Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong is a traditional ceremony in Thailand dating from a long time ago. It is the most colorful festival held around the middle of 11th and the middle of 12th lunar month. It is when the tide level is highest and the moon is brightest, making rivers clear and beautifully scenic for lantern floating.
In the past, Loy Krathong was called Chong Pa Rieng – the lantern floating ceremony of Brahmanism to worship Gods: Siva, Vishnu and Brahma. When Buddhist was adopted into Thailand, the festival was celebrated to honor Buddha’s footprint on Nammathanati River beach in India. Literally, “Loy” means “to float” and “Krathong” refers to lotus shaped container made from banana leaves used for holding food, offerings and lighted candles. On the night of the full moon day, people gather by the bank of canals and rivers, light candles and joss sticks, make a silent wish and let receptacle float away. They watch the containers drifting along the current and hope the candles will not go out. The candlelight is believed to symbol longevity, fulfillment of wishes and release from sins.
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