Loy Krathong: Thailand's magical festival of lights
Every year, when the full moon night falls on the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar (usually in November), rivers, canals and lakes in Thailand are lit up with thousands of small, decorated rafts floating slowly.
This scene corresponds to the Loy Krathong festival — in Thai ลอยกระทง —, a celebration filled with symbolism, beauty, and emotion that invites us to let go of the old, give thanks, and look toward a new beginning.
In this article, we'll show you everything you need to know about the festival: its history, its symbolism, and the best places to experience this magical experience.
How to get there and find your way around to enjoy Loy Krathong
Although Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide, some of the most extraordinary experiences take place in accessible and well-connected cities like Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Bangkok.
Plan your trip to coincide with the festival date (for example, for 2025, the estimated date is November 6).
Bring the essentials with you: a flashlight, comfortable shoes for getting around at dusk, mosquito repellent, and respect for the local culture (appropriate dress, discreet manners).
Find accommodation as close as possible to a river or canal where the event will be held, so you can participate comfortably. In the morning, you can spend time getting around, and in the afternoon, reserve a spot from which to launch your krathong.
Main activities: krathong floating, lanterns, ceremonies
This traditional gesture is not only an offering to the goddess of water (Phra Mae Khongkha), but also a way to ask for forgiveness, let go of negativity and start over. Thais believe that by letting go of the krathong, bad thoughts, bad luck and past mistakes are also released.
Building or buying a krathongThese small rafts — traditionally made from a banana tree trunk and decorated with leaves, flowers, a candle and incense — symbolize gratitude to the water and the desire to leave negativity behind.
Launch into the waterAt dusk, people gather by rivers or canals, light the krathong candle, make a wish or offer thanks, and let it float.
Lights, lanterns and festive atmosphereIn places like Chiang Mai, the festival is combined with Yi Peng and the sky is filled with flying lanterns (khom loi).
Markets, shows and local cultureTraditional music, beauty pageants, street food stalls and cultural activities complement the celebration.
Nature, local environment and complementary experiences
Celebrating Loy Krathong by the water is an experience deeply connected to nature.
In rural areas, many communities make krathongs by hand and decorate riverbanks with candles or lanterns.
Take the opportunity to visit illuminated temples, stroll through night markets, or enjoy a sunset boat ride while the magical festival atmosphere builds.
Sustainability and responsibility in travel
- Choose krathongs made from natural, biodegradable materials like banana leaves or bread, avoiding foam or plastic.
- Don't leave litter and respect the natural environment.
- Participate in organized events that have a system for post-launch cleanup and cleanup.
- Respect the local rhythm and designated festival areas.
Celebrating Loy Krathong in Thailand is much more than just a visual event: it's a way to join in a collective act of gratitude, renewal, and respect for nature.
Whether you're floating your own krathong under the full moon or watching thousands of lights drift across the water, this experience will leave an unforgettable impression.
Plan your trip in advance, participate respectfully, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of one of the most beautiful nights of the year in Thailand.
Prepare your visit to Thailand with our practical tips!!
Prepare your visit to Thailand with our practical tips. From information on visas and transportation to accommodation suggestions, we will provide you with the essential information to plan your adventure.
