Loy Krathong Lights Up Bangkok in November: A Magical Festival of Lights and Tradition

Loy Krathong, an enchanting festival in Bangkok, draws crowds to lakes and rivers as people release lotus-shaped rafts adorned with candles and flowers to honor the Water Goddess. Falling on the night of the 12th lunar month (usuallu in November), the festival symbolizes gratitude for the rice harvest and a cleansing of negativity. Participants float krathongs, letting go of grudges and embracing good luck if the candle stays lit until the raft vanishes.

In Bangkok, various locations host festivities, including Asiatique and Wat Saket. Many a hotel in Bangkok’s city center such as the well-known Jono Bangkok Asok, especially along the Chao Phraya River, organize Loy Krathong events with swimming pool activities and traditional dances. Notably, most of these hotels offer unique experiences with dinners and beautiful fireworks that light up the skies.

Popular parks like Lumpini Park and Benjasiri Park also host Krathong floating. The festival’s significance extends beyond Bangkok, with Chiang Mai hosting the Yee Peng Festival for lantern experiences. While hotels play a role in Loy Krathong celebrations, traditional krathongs, crafted from various materials, remain a centerpiece of the festival’s cultural richness.