Loy Krathong 2024 – The Thai Festival of Lights

Loy Krathong, also spelled Loi Krathong, is Thailand's magical and stunning festival of lights.

It takes place annually on the full moon of the 12th month of the traditional Thai lunar calendar, usually falling in the first two weeks of November. (In 2024, Loy Krathong will occur on Friday, November 15.)

During this time, all of Thailand transforms into a sea of lights.

Illuminated Floats and Sky Lanterns

A unique, spiritual, and magical atmosphere spreads across the country as thousands of illuminated, lotus-shaped floats glide over the waters, and bright lanterns ascend into the night sky under the clear light of the full moon.

Loy Krathong is an important religious festival in Thailand, yet it’s also a vibrant, social event typically celebrated with family and friends.

The festival gets its name from the floating krathongs—small boats decorated with candles, fragrant incense, and flowers—that are released into the water to symbolize the letting go of all negative feelings and thoughts.

In addition to releasing floats, Loy Krathong celebrations also involve feasting, drinking, and lively gatherings. Parades, fairs, and hot air balloons transform the streets, squares, and sky into a breathtaking sea of lights.

Where to Experience Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong is celebrated throughout Thailand, so no matter which province you're in, you can join in the festivities. Whether you’re in a big city like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, or a remote village in Isaan, the entire country is in a joyful mood, especially in areas with rivers, lakes, and canals.

Some regions are particularly known for their distinctive Loy Krathong celebrations and make for beautiful destinations during the festival.

Bangkok: The Chao Phraya River, which runs through the heart of Thailand’s capital, becomes an unforgettable sea of lights during Loy Krathong.

Chiang Mai: In northern Thailand’s cultural capital, the festival is called Yi Peng and lasts for three days, with thousands of lanterns lighting up the night sky over the city.

Phuket: On this popular southern island, the festivities are a bit quieter, but you can watch krathongs floating on the turquoise sea directly from its stunning beaches—a breathtaking sight!

Sukhothai: In Thailand's ancient capital, celebrations are held among historic ruins. Brightly lit ponds and moats transform this historic city, with its temple ruins and Buddha statues, into a magical place.

The Significance of the Festival of Floating Lights

Loy Krathong is a time to express gratitude to the gods, send secret wishes to them, and let go of worries and fears by releasing small, colorful krathong floats.

The origins of the festival are linked to various legends and myths, but it likely originated in India, where small floats were released on the river in honor of a Hindu deity of the Ganges to thank the gods and ask for forgiveness for human impact on the river.

In Thailand, the tradition of Loy Krathong is believed to have begun in Sukhothai and was initiated by the province's king. Since then, Loy Krathong has become a festival dedicated to the goddess Mae Phra Khongkha, revered in Thailand as the ruler of all flowing waters (rivers, streams, and canals).

For couples, Loy Krathong has an additional special meaning: when a man and woman release a krathong together, they are said to be destined to become a couple, if not in this life, then in the next.

What to Wear for Loy Krathong?

During the Loy Krathong festival, it’s common for many Thais to wear traditional Thai clothing. This often includes colorful dresses, costumes, and loose-fitting harem pants in the style of ancient Thailand.

Schools across Thailand encourage students, staff, and parents to dress in traditional Thai attire for the festival, and sometimes, beauty contests are held for all age groups.

Where to Buy Traditional Thai Clothing?

If you’re looking to buy traditional Thai clothing outside Thailand, it can be a challenge. In larger cities, you may occasionally find Thai stores that also sell clothing. You can also visit Buddhist events, where traditional attire may be sold.

Alternatively, if you have Thai friends or acquaintances traveling to Thailand, you might ask if they could bring back a traditional Thai outfit for you.

But if you don’t want to wait, feel free to browse our online shop!

(Photos: Tourism Authority of Thailand)