Tweet

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Thai culture and tradition with Loy Krathong, one of the most captivating and beautiful festivals celebrated throughout Thailand. Known as the Festival of Lights, Loy Krathong takes place on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month (usually in November), when people gather along rivers, lakes, and waterways to pay homage to the goddess of water, express gratitude, and release their worries and misfortunes.

Takeaway, LK 03 loy krathong yi peng san sai, CC BY-SA 3.0

1. Floating Krathongs:

At the heart of Loy Krathong are the floating krathongs, intricately crafted vessels made from banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. These miniature rafts symbolize the offering of thanks to the goddess of water and the letting go of negative emotions and burdens. As dusk falls, people gather by the water’s edge to set their krathongs afloat, making wishes for the future and watching as the flickering candles illuminate the night sky.

2. Traditional Rituals:

Throughout Thailand, locals and visitors alike participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies to mark the occasion of Loy Krathong. This includes paying respects to Buddha images, offering prayers and incense at temples, and joining processions featuring elaborately decorated floats and lanterns. In Chiang Mai, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom, the festival is celebrated with grandeur and spectacle, including parades, cultural performances, and dazzling fireworks displays.

3. Krathong-Making Workshops:

Experience the artistry and craftsmanship of Loy Krathong firsthand by participating in krathong-making workshops held in communities and cultural centres across Thailand. Here, you can learn the intricate techniques of folding banana leaves, weaving intricate patterns, and decorating your Krathong with fragrant flowers and ornamental details. These workshops offer a unique opportunity to connect with local traditions and create your own symbolic offering to the goddess of water.

4. Lantern Releases:

In addition to floating krathongs, Loy Krathong is also celebrated with the release of khom loi, or floating lanterns, into the night sky. These paper lanterns are illuminated by candle flames and symbolize the release of negative energy and the pursuit of happiness and prosperity. Watching thousands of lanterns ascend into the heavens creates a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the imagination and fills the heart with wonder. You can participate in such events in resorts in Phuket which are bound to organize something memorable for their guests such as the Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas.

5. Cultural Performances and Festivities:

Throughout Thailand, Loy Krathong is accompanied by a myriad of cultural performances, traditional music, and folk dances that showcase the rich heritage and diversity of Thai culture. From spectacular light shows to vibrant street markets selling local handicrafts and delicacies, the festive atmosphere of Loy Krathong is infectious, drawing people from all walks of life to join in the celebrations and create cherished memories together.

Tweet