Krathongs are awesome because they naturally float! Loy Krathong is a real highlight before the end of the year comes around. If you are in Chiang Mai it is a must-see! The best place to go is the Ping River or the Nawarat Bridge, where you can see thousands of Krathongs floating down the river as well as thousands of lanterns floating in the sky.
Payap University hosted a Krathong making activity, as you can see from these pictures. This event was FREE and all of the materials were provided. About 20 to 40 students came and enjoyed making these Krathongs together. For some it was a new experience and for some it is a yearly tradition. In the end every single Krathong looked amazing, and we had a competition and a prize for the student who made the most beautiful Krathong. Some even took their Krathongs and floated them in the pond behind the Payap Library. I can’t say that it’s the most environmental-friendly festival, but it sure is great fun!
KrathongMaterials Needed: banana tree and leaves, small nails or tooth picks, staples, flowers, candles, incense
1. Horizontally cut off a section of a banana tree to use as the base
2. Cut a banana leaf into the same circular shape as the base. Stick it on top of the base using staples or push nails in with your fingers.
3. Cut a long strip of banana leaf to wrap around your float and stick it on with staples or nails.
4. Cut several long strips about 3 or 4 inches wide, fold one at a time, following these steps:
5. Staple or nail each leaf around the base
6. Decorate with flowers, candles, incense as you wish.