Loy Krathong Festival Guide: Thailand’s Beautiful Festival of Lights

Thailand’s Loy Krathong is one of the most magical festivals in Southeast Asia. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” it’s celebrated by releasing beautiful lotus-shaped baskets, or krathongs, onto rivers, canals, and lakes as a symbolic act of letting go of negativity and bad luck.

Held on the evening of the full moon in the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (usually in November), Loy Krathong is a peaceful, visually stunning, and deeply cultural experience for both locals and tourists alike.

What Is Loy Krathong?

Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) literally means “to float a basket.” The festival involves floating intricately decorated krathongs made of banana leaves, flowers, incense sticks, and candles on water to pay respect to the goddess of water and wash away misfortune.

The event also symbolizes a spiritual cleansing — a way to release negative thoughts, regrets, or sins from the past year.

When Is Loy Krathong 2025?

In 2025, Loy Krathong will take place on the evening of **Monday, November 10th** (depending on the lunar cycle). Dates shift each year, so check ahead if you plan to travel specifically for the festival.

Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Thailand

1. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s Loy Krathong celebration is combined with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of glowing sky lanterns (khom loi) are released into the air. This is the most visually spectacular version of the festival.

2. Bangkok

In Bangkok, locals gather at parks, rivers, and temples to float their krathongs. Best places include:

• Lumphini Park
• Asiatique the Riverfront
• Wat Arun and other riverside temples

3. Sukhothai

Known as the birthplace of Loy Krathong, Sukhothai offers the most traditional version of the festival with historical reenactments, candlelit ruins, and cultural performances inside the Sukhothai Historical Park.

4. Phuket & Coastal Areas

Many beach towns celebrate with ocean-side krathong floating, especially around lakes and lagoons in Phuket and Hua Hin.

How to Make or Buy a Krathong

You can either buy a krathong (30–100 THB) from local vendors or make one yourself. The most eco-friendly krathongs are made from:

• Banana tree trunks
• Banana leaves and flowers
• Bread (that fish can eat)

Avoid styrofoam krathongs — they’re banned in many provinces due to environmental harm.

What to Do During the Festival

• Light the candle and incense on your krathong
• Make a silent wish or prayer
• Gently float it on water and watch it drift away
• Take part in local parades, dance shows, or concerts
• Respect local traditions — dress modestly if visiting temples

Tips for Tourists Experiencing Loy Krathong

• Arrive early — popular spots get very crowded by sunset
• Have your krathong ready in advance
• Use eco-friendly krathongs only
• Bring a tripod or use night mode for photos
• Be respectful during spiritual or temple activities

What’s the Difference Between Loy Krathong and Yi Peng?

Many tourists confuse Loy Krathong with Yi Peng, especially in Chiang Mai. Here’s the difference:

• Loy Krathong: Floating baskets on water (celebrated nationwide)
• Yi Peng: Releasing lanterns into the sky (mostly in the north, especially Chiang Mai)

The festivals happen at the same time but are culturally distinct.

Conclusion: A Must-See Thai Cultural Experience

Loy Krathong is more than just a beautiful photo opportunity — it’s a meaningful celebration rooted in Thai tradition, gratitude, and renewal. Whether you’re in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or a small riverside village, you’ll find yourself touched by the peace and beauty of this unforgettable festival.

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