Imagine a night where the sky is illuminated with glowing lanterns, and rivers shimmer with thousands of floating krathongs—each carrying a flickering candle and heartfelt wishes. Welcome to Loy Krathong, one of Thailand's most magical festivals, where tradition, beauty, and spirituality come together in an unforgettable celebration. If you're planning to experience this festival, this ultimate guide to Loy Krathong 2025 & 2026 will take you through the essential details—from festival dates and the best celebration spots to a specially curated 8-day itinerary designed to help you immerse yourself in the heart of this enchanting event.
Table of Contents
1. Loy Krathong Festival Dates 2025 & 2026
2. Introduction about Loy Krathong
3. Where Is Loy Krathong Celebrated
4. 8 Days in Thailand to Enjoy the Best Loy Krathong 2025/26
5. FAQs about Loy Krathong Festival
1. When Is Loy Krathong 2025 & 2026
Loy Krathong is one of Thailand's most enchanting festivals, celebrated annually on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month in the Thai calendar. The Loy Krathong Thai festival is known for its beautiful floating lanterns, cultural performances, and deep spiritual significance.
When is Loy Krathong celebrated? For those planning to experience this magical event, here are the expected dates for your reference:
◆Loy Krathong 2025 Date – Thursday, November 6, 2025
◆Loy Krathong 2026 Date – Wednesday, November 25, 2026
If you are interested, you can also check more Loy Krathong festival dates from 2024-2030 listed below:
| Year | Date | Day |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2024 | Nov.16 | Saturday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2025 | Nov.6 | Thursday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2026 | Nov.25 | Wednesday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2027 | Nov.14 | Sunday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2028 | Nov.2 | Thursday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2029 | Nov.21 | Wednesday |
| Loy Krathong Festival 2030 | Nov.10 | Sunday |
Since the Thai Loy Krathong Festival follows the lunar calendar, its date changes every year. It is important to check closer to the time for confirmation, as local celebrations might vary slightly depending on the region.
8 days Bangkok - Chiang Mai Yeepeng - ONLY on 5th and 6th Nov 2025!
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12 days Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Sukhothai - Chiang Mai - Phuket
12 days | From $ 2866
4 days Phuket - Daily Loy Krathong
4 days | From $ 880
9 days Bangkok-Chiang Mai-Phuket (Yeepeng Festival ONLY 5th and 6th Nov 2025!)
10 days | From $ 3059
2. Introduction to Loy Krathong
What is Loy Krathong? Loy Krathong is often referred to as the "Festival of Lights" due to the thousands of floating lanterns and candle-lit offerings released into rivers and lakes across the country. The Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand is a time of gratitude, renewal, and spiritual reflection, where people honor the Water Goddess and let go of negativity from the past year.
Loy Krathong Origin
I guess you would like to know about the Loy Krathong history. Actually, the exact origin of Loy Krathong is debated, but it is commonly believed to have started during the Sukhothai Kingdom (13th–14th century). According to legend, Queen Nang Noppamas, a consort of King Ramkhamhaeng, created the first floating krathong as an offering to the Water Goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha. The king was so impressed that he encouraged it to become an annual tradition. Some historians suggest that Loy Krathong has even earlier roots, influenced by Hindu and Brahmanical rituals honoring river deities. Over time, the Thai Loy Krathong has been integrated with Buddhist practices, which symbolize the gratitude for water, the release of misfortunes, and the hope for future blessings.
Meaning of Loy Krathong
What does Loy Krathong mean? The name "Loy Krathong" directly translates to "floating basket," reflecting the core ritual of the festival. The krathong, a small, decorated raft that is traditionally made from banana tree trunks and leaves, carries offerings such as candles, incense sticks, and flowers. As people release their krathongs into the water, they often make a silent wish, hoping to float away bad luck and invite good fortune into their lives. Some also place a coin or a strand of hair in the krathong as a symbolic act of casting away past misfortunes.
Loy Krathong Celebration
You must wonder about how to celebrate Loy Krathong, right? The Loy Krathong Festival Thailand is celebrated throughout the country, with each region incorporating its own unique traditions. Some of the most common elements include:
●Floating krathongs: Families, couples, and individuals release beautifully decorated krathongs into rivers, lakes, and canals, watching as their flickering candles drift away.
