Loy Krathong, the festival of lights

It's one of the most beautiful festivals in Thailand. With Brahmanic origins, Loy Krathong is also known as the Festival of Lights. On this occasion, thousands of floating offerings illuminated by candles drift over the country's waters. If you happen to be in Thailand at the same time, you can't miss this enchanting tradition! Discover everything you need to know about Loy Krathong…

A festival inspired by the Hindu festival of Diwali

Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights, owes its origins to King Phra-Ruang and his royal concubine, Nang Nopphama, under the Sukhothai kingdom. Inspired by the Hindu festival of Diwali, this celebration honors the goddess of water. While in India, homage is paid to the goddess of the Ganges, in Thailand, its equivalent, known as Phra Mae Khongkha, is revered. The festival, originally Brahmanic, was later adapted by Thai Buddhists. In writings from King Rama IV dating back to 1863, it became a ceremony in honor of the Buddha.

Since then, Loy Krathong has been celebrated every year on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. On this date and throughout the country, especially on riverbanks, near waterways, and by the sea, Thais gather to implore Buddha and ask for his mercy. Beyond the religious aspect, Loy Krathong also marks the end of the rainy season.

Lanterns and floating offerings

To honor Buddha, Thais create their own offerings. These are the famous krathong, small rafts traditionally shaped like lotus flowers (also seen as swans or stupas), made from banana leaves. On these miniature vessels are placed candles as well as incense and flowers. In addition to these three essentials, others add offerings such as hair strands, sweets, coins, or bills.

The offerings are then placed on the water of a river, a stream, or a beach. Symbolically, this allows for imploring forgiveness, letting go of resentments and angers, and offering a fresh start. In short, these offerings are meant to bring luck to those who release them. It is even said that if the flame of a candle remains lit until it is out of sight, our wish comes true.

Where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Thailand?

If Loy Krathong is one of the most beautiful celebrations in the country, it's because it invites the entire nation to celebrate. In addition to releasing offerings, there are fireworks, parades, krathong races, beauty contests, etc. The best place to celebrate Loy Krathong is its birthplace: Sukhothai. On this occasion, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam organizes a superb spectacle of sounds, lights, and traditional dances. In Bangkok, the spectacle is grand due to the presence of the imposing Chao Phraya River. It is on its banks at the Rama VIII Bridge that the festival is in full swing!

Chiang Mai is also a prime location to celebrate Loy Krathong. And for good reason, the famous Lantern Festival (Yi Peng) is also celebrated there on the same day. They are often confused! You can also celebrate Loy Krathong in Ayutthaya, Suphanburi, Tak, Samut Songkhram, or even on the beaches of the southern islands.

Next date to remember: November 1, 2020.

Florine Dergelet