Loy Krathong Festival
Loy Krathong is the most beautiful and romantic annual holiday in Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. One of the most popular family holidays. It is celebrated on the day of the November full moon after sunset. In 2023, the celebration will be on November 27 in all cities and towns.
"Loy" means to float, and "krathong" is a boat made of banana leaves, flowers and decorated with candles and incense. Nowadays, such boats are also made of bread so as not to harm the environment. You can make a krathong yourself or buy it from merchants - the cost depends on the size and complexity of the product.
When darkness falls, all residents go to the lakes to launch these boats into the water and release all the negativity with them into the past. A lit candle symbolizes the light of Buddha's teaching, and the ritual itself is cleansing from grievances, failures, bad thoughts and the opportunity to start life with a clean slate. In addition, in this way, locals pay tribute to the Goddess of Water. It is believed that after the Loy Krathong holiday, the rainy season ends in Phuket and the "high" season begins.
Thais put cut nails and a small tuft of their hair into the krathong – as a symbol of the “bad self”, together with the krathong, all the bad will go into the water. Before immersing it in the water, it is customary to make the brightest wishes concerning family and love.
Sometimes you can see not only boats, but also lanterns, which also fly towards cherished desires. But in many areas, the launch of lanterns is prohibited and stands warn of administrative liability for violating the ban.
It is believed that all wishes made during this holiday will definitely come true. Therefore, I recommend not to miss it if you find yourself in Phuket on this magical night.
Where will the main events take place in 2023:
- Karon - by the lake in the northern part of the beach;
- Nai Harn - lake;
- Chalong - near the dam, lake near Wat Chalong temple;
- Katu - dam, fitness park;
- Bang Tao - Lagoon;
- Phuket Town – Sapanhin and Rama IX Parks.
Many hotels will also have festive events, the program can be clarified at the reception.
