Thailand’s Most Romantic Lovers’ Night: The “Loy Krathong” Festival Illuminates the Chao Phraya River with Lanterns

The Thai Loy Krathong Festival is held on the night of the 12th full moon of the lunar calendar, usually in November in the Gregorian calendar. This year’s “2013 Loy Krathong Festival” will take place on November 17. The primary purpose of the Loy Krathong rituals is to recognize the river as a vital source of abundance for all living things, while also expressing gratitude for the teachings of the Buddha.

 

The Thai name for the festival, “Loy Krathong,” has “Loy” meaning to float or drift—whether on water or through the sky—and “Krathong” referring to the lantern itself. These lanterns, often made from folded banana leaves into small boats, are adorned with flowers, lit candles, incense, and traditional coins before being set adrift on the river to carry away bad luck and bring good fortune. Additionally, Loy Krathong is a beloved Valentine’s Day for local young couples, as they can spend the entire evening together under the romantic glow of candlelight and moonlight.

The Loy Krathong Festival will be celebrated in Sukhothai, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and Tak, among other locations. Sukhothai, home to a 700-year-old ancient city, is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Loy Krathong tradition, and the historical park celebrations there are among the largest in Thailand. Paired with light and sound shows, the festivities recreate the glorious history of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Every visitor can join in this romantic celebration and admire the prosperity of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom.

 

In Bangkok, along both banks of the Chao Phraya River that traverses the “City of Angels,” people of all ages hold lanterns in their hands. As continuous romantic fireworks light up the sky and colorful illuminated boat parades decorate the river, everyone gradually gathers to celebrate together. Travelers can head to Asiatique shopping mall and the areas near the Krung Thep and Krung Thon Bridges along the Chao Phraya to admire the beautiful sight of the lanterns. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner by the river, taking in the dazzling fireworks and the sparkling lanterns on the water, all under the glow of the full moon—a spectacular event not to be missed.

 

In the cool month of November, visit Chiang Mai, an important northern Thai tourist city blanketed in a sea of romantic lights. People gather by the Ping River to release lanterns, but what’s even more special here is the breathtaking sight of thousands of sky lanterns floating in the sky. People in northern Thailand believe that releasing sky lanterns is a way to pray for blessings and accumulate merit for the sacred pagodas in the heavens.