Tourism Authority of Thailand promotes Loy Krathong

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projects the Loy Krathong festival will be bustling this year, with key activities attracting 633,600 visitors this month. Activities are planned in Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Suphan Buri, where the TAT suspended the festival last year due to floods.

The TAT has allocated Bt 20 million to support 8 major events generating Bt 817 million revenue during the last week of November to celebrate Loy Krathong.

In Bangkok, the Delightful Color of Stream will be held along Chao Phraya River attractions comprising Asiatique the Riverfront, the Krungthep Bridge ,and the Krung Thon Bridge.

An illuminated float procession and light decoration will take place from November 26-28 along the river.

At the Sukhothai Historical Park from November 24-28 will be the Dawn of Happiness procession, where visitors can enjoy floating lanterns, a fireworks display, and the Miss Noppamas beauty contest.

Also a Krathong Desire contest will take place along with a light and sound presentation.

The TAT hopes each event will help to promote the destination and the value of Thai culture and history, she said.

The original festival in Thailand was initiated during the Sukhothai period as Loy Pratip or Loy Khom (floating lanterns).

Noppamas (the Sukhothai King’s favorite concubine) created a krathong (lotus-shaped boat) to float in the river.

Thais still pay tribute today. On the 12th full moon of the year, people use banana trunks, flowers, stick candles, and incense to make krathong.

The idea is to ask for forgiveness from Phra Mae Khongkha so that she may take with her all misfortunes.