Date: 24-28 November 2012
Venue: Nationwide

Loi Krathong is one of the best-preserved traditions and most beautiful festivals celebrated in Thailand, illustrating the close relationship between the Thai way of life and water. On the night of the full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually in November) people gather at lakes, rivers, canals, and/or other waterways to set adrift krathongs. These are vessels shaped like lotus blossom made of banana leaves containing a candle, incense sticks, flowers, and coins. Currently, the krathongs may be made from other materials; such as, bread which is more environmentally-friendly. The launching of the krathongs is a payment of respect to the goddess of water in gratitude for providing water to the people, as well as an appeal for forgiveness for polluting the water. It is believed that krathongs that float on the water carry happiness and prosperity, as well as taking away misery.

Highlight: Visitors can celebrate Loi Krathong Festival nationwide in such places as:  

Bangkok: Loi Krathong is celebrated widely in Bangkok with various kinds of entertainment, and it is organised at many locations, not only at riverside venues. An illuminated boat procession along the Chao Phraya River and the lit-up buildings and historical sites on both sides of the river make Loi Krathong in Bangkok a memorable experience. The popular places for Loi Krathong in Bangkok include Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road, Benchakitti Park on Ratchada Phisek Road, Santichaiprakan Park on Phra Athit Road, and at the foot of the Rama IIX Bridge.  

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: The Bangsai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip is held at the Bangsai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre. This festival features traditional Loi Krathong activities amidst the magnificent ruins of the once glorious capital city of Thailand. Beauty contests, processions of beauty queens, krathong contests, and cultural performances are the highlights of this festival. 

Sukhothai: Held at the Sukhothai Historical Park, the Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival is celebrated in grand fashion. This site is believed to be the origin of this festival. The ruins of the palaces and temples within the Historical Park make for an enchanting atmosphere for the festival and take you back to the past, with people in traditional Thai costumes floating the krathongs on the water. Other activities include fireworks displays, cultural performances, and beauty contests, as well as light and sound presentations.  

Tak: The tradition of Loi Krathong in Tak is different from other provinces, the festival being called ‘Loi Krathong Sai.’ The banana-leaf floats are replaced by coconut shells threaded together into a long chain and released together on the Ping River. The sight of hundreds of glittering lights floating in line along the river is the origin of its name ‘Loi Krathong Sai.’ This festival also includes Loi Krathong Sai contests, light and sound presentations, and fireworks displays. 

Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai celebrates Loi Krathong Lanna style in an event called the Yi Peng Festival. Apart from Loi Krathong on the Mae Ping River, Yi Peng or Lanna-style hot-air balloons are launched into the sky. It is believed that the balloons take away trouble and bad luck. Come and witness the sight of hundreds of Yi Peng floating in the dark sky against the light of the full moon. A Yi Peng procession, Yi Peng competitions, and Lanna cultural performances are also features of this event.

Contact: TAT Call Centre: 1672
Website: www.tourismthailand.org