hotels : Many luxury hotels along the Chao Phraya River, such as the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, and The Peninsula, host special Loy Krathong dinners and events with river views. They often have Krathong-making workshops and organized floating ceremonies.
- River Cruise : Beside enjoy delicious food ,Chao Phraya River cruise offers a luxurious and magical experience, combining traditional festivities with a stunning view of floating Krathongs, fireworks, and illuminated landmarks along Bangkok’s riverside. Many river cruises are specially organized for the festival, offering guests a unique vantage point to enjoy the celebrations in comfort.
2. Temples
Several temples in Bangkok play an important role in the Loy Krathong festival, offering spiritual significance and beautiful locations for releasing Krathongs. Here are some notable temples in Bangkok where you can celebrate Loy Krathong:
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) :One of the most iconic temples in Bangkok, Wat Arun is located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The temple’s stunning silhouette against the river makes it a favorite spot for Loy Krathong celebrations.
- Wat Yanawa : This temple located close to the Chao Phraya River and Sathorn Pier, is shaped like a Chinese junk boat and offers a more intimate, local experience for Loy Krathong. It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger tourist spots, but still holds cultural significance.
- Wat Prayoon : Located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayoon is known for its peaceful setting. The temple’s large pond is one of the main spots for floating Krathongs, and it offers a quiet, spiritual ambiance during the festival.
- Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) with its iconic Golden Mount, is a prominent place to celebrate Loy Krathong. The temple hosts a large fair in November, coinciding with the Loy Krathong celebrations, and offers spectacular views of Bangkok. After floating your Krathong, climb the Golden Mount for panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline lit up by Krathongs and lanterns.
- Wat Ratchanatdaram : Known for its unique Loha Prasat (Metal Castle), Wat Ratchanatdaram is another beautiful temple to visit during Loy Krathong. Located near the Democracy Monument, it provides a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Take in the beauty of the Loha Prasat, especially at night when it’s illuminated.
These temples offer a more spiritual and peaceful experience of Loy Krathong, allowing you to connect with Thai traditions and cultural practices. However , most of temples around Bangkok celebrate for Loy Krathongs and anyone is welcome to join as your time and convenient allows.
3. Famous Local Spots
Beside Temples and Chao Praya River , there are more interesting spot for you to check out to celebrate Loy Krathong. Probably, each year you can go differently place.
- Taling Chan Floating Market: for a more traditional and local experience, the Taling Chan Floating Market, located on the outskirts of Bangkok, offers a chance to experience Loy Krathong with a unique floating market vibe. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with fewer tourists and more local flavor.
- Chulalongkorn University Campus: the large lake on the campus of Chulalongkorn University is a popular spot for students and locals to celebrate Loy Krathong. The university often organizes cultural performances and ceremonies during the festival. Join students and local residents in floating Krathongs in the campus lake.
- Bangkok’s Rooftop Bars: If you prefer to admire the Loy Krathong celebrations from a distance, many of Bangkok’s iconic rooftop bars provide panoramic views of the city’s riverside and fireworks displays.
Fun activities at Krathong Festival
Loy Krathong is not only a spiritual and cultural festival but also a fun-filled celebration with a variety of activities that appeal to people of all ages. Here are some of the most popular and enjoyable activities you can experience during the festival:
1. Floating a Krathong
The most iconic activity of the Loy Krathong festival is the floating of the Krathong, which is a beautifully decorated basket, traditionally made from banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense.
- What to Do:
- Light the candle and incense on your Krathong and make a wish for good luck and happiness.
- Gently release your Krathong into a river, canal, or lake while observing the floating candles and flowers drift away.
2. Lighting Lanterns (Yi Peng)
In some areas, especially in northern Thailand, Loy Krathong coincides with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where participants release glowing lanterns into the sky.
- What to Do:
- Buy a sky lantern made of rice paper, light the fuel source, and release it into the sky along with thousands of others.
- Make a wish as you let the lantern float away, symbolizing the release of bad luck and negativity.