●Sky lanterns (Yi Peng Festival): In northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai, the Loy Krathong celebrations coincide with the Yi Peng Festival. Therefore, if you are going to experience the Loy Krathong & Yee Peng Lantern Festivals Chiang Mai Thailand, you will witness the breathtaking spectacle as thousands of floating sky lanterns will be released into the night sky.
●Fireworks and cultural performances: Many cities organize fireworks displays, along with traditional Thai dance, music, and parades.
●Beauty pageants and competitions: One of the most popular events is the Nang Noppamas beauty contest, which honors the legend of the queen who started the Thai Festival Loy Krathong.
●Temple visits and Buddhist ceremonies: Many people take part in merit-making activities, such as offering food to monks and making donations to temples during the Loy Krathong date.
Loy Krathong Story
A well-known legend tells the story of Queen Nang Noppamas, who, during the Sukhothai era, wanted to honor the Water Goddess. She crafted an ornate krathong and set it afloat in the river. The beauty of her creation so captivated King Ramkhamhaeng that he encouraged the tradition to be continued every year. While some consider this story a myth, it has remained a significant part of Thai folklore, inspiring beauty pageants and cultural performances during the Loy Krathong in Thailand.
The Loy Krathong Song
No Loy Krathong celebration is complete without the Loy Krathong Song, a cheerful and melodic tune played throughout Thailand during the Loy Krathong lantern festival. The Loy Krathong song lyrics describe the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, the act of floating krathongs, and the joy and blessings the festival brings. It is commonly sung by children in schools, played in shopping centers, and even performed at public events.
3. Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong 2025/2026
Loy Krathong is a nationwide celebration in Thailand, but some destinations stand out for their breathtaking ceremonies, cultural richness, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re drawn to a historical and traditional atmosphere or a modern and lively festival setting, each location offers a distinct experience. Let’s explore some of the best places to celebrate Loy Krathong Festival 2025/2026.
Loy Krathong Chiang Mai
In my opinion, Chiang Mai is one of the most iconic places, and even the best place for Loy Krathong, as it coincides with the famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival. The sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the night sky is truly wonderful.
Top places to celebrate Loy Krathong Festival Chiang Mai 2025 & 2026:
■Tha Phae Gate – The heart of the festival, which features cultural performances, parades, and vibrant street markets.
■Ping River – A scenic riverside spot where people float krathongs while admiring the lantern-lit sky.
■Wat Phan Tao & Wat Chedi Luang – Historic temples where Buddhist monks hold ceremonies, offering a peaceful way to experience the festival.
■Yi Peng Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival (CAD) – This special event (held just outside the city) is one of the most breathtaking experiences in Thailand, where visitors release hundreds of sky lanterns at once to create a mesmerizing golden glow against the night sky during the Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Festival.
If you're captivated by spirituality and visual grandeur, be sure not to miss the Chiang Mai Loy Krathong to witness both floating krathongs and sky lanterns in one breathtaking celebration.
Loy Krathong Bangkok
As the bustling capital, Bangkok offers a grand, city-wide celebration that is filled with fireworks, cultural performances, and riverside events. The city's modern skyline and historic temples provide a striking contrast, therefore, you will find the Loy Krathong Festival Bangkok both traditional and contemporary.
Where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok 2025 & 2026:
■Lumpini Park – The best place for Loy Krathong in Bangkok, and a peaceful green space where families and couples gather to float krathongs on the lake. The Lumpini Park Loy Krathong is one of the highlights of the Loy Krathong celebrations in Bangkok.
■Asiatique The Riverfront – A lively venue that is characterized by cultural shows and vibrant night markets.
■Chao Phraya River – Floating a krathong here, with the backdrop of Wat Arun and luxury dinner cruises, you will feel the Loy Krathong Chao Phraya a mesmerizing experience.
■ICONSIAM – A modern riverfront shopping complex that hosts impressive Loy Krathong performances.
For those who want to enjoy a dynamic and festive Loy Krathong with a mix of city lights, riverside elegance, and cultural traditions, Bangkok Loy Krathong is an excellent choice.
