Loy Krathong is held on the full moon of November in the Thai lunar calendar every year. The festival celebrates a night of gratitude, forgiveness, and redemption to the River Goddess. Participants float their krathong, made of natural materials: a slice of banana trunk decorated with banana leaves, colourful flowers, candles, and incense sticks. Thai people sometimes add personal parts to the krathong; for example, a few strings of hair, a piece of fingernail, and sometimes coins. It is believed that this ritual averts bad omens.

Loy Krathong is a way to pay respect and express gratitude to the river goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha, for her life-sustaining waters. At the same time, people apologise for polluting the waterways. The act of floating a krathong symbolises letting go of grudges, anger, and misfortunes. It is an opportunity for spiritual renewal and starting afresh. The festival is a joyous occasion marked by illuminated lanterns, fireworks, and vibrant gatherings, symbolising hope, prosperity, and the triumph of light over darkness. Loy Krathong reinforces Thai traditions and brings communities together to celebrate shared values, fostering a sense of identity and cultural pride.

The base of a krathong is traditionally made from natural materials like banana tree trunks or slices of bread. These materials are eco-friendly and biodegradable, ensuring they do not harm the environment. In modern times, some use foam bases, but these are discouraged due to their negative environmental impact. Banana leaves are folded and arranged to cover the base, creating a beautiful green backdrop.
The leaves are folded into intricate patterns, such as triangles or loops, and pinned onto the base using small wooden sticks or natural pins. Fresh flowers, such as marigolds, orchids, jasmine, or roses, are placed on the krathong to enhance its appearance. Some krathongs include additional decorations like ribbons or coloured paper, though traditional designs stick to natural elements. Some people include a
small piece of hair or nail clippings to symbolise releasing negative energy or burdens. Many people make a wish as they release their krathongs, believing that the act may bring good fortune and fulfil their desires.

The release of night lanterns into the sky is a breathtaking tradition often associated with Thailand’s Yi Peng Festival, which coincides with Loy Krathong in northern Thailand, particularly in Chiang Mai. While the two festivals are distinct, they are celebrated together, creating a magical atmosphere. Releasing lanterns symbolises letting go of worries, misfortunes, and negativity. It’s a spiritual act of renewal and hope. People often make a wish or say a prayer before releasing their lanterns, believing that the rising lantern carries their hopes to the heavens. Modern celebrations increasingly focus on eco-friendly materials for lanterns and safe release practices to minimise environmental and safety concerns.

The festival brings people together through the shared ritual of crafting and releasing krathongs. Celebrating Loy Krathong globally would foster cultural exchange and strengthen community bonds, highlighting the importance of unity. Embracing Loy Krathong worldwide would introduce people to Thailand’s rich heritage, enhancing cultural understanding and respect. The festival provides a platform to celebrate diversity while embracing common values. With its vibrant lights, floating lanterns and serene atmosphere, Loy Krathong offers a visually stunning and uplifting experience. It inspires positivity and reminds us to focus on hope and light even during challenging times. By celebrating Loy Krathong globally, we can not only honour Thailand’s beautiful traditions, but also remind ourselves of the universal values that connect us all.

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