3. Fireworks Displays
Loy Krathong is often accompanied by spectacular fireworks shows that light up the night sky over rivers and parks. Many of the popular celebration spots in Bangkok, such as Asiatique and ICONSIAM, host large fireworks displays.
- What to Do:
- Find a good spot near a river or open area to watch the fireworks.
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful bursts of light reflecting on the water and illuminating the city.
4. Krathong Making Workshops
Many events and venues offer Krathong-making workshops, where you can learn to make your own Krathong from natural materials like banana leaves, flowers, and candles.
- What to Do:
- Join a workshop and get creative as you design your own unique Krathong.
- Learn about the traditional significance of each element in the Krathong, such as lotus flowers, candles, and incense sticks.
- Take your handmade Krathong to a nearby river or lake to float it after the workshop.
5. Cultural Performances
Loy Krathong celebrations often include traditional Thai cultural performances, such as classical Thai dance, music, and puppet shows.
- What to Do:
- Watch elegant Thai dancers perform in traditional costumes, often depicting stories from Thai folklore and mythology.
- Enjoy live performances of Thai classical music using instruments like the ranat (xylophone) and khim (hammered dulcimer).
- Check out puppet shows that bring traditional Thai stories to life.
6. Beauty Pageants (Noppamas Queen Contest)
A special feature of Loy Krathong is the Noppamas Queen beauty pageant, where young women dress in traditional Thai clothing and compete to be crowned the most beautiful and graceful.
- What to Do:
- Watch the contestants parade in their colorful and ornate traditional costumes.
- Take photos and enjoy the vibrant pageantry.
- Learn about the legend of Noppamas, the woman believed to have created the first Krathong during the reign of King Sukhothai.
7. Food Stalls and Markets
Loy Krathong festivals usually come with street food markets offering a wide variety of Thai delicacies, snacks, and sweets.
- What to Do:
- Try popular Thai street food such as grilled skewers (moo ping), pad Thai, som tam (papaya salad), and kanom krok (coconut pancakes).
- Enjoy Thai desserts like mango sticky rice, kanom buang (crispy pancakes), and various coconut-based sweets.
- Explore markets and stalls that sell traditional Thai handicrafts, souvenirs, and festival items.
8. Boat Parades
In some areas, especially near rivers, Loy Krathong is celebrated with illuminated boat parades, where large boats are decorated with lights, flowers, and statues of Thai deities.
- What to Do:
- Watch the procession of beautifully lit boats float along the river.
- Admire the detailed decorations and learn about the stories and symbols depicted on each boat.
- Take photos of the floating procession as it lights up the water.
9. Traditional Games
Many Loy Krathong festivals include traditional Thai games and competitions as part of the celebration. These games are usually set up in parks and fairgrounds during the event.
- What to Do:
- Try games like tug-of-war, sack races, or greased pole climbing.
- Participate in activities like water balloon fights or coconut shell walking races.
- Join in the fun with locals and visitors alike, enjoying the festival’s lively and playful atmosphere.
10. Photography
Loy Krathong is one of the most visually stunning festivals in Thailand, offering many opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
- What to Do:
- Capture the beauty of thousands of lit Krathongs floating on rivers, lakes, and canals.
- Photograph cultural performances, traditional costumes, and the colorful fireworks in the night sky.
- Take portraits of the illuminated temples, parks, and riverside areas where the celebrations take place.
11. Night Market Shopping
Many Loy Krathong festivals are held near popular night markets, offering the chance to shop for Thai products, clothing, and handmade crafts.
- What to Do:
- Browse stalls selling traditional Thai silk, handmade jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Shop for festive clothing to wear during the celebrations, including Thai-style garments.
- Discover unique items like Thai herbal products, lanterns, and other festival decorations.
Loy Krathong is a mix of spiritual significance and joyful celebration, making it a fun and magical experience for everyone involved!
How to Perform the Floating Ritual?
- Light the Candle and Incense: After making your prayer or wish, light the candle and incense on your Krathong.
- Make Your Offering: Hold your Krathong and say your prayer, either aloud or in your heart.
- Release the Krathong: Gently place the Krathong into the water and let it float away, carrying your prayers and wishes with it.
