Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival

Interested in Thai traditional culture? Then you will absolutely enjoy visiting Thailand between October and November, as numerous cultural events and festivals are held during this festive season throughout the country.
For instance, mysterious Naga Fireball (Bang Fai Phaya Nak) takes place in the bordering province of Nong Khai on 4-5 October 2009. If you prefer beach vacation, Phuket Vegetarian Festival (17-26 October 2009) would be a perfect opportunity to see the unique culture of Chinese-Thai in Phuket. Back to the mainland of Thailand, The Illuminated Boat Procession (29 September – 15 October 2009) is held in Nakhon Phanom province.
However, the most well-known and popular event during this season would be Loy Krathong Festival. Loy Krathong Festival takes place annually on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. It will be on 2 November this year.
"Loy" means "to float". "Krathong" is a handspan-size raft, traditionally made from a section of banana tree trunk, decorated with lotus-shaped vessel made of banana leaves, flowers, candles, incense sticks and coins. Today's version of raft uses specially made bread flowers and may use styrofoam.
During the night of the full moon, many people will launch a Krathong on a river, canal or a small pond to pay respect to the Goddess of Water. It is believed that the Krathong can carry away sins and bad luck of its owner as suffering is floated away and good fortune is often asked for in return. Although it is not a national holiday, various activities are conducted in this festival such as fireworks, krathong-making and Noppamas Beauty contests.
Although Loy Krathong is celebrated across the country now, it was originally started in the ancient capital of
Sukhothai. Thus the festival held in Sukhothai is the most famous and largely celebrated by locals and tourists every year.
Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
Date : 31 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai
Loy Krathong is celebrated in different ways in Northern provinces of Thailand. Although the belief behind the festival is the same, thousands of Lanna-style hot-air lanterns are launched into the sky instead of floating a raft in the river. It is called
Yi Peng. And
Chiang Mai hosts the largest and most popular Yi Peng event in the country. Once launched, lanterns in the sky resemble large flocks of flying giant fluorescent jellyfish, making the scene unforgettably beautiful and exotic.
Yi Peng Festival
Date : 27 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai
If you cannot make a trip to up-country of Thailand, you have as option to join Loy Krathong events held in Bangkok. There are several venues available in the city center of Bangkok which can easily be accessed by international tourists, including the banks of Chao Phya River and Benjasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road.
Planning to join the events? Arrange hotel reservation with HotelThailand today to secure a room for this busy festive season. Make sure you book in advance as rooms are limited. Great Deals are offered only for this special event of the year!
For further details about the events, please visit Tourism Authority of Thailand website:
Hotels Recommendation :
Sukhothai Hotels Recommendation
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