Every November an amazing event takes place in our Kingdom – one that is full of lights, colors and romance... Loy Krathong Festival is when water and love meet.

Everybody in the Land of Smiles celebrates this special day on the evening of the 12th lunar month on the Thai calendar when the full moon rises. At night, every river is illuminated with ornate handcrafted little boats adorned with lit candles and flowers and other offerings. The rivers shimmer with shining lights as they ebb and flow with the tide. It is truly the most spectacular and romantic of traditional festivals in Thailand and perfectly scheduled within our popular high-season.

The word “Loy” means to float and “Krathong” describes a leaf cup, usually made of banana leaves as often seen in the market. People decorate krathong nicely and beautifully with flowers, candles and joss (incense) sticks. People also often cut their fingernails and hair and add them to the krathong as a symbol of letting go of the bad parts of oneself.  

When the full moon rises, they carry their offering towards the nearest river or canal in their area and release it into water following a prayer and wish for good life and good luck. They also pray for bad luck to float away with their krathong and consider it letting go of any grudges, anger or defilements. This day also honors The Goddess of Water a.k.a. Phra Mae Khongkha. Floating a Krathong will create good luck and pay a respect and give thanks the Goddess. The celebration is also related to Buddhism as the tradition honors the Lord Buddha.

When the right time comes, bright, colorful fireworks are shot into the sky to celebrate the night. Most river and canal areas are more crowded than ever but it is completely worth it to be a part of such a proud, beautiful Thai traditional festival. There are also some programs that accompany the festival, which is gaining popularity and interest among Thai people. Beauty contests known as “Nopphamas Queen Contests” are held prior to name a beautiful queen to locally represent the festival.

“Nang Nopphamas” is actually a symbol of Loy Krathong Day (“Nang” means Miss). It's said that, back to the era of Sukhothai Dynasty, Nang Nopphamas, a wife of Phra Ruang, the King of Sukhothai, invented krathong in the form of lotus and other forms for giving to the King, and the first krathong was released to the river according to the King's order. Today, Nang Nopphamas contest has been added as one of the interesting programs of the festival. Ladies will dress up in a traditional and beautiful Thai dress to compete for the coveted local title. In addition to this contest, the krathong contest honors those who create the best and the most beautiful krathong.