This ritual is deeply meaningful, whether it’s performed with a focus on spirituality, personal reflection, or simply as a way to enjoy the beauty of the festival.
What Do People Pray About before Float the Krathong into Water?
Before floating a Krathong into the water during Loy Krathong, people traditionally say a prayer or make a wish, which can be personal, spiritual, or symbolic. The act of floating the Krathong is seen as a way of paying respects to the Goddess of Water (Phra Mae Khongkha) and asking for forgiveness for any harm done to water sources. It is also an opportunity to let go of negative feelings or bad luck and seek blessings for the future.
Common Prayers and Wishes Before Floating a Krathong:
- Apology to the Water Goddess: Many people pray to Phra Mae Khongkha and ask for forgiveness for polluting or misusing water throughout the year. This prayer expresses gratitude for the water’s life-giving properties.
- Sample Prayer: “Phra Mae Khongkha, I offer you this Krathong as a token of my respect and gratitude. I ask for your forgiveness for any harm I may have caused to the water and for blessings of health and prosperity.”
- Letting Go of Negative Feelings: Loy Krathong is also a time for people to symbolically let go of their troubles, negative emotions, or bad luck. As they float their Krathong, they pray for a fresh start and peace of mind.
- Sample Prayer: “As I float this Krathong, I release all my worries, anger, and sadness. May this light guide me toward happiness and peace in the coming year.”
- Personal Wishes: Some people make personal wishes for good health, success, love, or other blessings for themselves and their loved ones. These wishes are often whispered quietly before the Krathong is released.
- Sample Prayer: “I wish for good health, happiness, and success for myself and my family. May we find love, peace, and prosperity in the year ahead.”
- Prayers for Good Luck and Protection: Many participants pray for protection and good fortune. As the candle and incense burn on the Krathong, they symbolize lighting the way for a brighter future.
- Sample Prayer: “May this Krathong carry away my misfortunes and bring light and luck to my path. I pray for protection and blessings in all that I do.”
- Spiritual Reflection: For some, Loy Krathong is a time of quiet reflection and gratitude. They may thank the universe or their spiritual guides for the blessings they have received and pray for continued guidance.
- Sample Prayer: “I thank the universe for the many blessings I have received. May I continue to walk a path of wisdom, kindness, and compassion.”
Travel During Loy Krathong Festival
Traveling during the Loy Krathong Festival is a magical experience, but since it is one of Thailand’s most celebrated festivals, it can get quite busy. Planning in advance is key to making the most of your trip. Here are some tips and considerations to help you plan effectively:
Book Accommodations Early: Loy Krathong attracts both local and international tourists, especially in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Sukhothai. Hotels near rivers, lakes, or parks where the festival activities take place tend to fill up quickly. In Bangkok, consider staying near the Chao Phraya River, around Asiatique, or near popular parks like Lumphini Park or Benjakitti Park, where events are held. If hotels are fully booked, consider guesthouses, Airbnb, or boutique hotels that may offer a more intimate experience.
Transportation Planning: In cities like Bangkok, public transportation (MRT, BTS Skytrain) will likely be crowded during the festival. Plan to use these services earlier in the day to avoid rush hours and festival crowds. Taxis, Grab, or tuk-tuks can be an option, but expect some delays due to traffic congestion. In some areas, particularly near rivers and temples, roads may be closed to accommodate large crowds and parades. In Bangkok, you might prefer to walk to key locations if they’re near your accommodation to avoid traffic.
Cultural Etiquette : Loy Krathong is a religious and cultural festival, so be mindful of local traditions. Dress modestly, especially if you’re visiting temples, and be respectful during religious ceremonies.
Safety Tips : Popular Loy Krathong spots can get crowded, so keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings. With candles and fireworks part of the celebration, stay alert to avoid any accidents. Watch your step around floating krathongs and be careful when releasing lanterns.
Joining Thai national festivals are fun activities to be part of it once. We encourage you all to come to Bangkok and witness this memorable festival with us. By planning your trip to Thailand in advance, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural significance of the Loy Krathong Festival.
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