Loy Krathong Day is one of the most fascinating and popular festivals of Thailand and is celebrated annually on the Full-Moon Day of the Twelfth Lunar Month (November). It takes place at a time when the weather is fine as the rainy season is over and there is a high water level all over the country. The word “Loy” means “to float”, and a “Krathong” is a lotus-shaped vessel made of banana leaves. Loy Krathong is, therefore the floating of an illuminated leaf bowl. But nowadays some krathongs are made of coloured paper rather than banana leaves. A krathong usually contains a candle, three joss sticks, some flowers and coins. The history and meaning of the Loy Krathong Festival is slightly obscure. Firstly, it is to apologise to the water goddess for having used her water and for sometimes making her rivers and canals dirty. Secondly, it is to offer flowers, candles and joss sticks as a tribute to the footprint of Lord Buddha on the sandy beach of the Nammatha River in India. Thirdly, it is to show gratitude to the Phra Mae Kong Ka or Mother of Water. And fourthly, it is to wash away the previous year’s misfortunes. The ceremony is believed to have originated in the time of King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and to have been started by Nang Nophamas or Tao Sri Chulalak, the Brahman consort of the King. She was the first person who introduced “Krathongcherm”, the banana leaf krathong in the form of lotus blossom that is used on the festival night. The festival starts in the evening when there is a full moon in the sky and people carry their krathongs to the rivers and canals. After lighting candles and joss sticks and making a wish, they gently place the krathongs on the water and let them drift away till they go out of sight. People believe that the krathongs carry away their sins and bad luck, and happiness will come to them. Indeed, it is the time to be joyful and happy as the sufferings are floated away. The festival usually includes a Krathong-making competition, the Nophamas Queen Contest, local games and performances, entertainment programs and firework displays. The Loy Krathong song contributes to the romantic atmosphere of this occasion.
This picture shows the Loy Kathong Festival in the Sukhothai province. It is said to be the best and most famous place to go to for Loy Kathong.
This picture shows people floating Kathong during the festival.
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