Loy Krathong
Festival
ลอยกระทง
Thailand's most enchanting festival! Float decorated baskets on water under the full moon, release sky lanterns, and witness thousands of lights illuminating rivers and skies across the country.
Loy Krathong Festival
Thailand's Festival of Lights
What is Loy Krathong?
Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) is one of Thailand's most beautiful and romantic festivals, celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month (usually November). The name comes from "Loy" (to float) and "Krathong" (a decorated basket), referring to the tradition of floating offerings on water.
The festival honors the water goddess Phra Mae Khongkha and asks for forgiveness for polluting the waterways. As krathongs float away carrying candles, incense, and flowers, people release their anger, grudges, and misfortunes, making way for good luck and fresh beginnings.
In Northern Thailand, particularly Chiang Mai, Loy Krathong coincides with Yi Peng, where thousands of sky lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky, creating one of the world's most spectacular and photographed scenes.
Festival Evening Timeline
Preparation
Arrive at celebration area, buy or make your krathong, find a good spot
Sunset Ceremonies
Temple visits begin, traditional performances start, crowds gather
Krathong Floating
Main event begins - float your krathong and make wishes
Lantern Release
Sky lanterns (Yi Peng) released, creating magical sky views
Fireworks & Shows
Spectacular fireworks displays, light shows, continued celebrations
Types of Krathongs
Traditional Banana Leaf
Classic eco-friendly design made from banana trunk and leaves
Bread Krathong
Edible krathong that feeds fish after floating
Flower Krathong
Elaborate designs with orchids and marigolds
Ice Krathong
Modern eco-friendly option that melts away
Did You Know?
Royal Origins
Legend says Nang Noppamas, a royal consort, created the first krathong in the Sukhothai period (13th century).
Global Recognition
Chiang Mai's Yi Peng lantern release is on many travelers' bucket lists and featured in Disney's "Tangled".
Eco-Friendly Movement
Modern celebrations emphasize biodegradable materials - bread and ice krathongs are increasingly popular.
Romantic Tradition
Couples float krathongs together. If they stay together on water, it's believed the relationship will last!
Ready for Loy Krathong?
Experience Thailand's most magical festival! Book your hotel now for the full moon celebration.