Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival Kicks Off in Four Major Cities on the 14th — Alternative Experience at Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Pattaya

▲ Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Thailand demonstrates how to release krathongs (floating lanterns).

▲ The Loy Krathong Festival is one of Thailand’s most important traditional celebrations.

Reported and photographed by Peng Huaiyu / Thailand

While the entire nation is in mourning following the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand has channeled its grief into strength, keeping its tourism sector strong.Thailand’s renowned “2016 Loy Krathong Festival” will take place as scheduled from the 14th in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Tak.According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, this year’s Loy Krathong Festival has taken on a more solemn and respectful tone due to the passing of the King, giving visitors a different kind of experience.

▲ Loy Krathong Festival in Bangkok (file photo / photo by Chong Jue-Zhi)

The Loy Krathong Festival begins on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month (usually around this time in November each year). It is said that the festival originated as a way to pay homage to the river goddess Phra Kone Ka and to pray for favorable weather and peace in the coming year. In addition, releasing krathongs symbolizes letting go of all the misdeeds of the past year, representing a farewell to the old and embracing the new. Thai people craft lotus-shaped boats from wood and set them afloat on rivers and streams. The colorful krathongs covering the water surface create a spectacular sight. At the same time, there is also the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where people release sky lanterns after floating krathongs to invite abundant blessings for the new year.

Since this festival is also a time when couples gather to float krathongs together, many use the occasion to confess their feelings, which is why it is also known asThailand’s Valentine’s Day.

▲ A festive parade in Thailand.

Where to Experience the 2016 Loy Krathong Festival Across Thailand? (Source:Tourism Authority of Thailand Website)

Bangkok
At Santichaiprakan Park in the heart of the Old City, visitors can learn about the history of the Loy Krathong Festival, watch performances by actors in traditional Thai attire and various characters against the magnificent backdrop of Wat Ratchanatdaram, and even have the opportunity to release their own krathongs. Enjoy traditional Thai cuisine and take in the charming riverside scenery. The event will take place from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on November 14, 2016.

Chiang Mai
The 2016 Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Festival will be held from November 12 to 15, with the ancient Tha Phae Gate serving as the festival’s focal point. This year features a massive krathong parade competition, with winners receiving a trophy from the Prime Minister. Other activities include krathong floating competitions, krathong-making contests, religious ceremonies, and a variety of other traditional Lanna rituals — all highlights you can look forward to in Chiang Mai.

Sukhothai
In many ways, this is the spiritual home of Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival. The annual 2016 Sukhothai Loy Krathong and Candle Festival will be held at the Sukhothai Historical Park. From November 10 to 14, from 9:30 AM to midnight, the historical ruins of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom will be illuminated, allowing visitors to enter the park and float krathongs. Additionally, at 6:00 PM each day, 9,999 candles will be lit.

Tak
This year, Tak has planned the “9,999 Krathongs in Tribute to King Bhumibol” event. On November 14, along the Ping River banks, shining krathongs made from coconut shells will be lined up in a row on the water.

▲ Nong Nooch Tropical Garden also offers a view of Thailand’s Songkran (Thai New Year) festivities.

Pattaya
If you’re planning to stay in Bangkok, consider a Bangkok-plus-Pattaya trip. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Pattaya, located 15 kilometers south of Pattaya, spans 500 acres and features an ethnological cultural village. It’s the perfect place to experience traditional cultural events such as the Loy Krathong Festival, Songkran, and elephant performance shows all in one go. The park also has a cooking class where professional instructors teach you how to DIY your own Thai dishes.

▲ A fruit feast at Nong Nooch Tropical Garden featuring Thailand’s abundant produce — mangosteen, wampee, and authentic Thai mango sticky rice — is truly mouthwatering.