Loy Krathong Festival 2026

What Is Loy Krathong?

Loy Krathong is held on the night of the full moon of the 12th lunar month, at the end of the rainy season, when rivers and canals are brimming with clean, abundant water. People float krathong made from natural materials and decorated with flowers, incense and candles on waterways. It is a way to show respect and gratitude to the water that sustains life.

Origins and Beliefs

The beliefs behind Loy Krathong are layered, and they have blended together since ancient times.

• Giving thanks and asking forgiveness of Phra Mae Khongkha, the water goddess. People thank her for the water they use all year and apologize for any pollution or damage they may have caused.

• Honoring the Buddha’s footprint on the bank of the Namada River, according to Buddhist tradition.

• Floating away sorrow, grief and anger so you can start fresh with a lighter heart. Some people put clippings of nails or hair in the krathong as a symbol of letting go of what is not good.

• Roots in older water-and-fire rituals found in many Asian cultures, such as the lamp-floating ceremony in India.

The best-known story is that of Nang Noppamas, a consort of the king of Sukhothai. She is said to have made a lotus-shaped krathong as an offering to the king. Historians point out that this story comes from the “Nang Noppamas” text, which was compiled in the Rattanakosin period. It is a legend passed down over generations, not something confirmed by solid historical evidence. That does not diminish its beauty, and Sukhothai is still regarded as one of the key cities of the tradition.

A Good Krathong Is One That Doesn’t Harm the Water

A tradition that began with thanking the river should not leave a burden on it. Many organizations now encourage biodegradable krathong made from natural materials, such as:

• Banana trunk, banana leaves and banana stalks

• Coconut husk, or bread (choose types that are safe for aquatic animals)

• Fresh flowers and leaves you trim yourself

Avoid foam, wire, nails, staples and plastic. They break down slowly, are hard to collect, and harm aquatic animals. Other options that mean just as much include a community krathong, an online Loy Krathong, or making a krathong with your family.