Thailand – Loi Krathong – Travel Photography - Thai Festival
Sawadee krup my friends,
This week the wonderful Thai people will celebrate the festival of Loi Krathong. Loosely translated into Engilsh, Loi Krathong means “to float a basket,” referencing the celebratory act of lighting candles on decorative baskets and floating them down rivers.
What is Loi Krathong
Unlike many Western holidays, Loi Krathong doesn’t have a set date, but rather, occurs on the night of the full moon during the 12th month of the Lunar New Year.
Thus, the exact date varies from year to year. Other festivities include lighting sky lanterns, walking around the riverside markets, eating delicious Thai food, and celebrating with friends and family.
For Americans, one might think of Loi Krathong as a South East Asia version of Valentines Day. It’s often a time where you reconfirm your love for your partner, maybe having a romantic kiss as you light your karthong or sky lantern.
There are also some traditions similar to New Year’s where you might include strands of air or nail clippings on your float in an attempt to dispel bad energy for the next year. Or some may place a few coins on their float in hopes of bringing good luck and fortune in the following year.
My Loi Krathong
I was very lucky to celebrate Loi Krathong in the Northeast of Thailand. A few years ago, I spent the holiday with my now wife, celebrating Loi Krathong with the local Thai people of Maha Sarakham.
Please enjoy some of the photos I capture of the celebrations.
My Wife Holding Our Krathong
Celebrations Along the Riverfront
Lighting a Sky Lateran
Floating Krathongs
Firework Celebration
Long Exposure of Riverfront
Happy Loi Krathong
Even if you don't celebrate Loi Krathong, you should take a minute this week to enjoy the bright moon on these cool autumn nights. Maybe even tell your favorite person how much you love them.
all photographs are my original work