The beautiful Loy Krathong festival will be celebrated throughout Thailand on November 15, with all social media pages posting images of floating lanterns ascending into the sky.

However, this is exactly what will not happen in Phuket, as the floating lanterns are the symbol of the Yi Peng Festival, coinciding with Loy Krathong but celebrated in Chiang Mai.

Though celebrated without floating lanterns, Loy Krathong is rightfully recognized as one of the most enchanting Thai festivals. Celebrated annually on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, Loy Krathong pays homage to Mae Kongkha, the goddess of water, and reflects even older animistic beliefs in the spirits of nature.

On November’s full moon night, Phuketians gather at lakes, canals, piers, and beaches to float (“loy” in Thai) beautiful flower-adorned rafts (“krathong” in Thai) on the water.

A floating krathong is believed to carry away all the misfortunes and troubles of the past months, symbolizing a fresh start and renewed fortune.

A modern addition to the spiritual essence of Loy Krathong is celebrating Thailand’s heritage, from folk music to traditional costumes. Those who have lived in Phuket for a decade or more have personally witnessed this development.

If you are looking for an occasion to put on some beautiful Thai garments of the bygone era, Loy Krathong is your perfect opportunity. Be assured, every single Thai resident of Phuket deeply appreciates foreigners showing respect for their traditions and culture.

If you are about to celebrate your first Loy Krathong this year, here is what we recommend you do:

1. Check out RL Phuket’s social media pages for a list of locations to celebrate the night. Every Phuket sub-district will have one, with the main event in Suan Luang Park often attended by the Governor, and Bang Maruan praised as the most rustic.

2. Make your own krathong at one of the numerous workshops at hotels, local community centers, or even a neighbor’s house. Alternatively, you can buy a beautiful handcrafted krathong from a street vendor to support the community. Please note, Mae Kongkha won’t appreciate any plastic

or metal in the krathong.

3. Rent or buy a Thai costume in Phuket’s Old Town. Be sure to practice your most elegant “wai” and most polite “sawasdee kha/khrap” to shine at the event. If you are a singer, learn the lyrics of the Loy Krathong Song, which is available in English!

4. Join Thais in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom and do not forget to make a secret wish when setting your krathong afloat!

Loy loy krathong, loy loy krathong!
Loy Krathong is here and everybody’s full of cheer!