Loy Krathong Sukhothai
Sukhothai is the birthplace of Loy Krathong, making it one of the most authentic and culturally rich places to celebrate. The Loy Krathong Festival Sukhothai lasts several days, featuring historical performances, traditional music, and candle-lit temple ruins.
Best places for Sukhothai Loy Krathong 2025 & 2026:
■Sukhothai Historical Park – The most famous festival site, where ancient temples glow under thousands of lanterns. You can enjoy the light shows, beauty pageants, and fireworks at the Sukhothai Historical Park Loy Krathong.
■Yom River – A quieter alternative for floating krathongs in a more intimate setting.
■Sukhothai City Center – Streets come alive with parades, food stalls, and cultural exhibitions, creating a festive local atmosphere for the Loy Krathong in Sukhothai.
Anyone seeking a deeply historical and traditional Loy Krathong experience will find Loy Krathong Festival Sukhothai Thailand uniquely enchanting and culturally immersive.
Loy Krathong Phuket
Phuket offers a coastal take on Loy Krathong, where you will see Loy Krathong floating on the waves of the Andaman Sea instead of rivers. The Loy Krathong Festival Phuket is more laid-back yet still vibrant, with beachside celebrations creating a romantic and picturesque setting.
Best places to celebrate Loy Krathong in Phuket 2025 & 2026:
■Patong Beach & Kata Beach – Popular beaches where people gather to release krathongs into the ocean under the moonlight during the Loy Krathong Festival in Phuket.
■Saphan Hin Park – A lakeside venue with traditional performances and food markets, offering a local feel.
■Wat Chalong – One of Phuket's most important temples, where you can join Buddhist ceremonies before floating your krathongs.
You will love Phuket's tranquil yet festive Loy Krathong celebrations if you appreciate a serene and scenic festival by the sea.
Loy Krathong Pattaya
Pattaya Loy Krathong is vibrant and lively, blending traditional rituals with entertainment and beachside festivities. Known for its energetic nightlife, the city brings a festive and colorful spin to the celebration.
Top spots for Loy Krathong Festival Pattaya 2025 & 2026:
■Pattaya Beach – The main event area and the best place to celebrate Loy Krathong Festival Pattaya, featuring live music, fireworks, and beachfront krathong floating.
■Lan Pho Naklua Park – A family-friendly location which offers a relaxed atmosphere and cultural performances.
■Mabprachan Reservoir – A quieter, more traditional site where locals celebrate with rituals passed down through generations.
For travelers who enjoy a mix of fun, excitement, and cultural traditions, Pattaya offers a lively yet meaningful Loy Krathong experience.
Apart from these places to celebrate Loy Krathong Thailand, Loy Krathong Ayutthaya, Loy Krathong Koh Samui, Loy Krathong Festival Krabi, and Hua Hin Loy Krathong are also worth experiencing. No matter where you choose to take part, the Loy Krathong festiva's magic—floating krathongs, shimmering candlelight, and heartfelt wishes—will leave you with unforgettable memories. Leave us a message about where you would like to go during the Loy Krathong Festival of light in 2025 & 2026.
4. Recommended Thailand 8 Day Itinerary to Enjoy the Best Loy Krathong Thai in 2025
-Days: 8 (Customizable)
- Available: Only on 5th and 6th November 2025
-Quick Access>>>8 Days Bangkok - Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival Tour
Experience the magic of Thailand with this 8-day journey through Bangkok and Chiang Mai during the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival in November. Explore Bangkok's vibrant floating markets, grand temples, and the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya before heading north to Chiang Mai, where you’ll immerse yourself in rich Lanna culture. Witness the sky light up with thousands of lanterns, take part in traditional Thai celebrations, and enjoy unforgettable moments at an ethical elephant sanctuary, a local cooking class, and more. This 8 day Thailand itinerary blends history, culture, and festivity to offer you a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience and a memorable Loy Krathong time in Thailand.
Highlights of the Thailand 8 Day Tour
●Release Loy Krathong floating lantern into the sky to honor Phra Ket Kao Jura Mani and dispel bad luck and misfortune.
●Embark on a scenic Chao Phraya River cruise while enjoying a delightful buffet lunch.
