Held every year on the evening of the full moon of the 12th lunar month, the Loy Krathong festival is one of Thailand’s most picturesque traditions. Thai people in every part of the kingdom head to the nearest body of water to launch their Krathong (traditionally a raft made of bamboo leafs decorated with a crown of flowers, candles and incense) to thank the goddess of water and also float away any bad luck or misfortune. As part of the celebration, firework displays and fun activities such as beauty pageants, krathong-making contests and concerts normally take place in the evening. This year’s Loy Krathong festival falls on Sunday, November 17.
Due to the period of mourning following the passing of the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, Somdet Phra Sangharaja Sakolmahasanghaparinayaka, this year’s festival will be a slightly quieter affair but will still feature the beautiful sight of hundreds of people launching candle lit rafts or lanterns in celebration.