Loy Krathong — The Floating Lantern Festival
Every November, on the night of the full moon, Thais celebrate the end of the rainy season by participating in Loy Krathong. This beautiful festival involves thousands of people creating small containers, known as "Krathongs," made from banana leaves. A candle or incense stick is lit inside each Krathong, and the lantern-like offering is released onto the water.
During Loy Krathong, the participants make a wish as they launch their Krathongs onto the water. It is a common practice to place a strand of their hair or fingernails inside the Krathong, symbolizing letting go of past mistakes and negative thoughts. This ritual is considered a purification ceremony aimed at attracting good fortune in the future. The sight of thousands of flickering Krathongs adorning the water is a breathtaking and spiritually significant experience during the festival.
