A Guide to Celebrating Loy Krathong in Phuket

Loy Krathong, known as the festival of lights, is one of Thailand’s most enchanting celebrations, held under the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. If you’re planning a visit during this festival, understanding its cultural significance and participating in the festivities can transform your holiday into an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to enjoying Loy Krathong, especially when staying in one of Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa’s beachfront suites for couples in Phuket.

What Is Loy Krathong?

Loy Krathong is celebrated on the evening of the full moon of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls in November. The festival involves floating a 'krathong'—a small boat or container fashioned from banana leaves and decorated with flowers, candles, and incense.

Loy Krathong originated as a Thai tradition to thank the Water Goddess for the year’s supply of water and to seek forgiveness for polluting it. Today, it symbolizes the release of negative thoughts and the wish for personal renewal.

Loy Krathong is a time for individuals to reflect on their actions and cleanse themselves of sins and misdeeds. The serene beauty of the candlelit krathongs floating on the water offers a moment of calm and introspection. It is also a romantic time for couples, who often make wishes for happiness together and release a Krathong as a symbol of their love.

Traditional Loy Krathong Activities

Krathong Making

Join workshops that teach you how to make your krathong using natural materials. It’s a fun way to learn Thai culture and prepare for the evening festivities. The workshops often use banana leaves, flowers, incense, and candles to create the krathong, ensuring that all materials are environmentally friendly and biodegradable.

Krathong Floating

The highlight of the Loy Krathong festival is the floating of the krathong. This activity involves gently placing your krathong on a nearby river, lake, or sea and watching it drift away. The act of releasing the krathong symbolizes letting go of negative thoughts, grudges, and misfortunes. It is often accompanied by making a wish for good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

Lantern Release

Although more prominent in Northern Thailand, Phuket also sees sky lanterns light up the night. It is believed to send misfortunes away, clearing the path for good luck. The floating lanterns against the night sky make for an enchanting sight.

Cultural Performances and Thai Food

Enjoy traditional dance shows, music performances, and other festive activities that often accompany the festival. Sampling traditional Thai dishes from street vendors or local restaurants adds to the memorable Loy Krathong experience.

Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Phuket

Popular beaches like Patong Beach will have grand celebrations with live music and performances, ideal for those looking for a lively festival experience. Meanwhile, beaches like Kata and Karon offer more family-oriented festivities, perfect for enjoying the festival at a quieter pace.

Locals love public lakes like Nai Harn Lake and Saphan Hin Park to celebrate Loy Krathong in Phuket. Here, thousands of krathongs are launched, creating a sea of flickering lights.

Celebrate at Thavorn Beach Village Resort

If you’re looking for unique, intimate accommodation that’s close to Loy Krathong festivities, consider Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa. Located on the shores of Nakalay Beach, one of the last remaining private beaches in Phuket, we are just minutes away from Kamala and Patong. Our 5-star resort provides a tranquil backdrop for a relaxing holiday in Phuket. 

Stay in a luxurious beachfront cottage just steps away from the ocean and enjoy the exclusivity of our private beach. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment at our CHANN Wellness Spa and enjoy a gourmet dining beachfront dining experience for a truly memorable stay. Check out our available rooms and suites.