●Immerse yourself in the best of Lanna culture during the unforgettable Yi Peng Lantern Festival.
●Step back in time and explore the rich history of the Ayutthaya dynasty, a must-see for history lovers.
●Attend a hands-on cooking class to experience the thrill of being a Thai chef and master the art of authentic Thai cooking.
●Bargain like a local at the century-old Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and experience its lively atmosphere.
Overviews of the Thailand Itinerary 8 Days
| Day | Things to Do | Where to Stay |
| Day 1 | Arrival in Bangkok | Bangkok Century Park Hotel |
| Day 2 (Bangkok) | Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Long-tail Boat Ride, Wat Pho, The Royal Grand Palace | Bangkok Century Park Hotel |
| Day 3 (Ayutthaya & Bangkok) | Ayutthaya History Park, Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat, Roti Sai Mai, Chao Phraya River Cruise | Bangkok Century Park Hotel |
| Day 4 (Chiang Mai) | Chiang Mai Street Food Experience | Amora Hotel Tapae Chiang Mai |
| Day 5 (Chiang Mai) | Wat Pra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Warorot Market, Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival | Amora Hotel Tapae Chiang Mai |
| Day 6 (Chiang Mai) | Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Doi Suthep Mountain, Wat Phra That | Amora Hotel Tapae Chiang Mai |
| Day 7 (Chiang Mai) | Thai Cooking Class | Amora Hotel Tapae Chiang Mai |
| Day 8 | Departure | / |
Detailed Itinerary of 8 Days in Thailand
●Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
-Private guide pickup at the airport & hotel transfer.
-Complimentary local SIM card with unlimited 5G Internet & free international calls.
●Day 2: Floating Market & Bangkok Temples
-Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand's most famous floating market.
-Ride a long-tail boat through the market village.
-Explore Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) & Grand Palace (Emerald Buddha), both of which are Bangkok's iconic temples.
●Day 3: Ayutthaya & River Cruise
-Discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand's former capital.
-Visit famous temples: Wat Yai Chaimongkol & Wat Mahathat (Buddha head in tree roots).
-Taste Roti Sai Mai (Thai candy floss).
-Enjoy a luxury Chao Phraya River cruise back to Bangkok with a buffet lunch and riverside views.
●Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai & Foodie Tour
-Fly to Chiang Mai, a cultural gem in northern Thailand.
-Explore and taste local street food on a guided foodie tour.
●Day 5: Yee Peng Lantern Festival
-Visit Chiang Mai's historic temples: Wat Pra Singh & Wat Chedi Luang.
-Delve into the Warorot Market to explore local people's lives in northern Thailand.
-Experience the Chiang Mai CAD Yi Peng Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival on this Loy Krathong day, releasing float lanterns into the sky, enjoying cultural performances & unlimited Lanna-style food, and participating in meditation & traditional celebrations.
●Day 6: Elephant Sanctuary & Doi Suthep
-Spend a half-day at an ethical Elephant Sanctuary to feed, bathe, interact with free-roaming elephants, and learn about these rescued elephants in traditional Karen attire.
-Visit Doi Suthep Mountain to climb 309 steps (or take a tram) to a sacred temple to enjoy the panoramic city views.
●Day 7: Thai Cooking Class
-Hands-on Thai cooking class at Mama Noi, including a local market & organic farm visit.
-Learn to cook Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Kha Gai, and more.
●Day 8: Departure
-Enjoy your free time before your guide transfers you to the airport for your onward flight.
This 8 days Thailand itinerary will take you to explore Thailand's rich heritage and vibrant festivals. With highlights like the Chiang Mai Loy Krathong & Yee Peng Lantern Festivals, along with unique cultural experiences, this trip promises to create lasting memories. Join us to customize your amazing itinerary now if you hope to be part of a magical celebration!
5. FAQs About Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong captivates both locals and visitors with its floating lanterns, traditional performances, and deep cultural significance. As one of Thailand's most anticipated celebrations, it raises many questions among travelers who are eager to experience its charm. Here are some commonly asked questions to help you better understand this enchanting Loy Krathong lantern festival.
Q1: Why is Loy Krathong celebrated?
