The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) warmly invites global travelers to experience the beauty and cultural richness of the Loi Krathong Festival 2024. Known as the ‘Festival of Lights,’ this annual celebration occurs during the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month, falling this year on Friday, November 15. The festival brings communities together nationwide to honor the goddess of water, releasing misfortune and embracing positivity by floating intricately decorated krathongs on rivers, canals, and lakes.

Major Celebration Highlights

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival

Dates: November 8-17, 2024
Location: Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai

Step into history at the Sukhothai Historical Park, where the festival is celebrated with breathtaking grandeur. Inspired by the age-old tale of Nang Nopphamat and King Ramkhamhaeng’s inscription, the event features thousands of lanterns illuminating the ancient ruins. Visitors can enjoy traditional parades, cultural performances, and nightly firework displays. Floating krathongs on serene ponds under moonlight creates a magical atmosphere, making this one of Thailand’s most iconic celebrations.

Loi Krathong Festival at Phadung Krung Kasem Canal

Dates: November 13-16, 2024 (16:00-22:00 Hrs.)
Location: Phadung Krung Kasem Canal, near Hua Lamphong, Bangkok

Under the theme ‘Amazing Night of Lights,’ this event showcases five unique Thai traditions, including Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Festival and Tak’s 1,000 Lantern Procession. Highlights include a nightly ‘Lighting Illumination Show,’ workshops on biodegradable krathong crafting, traditional Thai music and dance, and eco-friendly activities. Guests can even experience the festival in the Metaverse, blending tradition with modern technology.

Somma Nam Khuen Peng Seng Prathip Mueang Roi Et

Dates: November 14-15, 2024
Location: Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park, Roi Et

This unique event features a joint ceremony with representatives from five ASEAN nations, a mesmerizing light and sound show on a water screen, and traditional Thai music and dance performances. Visitors can participate in krathong-making contests and witness the cultural exchange between neighboring countries.

Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Festival

Dates: November 14-17, 2024
Location: Chiang Mai Municipal Areas, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Festival brings vibrant celebrations to the northern city with its grand krathong contest, traditional Lanna lantern competition, and krathong sai ceremony. Thousands of lanterns and candles illuminate the city, creating a captivating cultural spectacle. Visitors can explore local markets, taste authentic northern Thai cuisine, and immerse themselves in Chiang Mai’s rich traditions.

Loi Krathong Kap Kluai Mueang Mae Klong

Dates: November 15-17, 2024
Location: Wat Phummarin Kudi Thong and King Rama II Memorial Park, Amphawa, Samut Songkhram

This eco-conscious celebration emphasizes sustainability, with krathongs crafted from banana stems. Guests can enjoy cultural performances, processions, and the serene experience of floating krathongs on the Mae Klong River, all while supporting TAT’s responsible tourism initiatives.

Tak’s Loi Krathong Sai Festival

Dates: November 15-18, 2024
Location: 200th Anniversary Rattanakosin Memorial Bridge, Tak

Tak’s unique festival along the Ping River showcases a ‘1,000 Lantern Procession’ and royal boat parades. Nightly almsgiving ceremonies, fireworks displays, and traditional markets add to the festive ambiance. Guests can participate in cultural crafts and enjoy local cuisine while witnessing the breathtaking lantern displays.

Cultural Significance and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

The Loi Krathong Festival represents a deep connection between Thai culture and nature, emphasizing gratitude to water bodies. In line with TAT’s commitment to sustainability, this year’s events promote eco-friendly practices, such as biodegradable krathongs and interactive Metaverse experiences to minimize environmental impact. Workshops on crafting krathongs from natural materials further encourage responsible tourism.

Strengthening Thailand’s Global Position

The Loi Krathong Festival is part of the broader ‘Thailand Winter Festivals’ series, highlighting the nation’s unique cultural and creative assets. Running from November through December, this series solidifies Thailand’s reputation as a top global event destination. The fusion of ancient traditions with modern innovations attracts tourists worldwide, enhancing Thailand’s appeal as a cultural hub.

Inviting Travelers to Celebrate

The Tourism Authority of Thailand invites travelers to experience this enchanting festival, offering diverse celebrations across the country. Whether visiting historic Sukhothai, vibrant Chiang Mai, or the bustling canals of Bangkok, travelers will find unique cultural experiences that capture the essence of Thailand’s heritage.

Plan your visit to Loi Krathong 2024 to immerse yourself in the Festival of Lights, where tradition meets innovation, and gratitude illuminates the waterways of Thailand.

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