Loy Krathong – Festival of Light
Celebrated nationwide, Loy Krathong is probably Thailand’s most beautiful and enchanting festival. The word loy (or loi) means to float, whilst krathong are small rafts or baskets. Traditionally made from banana leaves or the bark of a banana tree, the krathongs usually contain a candle, incense and lotus flowers. The candle is lit and the krathong is placed on the nearest stretch of water. It is believed that the krathong carries away bad luck and signals a fresh start and many people make wishes as their krathong gently floats away.
Dates for Loy Krathong
The festival is held on the full moon of the twelfth month of the traditional Thai lunar calendar (which usually falls in November). This year, Loy Krathong is celebrated from November 21st - 24th, 2007.
Origin of Loy Krathong
The precise origin is unclear, but it is widely believed to have originated in the ancient Thai capital of Sukhothai during the 13th century. The festival may have Brahmin origins but has been given a typically unique Thai twist over the years. Coming at the end of the rainy season, it is also believed that the tradition pays homage to the water goddess, Mae Kongkha (Mother of Waters) and the krathongs are offerings to her.
Modern Day Loy Krathong
The festival has evolved to include music concerts and beauty pageants and is another great excuse for a party. Falling during the school holidays, Loy Krathong is also a family affair with parents often helping their children to make the krathongs.
Where to See Loy Krathong
The festival is celebrated throughout Thailand and wherever you find yourself there is almost certain to be a celebration somewhere close at hand. Loy Krathong is particularly famous in Sukhothai, Ayutthya, Chiang Mai and Tak. The Tourism Authority of Thailand website has some very good information about where to view the festivities.
Sukhothai
Old Sukhothai hosts a two week celebration with the ancient ruins illuminated and the ponds lit up by candles. Parades, firework displays and concerts draw large numbers of Thai and foreign tourists with accommodation at a premium.
Chiang Mai
In the north, the festival is sometimes called Yi Peng. In Chiang Mai much of the focus is on the Ping River and the moat that surrounds the old town. In addition to the floating krathong, lanterns are lighted and drift upwards into the night sky.
Bangkok
The Chao Phraya River is the main focus for celebrations with bridges and buildings decked out in bright lights for the occasion. Places such as Lumpini Park with its lake also draw a large crowd.
Thailand’s Beaches and Islands
Many hotels and resorts lay on special celebratory meals and activities for their guests culminating in crowds gathering on the beach to float krathongs onto the sea.
(Photos are from loikrathong.net)
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