Millions of candles light up the river surface    A roundup of 6 places to join Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival

▲ Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival will be held in November. (Photo / Provided by Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Compiled by HowToTrip

Dubbed by international media as the most romantic festival and a “must-experience” celebration in a lifetime, Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival will take place on November 25 this year. If you want to personally experience this romantic night, here is a list of six major locations within Thailand where you can join Loy Krathong festivities—don’t miss them.

The main purpose of the Loy Krathong ceremony is to understand that rivers are vital sources of abundance for all life, while also expressing gratitude for the teachings of the Buddha. In addition, Loy Krathong is also considered a Valentine’s Day beloved by young Thai couples. Hand in hand, couples head to the riverbanks, and as the full moon rises, countless flickering candles shine on the water as they release their krathongs (floating lanterns) into the river, praying for a better life.

▲ Each krathong carries the small wishes of individuals. (Photo / Provided by Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Bangkok
Date: November 22–25
Along both banks of the Chao Phraya River, people of all ages gather with krathongs in hand, amidst non-stop romantic fireworks in the sky and colorful illuminated boat parades on the water. Travelers can head to Asiatique The Riverfront, near Krung Thep Bridge and Krung Thon Bridge along the Chao Phraya River, to admire the beautiful sight of countless candles shimmering on the river.

Sukhothai
Date: November 22–25
The Loy Krathong Festival at Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the largest celebrations in Thailand. It is widely believed that the tradition of Loy Krathong originated in this ancient city with a 700-year history. Coupled with light and sound shows, the event recreates the glorious past of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Every visitor can join in this romantic festival and witness the prosperity of the ancient Sukhothai era.

Chiang Mai
Date: November 25
Aside from releasing krathongs into the Ping River, another unmissable spectacle in Chiang Mai is the breathtaking sight of thousands of sky lanterns floating in the sky—an unforgettable experience. People in northern Thailand believe that releasing sky lanterns is a way to accumulate merit and pray to the sacred pagodas in the heavens.

Ayutthaya
Date: November 25
Travelers can visit the Bang Sai Arts and Cultural Centre to take part in krathong-floating activities, explore the nostalgic night market by the river, tour the Ayutthaya Historical Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and enjoy various cultural performances.

Samut Songkhram
Date: November 25
The event takes place along the Mae Klong River, near Amphawa, featuring banana leaf krathong-floating activities.

Tak
Date: November 22–27

This tranquil town along the Ping River celebrates this magical moment in a unique and elegant way. Instead of using banana leaves, locals craft distinctive krathongs from coconut shells, filling them with wax and candle wicks, then stringing them together and releasing them into the water—a local tradition known as Loy Krathong Sai.

Participating in Loy Krathong is not just about celebration, but also represents the unity of the local community. This unique creativity is a reflection of the wisdom of the ancestors, offering visitors an unforgettable and special night.