Loy Krathong Festival 2024

Loy Krathong is a Thai festival celebrated annually throughout Thailand and in nearby countries with significant South Western Thai cultures (Laos, Shan, Mon, Tanintharyi, Kelantan, Kedah, and Xishuangbanna). The name could be translated as “to float ritual vessel or lamp,” and comes from the tradition of making Krathong or buoyant, decorated baskets, which are then floated on a river. Many Thais use the Krathong to thank the Goddess of Water and River, Goddess Khongkha or to worship the Holy Buddha’s hair pagoda in heaven in Buddhist beliefs. This festival traces its origin back to India.

Loy Krathong takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, so the exact date of the festival changes every year. In the Western calendar this usually falls in the month of November. In Chiang Mai, the festival lasts three days.

Yi Peng is taking place at the same time, with it’s epic lantern festivals.

Chiang Mai Tips:

1. No need to buy tickets or pay. From Tha Phae Gate square along Tha Phae Road, down to the Ping River are all free festivities.
2. Parade along Tha Phae Road is free.
3. Can purchase Lanterns from vendors along the way.
4. Can purchase Krathong’s and release in the river across the bridge.
5. The old city hotels fill up, so book as soon as possible.

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