Loy Krathong is celebrated to express gratitude to the Goddess of Water (Phra Mae Khongkha) for providing life-sustaining water and to seek forgiveness for polluting water sources. It is also a time for letting go of past misfortunes, making wishes for the future, and honoring Thai traditions - this is also what is Loy Krathong festival all about.
Q2: Who celebrates Loy Krathong?
Loy Krathong is primarily celebrated by Thai people across the country. However, due to its beauty and cultural significance, many tourists and expatriates also take part. The festival is also observed in neighboring countries with cultural ties to Thailand, such as Laos and Myanmar.
Q3: How to pronounce Loy Krathong?
The Loy Krathong pronunciation is "Loy Kra-tong" (ลอยกระทง), with "Loy" meaning "to float" and "Krathong" referring to the small floating vessel. The emphasis is on the second syllable: "Kra-TONG".
Q4: How to make a Loy Krathong float?
A traditional Loy Krathong basket is made by natural materials such as banana leaves, banana trunk slices, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. Here's how to make one:
-Cut a round slice of the banana trunk as the base.
-Fold and pin banana leaves around the edges in a lotus pattern.
-Decorate with flowers (e.g., marigolds, orchids, or lotus flowers).
-Place a candle and three incense sticks in the center.
-Optionally, add coins, personal wishes, or even strands of hair/nail clippings to symbolize letting go of negativity.
Q5: How to say happy Loy Krathong in Thai?
In Thai, for the happy Loy Krathong wishes, you can say:
สุขสันต์วันลอยกระทง (Sùk-sǎn wan Loy Krathong) – "Happy Loy Krathong Day!"
Alternatively, you can also say:
สุขสันต์เทศกาลลอยกระทง (Sùk-sǎn thêet-sà-gaan Loy Krathong) – "Happy Loy Krathong Festival!"
Q6: Is Loy Krathong a public holiday?
No, Thai holiday Loy Krathong is not a public holiday. However, it is widely celebrated, and many schools, businesses, and local organizations hold special Loy Krathong activities for the occasion.
Q7: What countries celebrate Loy Krathong?
While Thailand is the main country that celebrates Loy Krathong, similar traditions exist in Laos, where it is known as "Boun That Luang", Myanmar which is celebrated as "Tazaungdaing Festival", Cambodia with a similar floating festival called "Bon Om Touk" (Water Festival), and some Thai communities in Malaysia and Singapore also hold Loy Krathong celebrations.
Q8: What does Loy Krathong celebrate?
The festival Krathong celebrates gratitude, renewal, and spiritual cleansing. It is an opportunity to pay respect to water spirits, let go of bad luck, and welcome good fortune for the coming year.
Q9: What is the purpose of Loy Krathong?
The Loy Krathong traditions serve multiple purposes: thanking the rivers and water spirits for their blessings, symbolizing renewal by releasing past misfortunes, making wishes for good luck, happiness, and prosperity, and honoring Thai cultural heritage through traditional dances, music, and celebrations.
Q10: What is the difference between Yi Peng and Loy Krathong?
Both the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festival are traditional Thailand lantern festivals that are celebrated around the same time, but they are distinct festivals:
| Feature | Loy Krathong | Yi Peng |
| Main Activity | Floating krathongs on water | Releasing sky lanterns (khom loi) |
| Location | Nationwide in Thailand | Mostly in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand |
| Symbolism | Letting go of bad luck via water | Sending wishes to the sky for blessings |
| Traditional Influence | Sukhothai Kingdom | Lanna (Northern Thai) culture |
You can enjoy both Yi Peng and Loy Krathong lantern Festival when traveling to Chiang Mai, where you will be shocked by the stunning sight of sky lanterns floating alongside krathongs on the river.
What We'd Like to Say
Loy Krathong is more than just a festival; it's a mesmerizing fusion of Thai tradition, gratitude, and hope for the future. Whether you find yourself releasing a krathong into the water under the full moon, marveling at the glowing sky lanterns of Yi Peng in Chiang Mai, or indulging in Thailand's festive atmosphere, this celebration offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your journey and witness the magic of Loy Krathong—one lantern, one wish, and one extraordinary night at a time.