Making a wish for Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong, which comes from the Thai words loy (to float) and krathong (referring to the foam tray-like base that carries the offerings), is an annual festival popular with Thais and foreigners alike. The festival takes place on the day of the full moon during the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar (November), around the time river tides are at their highest.  Older generations of Thai Buddhists tend to go the temple in the morning to offer food and alms to the monks and listen to Buddhist teachings. However, it is around sunset that people of all ages flock to their nearest rivers, canals or other waterways to float their krathongs. It is common practice for people to make a wish as they launch their offerings, and many people believe that if the candle continues to burn until it is out of sight, their wish will come true. Steeped in history Many Buddhists believe that the ritual was established to welcome and pay respect to the Lord Buddha on his return from preaching in heaven. Others say it was originally a form of worship of the Lord Buddha’s holy relics and foot prints along the banks of a river in India . Foreigners are probably more familiar with the Brahmin belief that the ritual is primarily to pay deep respect to Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water. During the evening, there are usually firework displays, as well as a variety of traditional or folk performances. These usually take place at temples or community centers. Whatever ‘floats your boat’ Krathongs are available in several different shapes and sizes. One of the most popular is a lotus-shaped krathong made of banana leaves artistically folded and glued to a slice of trunk from a banana plant. The dark green color of the banana leaves contrast nicely with the paler base, while the addition of flowers, such as marigolds or roses, provides a delightful splash of color. Incense sticks and candles are carried aboard the krathong, which you light just before sending it off. Another popular form of krathong is made of delicate orange, pink, red and yellow paper petals, made to resemble lotus blossom petals. These are more commonly found in urban areas. The paper petals are glued onto a white foam base, however, the government has been trying to educate the public not avoid these kinds of krathong since they are not bio-degradable and are therefore damaging to the environment.