If you are interested in the many festivals in Thailand, one of your highlight would be Loy Krathong. Bangkok celebrates this remarkable occasion in spellbinding style.

Showcasing the radiance of the nation, the festival takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. On this particular night, almost every expanse of water, be it the ocean, lake or a river, glows with myriad lights. The sparkling lights slowly drift across the water gently flickering, dancing and dipping in the breeze as they go, presenting a spectacular sight. 

Romantic occasion

It is during this time of the year that the moon is at its brightest and the river tides at their highest, which consequently creates the ideal romantic setting lovers yearn for. Considered the most magnificent of all Thai celebrations, Loy Krathong is popularly known as the 'festival of light'.

While 'loy' simply means 'to float', 'kratong' is the lotus-shaped receptacle that is capable of floating on water. Kratongs were originally made of banana leaves or a spider lily plant and contain betel nuts, food joss sticks, candles, flowers and coins. 

National celebration

On the day of the festival hordes of people gather near rivers and canals carrying kratongs. The main ritual of the festival includes simply lighting candles and joss sticks, putting some coins into the kratongs and letting the current float them away after you make your wishes. 

Although Sukhothai is the place of origin and focal point of the festival, it is eagerly celebrated nationwide including Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai.