What Is the Famous Festival of Lights in Thailand About?
On the day of the full moon in the twelfth month of the traditional Thai lunisolar calendar, Thailand shines in a very special light. The whole country glows, whether in Bangkok or Phuket, with floating torches rising into the sky as both locals and tourists celebrate until the early morning hours.
It is one of the most famous and arguably the most beautiful festivals in all of Thailand - Loy Krathong (also known as Loi Krathong or Yi Peng), better known as the Festival of Lights. The grand celebration takes place every year on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, between the end of October and the end of November. This year, the date falls on the night of November 5th to 6th, 2025. Read here what this traditional festival is about and why you should experience this spectacle live at least once.
Loy Krathong - The Festival of Lights in Thailand
What It's All About
Thailand in Celebration
Locations
Video: Festival of Lights
Excited for Thailand?
- What It's All About
- Thailand in Celebration
- Locations
- Video: Festival of Lights
- Excited for Thailand?
The Story Behind Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong is a very significant religious, yet colorful festival celebrated grandly in Thailand each year. It is not just the locals who value this tradition, but also tourists from all over the world who travel specifically at this time to not miss out on this spectacular event.
There are many myths and legends surrounding the Festival of Lights, so it is hard to provide exact facts about its origins. However, it is most likely that Loy Krathong originates from India and thus has Hindu roots. It is often said to be a thanksgiving to the goddess of the Ganges, celebrated with floating lanterns.
Our colleague Maren was able to experience the Festival of Lights firsthand and was completely thrilled - but see for yourself:
Video: Vacation Guru
All of Thailand is in Celebration
This tradition began in Sukhothai, the former capital and one of the top attractions in Thailand, and is now celebrated nationwide. It doesn't matter in which province, whether in a big city like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, or even in a tiny village - the entire country is in a festive mood during the Festival of Lights, especially in places where rivers and canals are present. The Thais let lanterns ascend into the sky and release lotus-shaped boats made from banana leaves, called Krathongs, into the water, decorated with flowers and burning candles. With these small boats, they honor the river goddess Mae Khongka and ask for forgiveness. Even in neighboring countries like Laos or Myanmar, the Festival of Lights is celebrated grandly.
Special Locations During Loy Krathong in Thailand
- In Bangkok, during Loy Krathong, the Chao Phraya River in the heart of the metropolis turns into a true sea of lights.
- In Chiang Mai, the Festival of Lights is called Yi Peng and is celebrated for three whole days, unlike in other cities. At this time, thousands of glowing hot air lanterns are released into the sky.
- In Phuket, things are a bit more relaxed. However, here you can even let the Krathongs glide directly into the sea from the beautiful beach. Just the thought of how the usually turquoise sea is uniquely illuminated in the dark - incredible!
- In Sukhothai, the former capital of Thailand, the celebrations take place among the ruins. The illuminated ponds and moats transform the historical site with all its Buddha statues and temple ruins into a nearly magical place.
- In Ayutthaya, in addition to the glowing Krathongs, there is also a typical Thai floating market and a parade featuring beauty queens from all over the country.
Thailand Awaits!
Whether you are traveling to Thailand for the Festival of Lights or at another time during the year - a vacation in Thailand is always worth it. If you are now excited to plan a trip to Thailand, take a look at our Thailand offers and discover the breathtaking country in all its facets soon!
Beautiful Thailand
Featured Image: iStock.com/yupiyan