Loy Krathong in Bangkok

Loy Krathong takes place on the evening of the full moon in the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November. People float krathongs — small rafts made of banana leaves, folded into lotus shapes and decorated with flowers, incense and a candle — on rivers, canals and lakes. It's a way of thanking the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha, and of letting go of bad luck and grudges from the past year.

Loy Krathong 2026: the main night is Tuesday 24 November. Some listings give the 25th; check local announcements nearer the time.

Where to go in Bangkok

Along the Chao Phraya

The river is the heart of Loy Krathong in Bangkok. The busiest spots include the riverside around Asiatique, ICONSIAM and the piers facing Wat Arun. Expect big crowds from early evening. Riverside restaurant tables and dinner cruises book up days or weeks ahead. See our Chao Phraya River guide and dinner cruises.

In the parks

Lumphini Park and Benjakitti Forest Park let you float a krathong on a lake without the riverside crush — better with children, and calmer for a first time. See Lumphini Park.

At temples and canals

Neighbourhood temples by canals hold their own smaller celebrations, often with stalls selling krathongs and food.

Choosing a krathong

• Buy one made of banana leaves, banana trunk or bread — they break down naturally. Avoid foam ones.
• Sharing one is common for couples and families.
• Add a coin, a strand of hair or a nail clipping if you want to follow tradition — it represents letting go.

Bangkok's authorities collect hundreds of thousands of krathongs from the city's waterways the morning after.

How to float a krathong

1. Light the candle and incense.
2. Make a wish, or think of what you're letting go.
3. Place it gently on the water and give it a small push.

If it floats away well, it's considered good luck.

Sky lanterns: not in Bangkok

The famous images of thousands of glowing lanterns floating into the sky are from Yi Peng in Chiang Mai, which coincides with Loy Krathong in the north. Releasing sky lanterns (khom loi) is restricted in Bangkok, particularly near the airports. Don't plan on it here.

What else happens on the night

Temples and riverside venues often hold fairs with food stalls, music and traditional performances. Some neighbourhoods hold small parades, and many hotels and restaurants by the water run special dinners. It's a festival for families and couples rather than a party — the atmosphere is gentle, with candles on the water and people quietly making wishes.

Practical tips

• Arrive early for riverside spots and plan your way home — public boats stop early, and roads around the river are congested.
• Keep an eye on children near the water's edge.
• Book dinner with a river view well in advance.

For other festivals and when they fall, see the best time to visit Bangkok.