In this very special Loi Krathong festival in Sukhothai in Thailand, besides floating Kratongs on the water, local Thais will participate in the rite to worship King Ramkhamhaeng, one of the historic kings of ancient Siam. There will be a sound and light show portraying the ancient and historical capitol of Sukhothai and processions of decorated colorful lanterns, Kratong and Miss Nopphamat contest and a splendid firework in ancient Thai style.

There are various accounts about the origins of the Loi Krathong tradition in Thailand. However given the river-based culture that forms the foundation of the traditional Thai way of life in Thailand, it is widely believed that the origin of the Loi Krathong festival were was the ritual of offerings made to Mae Khongkha, the Mother of Waters in an act of appeasement. Thai people believe that by setting a krathong adrift the krathong, one symbolically casts away grief, misery and ill-fortunes. Coins are also placed in the krathong in the form of offerings. For the romantic at heart and young couples, Loi Krathong in Sukhothai and elsewhere in Thailand is the time to make yearly wishes for happiness and success in love.

Contact Information:
The Tourism Authority of Thailand
1600 New Phetburi Road,
Makkasan, Rajatevee,
Bangkok 10400 - Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Tel: 0-2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: 0 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)