Each November, as the full moon rises over Thailand, the country comes alive with one of its most beautiful festivals: Loi Krathong. This enchanting celebration, which involves floating lotus-shaped baskets on rivers and lakes, is celebrated across the country, but the festivities in Tak province are truly magical. Here, the serene Ping River and the stunning setting of the Bhumibol Dam transform Loi Krathong into an unforgettable experience filled with flickering lights, traditional music, and an atmosphere of hope and gratitude.
A Festival of Light and Renewal
Loi Krathong, which translates to “floating basket,” has deep roots in Thai culture, marking the end of the rainy season and paying homage to the goddess of water, Phra Mae Khongkha. It’s a time for people to release their worries, express gratitude, and start fresh, symbolized by the act of floating beautifully crafted krathongs—small baskets made from banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense—on the water.
For locals, the festival is a blend of spirituality and celebration, and each krathong represents a wish for happiness, good fortune, or a new beginning. Some place strands of hair or nail clippings in their krathongs, symbolizing the release of negativity or bad luck. When the baskets drift away, it’s a visual representation of letting go, of turning the page to a new chapter.
Why Tak Province is Special
While Loi Krathong is celebrated nationwide, Tak province stands out for its grand-scale celebration and the unique tradition of Loi Krathong Sai. This regional variation involves hundreds of krathongs, made from coconut shells, strung together in long, glittering chains on the Ping River. This tradition creates an endless ribbon of flickering light that stretches across the river, a sight that is nothing short of magical.
The ceremony reaches its peak near the Bhumibol Dam, one of Thailand’s most scenic spots, where the backdrop of the dam and the lush, mountainous surroundings add a breathtaking element to the festival. Here, the river becomes a canvas, reflecting the golden glow of the krathongs, creating a peaceful and awe-inspiring spectacle. Unlike larger cities, Tak offers a quieter, more intimate experience of Loi Krathong, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with the community.
Joining in the Celebration
Visitors to Tak during Loi Krathong have the unique opportunity to not only witness but participate in the festival. In the days leading up to the full moon, locals host workshops where you can learn how to make your own krathong. Guided by local artisans, you’ll be shown how to craft the perfect basket, choosing flowers, folding banana leaves, and setting candles and incense just right. Many locals are eager to share the stories and customs behind the tradition, adding a deeper layer to the experience.
The main event in Tak often includes traditional music and dance performances, and local food stalls set up along the riverbanks offer delicious treats and snacks. As the evening progresses, families, friends, and visitors gather by the river’s edge, holding their krathongs, lighting candles, and saying a quiet prayer before releasing their baskets. The collective sound of well-wishes and laughter, combined with the sight of hundreds of krathongs floating downstream, creates an atmosphere that is both joyful and serene.
A Night to Remember
The Loi Krathong Festival in Tak is a mesmerizing blend of tradition, community, and beauty, offering visitors a peaceful yet profound experience of Thai culture. Watching the river come alive with lights as krathongs float away is more than a visual spectacle—it’s a chance to connect with the heart of Thailand, to take part in a tradition that holds deep meaning for locals, and to leave with your own wish for the future.
For those who wish to experience the magic of Loi Krathong away from the bustling city scenes, Tak provides the perfect setting. It’s a place where the lights, water, and mountains combine to create an unforgettable night under the full moon, leaving you with memories of a celebration that is as serene as it is magical.