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Loy Krathong Festival

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Discover the Loy Krathong Festival in Bangkok in 2026, including its traditions, riverside locations and tips for visitors.

Loy Krathong Festival Bangkok 2026: Dates & Guide

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<p><img alt="Loy Krathong Festival" src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/loy-krathong-festival.png" style="height:470px; width:780px" /></p>

<p><strong>What You&#39;ll Gain from This Blog</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>When Loy Krathong takes place in Bangkok in 2026 and what the festival celebrates.</li>
	<li>How Bangkok celebrates, from traditional krathong floating to riverside festivities.</li>
	<li>The best places to experience the festival, including riverside landmarks and public parks.</li>
	<li>How Loy Krathong differs from Chiang Mai&#39;s Yi Peng lantern festival.</li>
	<li>The best Bangkok neighbourhoods to stay in for convenient festival access.</li>
	<li>Practical tips on getting around, festival etiquette and sustainable celebrations.</li>
</ul>

<hr id="hr-toc" name="tableOfContents" />
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Loy Krathong Festival is one of Thailand&#39;s most beautiful annual celebrations, bringing rivers, canals and lakes to life with thousands of candlelit offerings. Celebrated across the country, the festival is particularly atmospheric in Bangkok, where locals and visitors gather along the Chao Phraya River to float decorated baskets, enjoy cultural festivities and welcome a fresh beginning.</p>

<p>In 2026, Loy Krathong falls on Tuesday, 24 November, coinciding with the full moon of the 12th month of the traditional Thai lunar calendar. From floating flower-decorated baskets to exploring illuminated riverside attractions, there are several ways to experience this much-loved Thai tradition in Bangkok.</p>

<h2 name="What+Is+the+Loy+Krathong+Festival+in+Thailand+">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="What+Is+the+Loy+Krathong+Festival+in+Thailand+" name="What+Is+the+Loy+Krathong+Festival+in+Thailand+"><strong>What Is the Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand?</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Loy Krathong Festival in bangkok" src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/what-is-the-loy-krathong-festival-in-thailand.png" style="height:470px; width:780px" /></p>

<p>Loy Krathong is an annual Thai festival during which people release small decorated vessels, known as krathongs, onto rivers, canals and other bodies of water. The name roughly translates to &#39;floating a basket&#39;, referring to the central tradition of the celebration.</p>

<p>Traditionally, krathongs are made using banana tree trunks and folded banana leaves, decorated with flowers and topped with a candle and incense sticks. People light the candle, make a wish and gently release their offerings onto the water.</p>

<p>The festival honours Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water, and expresses gratitude for the water that sustains everyday life. Floating a krathong is also symbolic of letting go of past misfortunes, regrets and negative experiences while welcoming good fortune and a fresh start.</p>

<p>Loy Krathong takes place on the full moon of the 12th month of the traditional Thai lunar calendar, which usually falls in November. In 2026, the festival will be celebrated on 24 November throughout Thailand.</p>

<h2 name="How+Is+Loy+Krathong+Celebrated+in+Bangkok+">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="How+Is+Loy+Krathong+Celebrated+in+Bangkok+" name="How+Is+Loy+Krathong+Celebrated+in+Bangkok+"><strong>How Is Loy Krathong Celebrated in Bangkok?</strong></h2>

<p><strong><img alt="How Is Loy Krathong Celebrated in Bangkok" src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/how-is-loy-krathong-celebrated-in-bangkok.png" style="height:470px; width:780px" /></strong></p>

<p>Bangkok celebrates Loy Krathong with festivities centred around its waterways, particularly the Chao Phraya River. As evening approaches, residents and visitors gather along riverbanks, canals and designated public spaces to take part in the traditional floating ceremony.</p>

<p>Some of the highlights include:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Floating krathongs: </strong>People release small candlelit baskets decorated with flowers onto the water, often making wishes as they do so.</li>
	<li><strong>Traditional performances:</strong> Organised celebrations may feature Thai music, dance performances and cultural demonstrations.</li>
	<li><strong>Krathong-making workshops:</strong> Visitors can learn to make traditional floating baskets using banana leaves and other natural materials.</li>
	<li><strong>Riverside celebrations:</strong> Hotels, restaurants and shopping destinations along the Chao Phraya may organise special dinners and festival experiences.</li>
	<li><strong>Illuminated riverfronts: </strong>Bangkok&#39;s riverside temples, historic landmarks and attractions create an atmospheric setting after sunset.</li>
</ul>

<p>The celebrations take place across different parts of the city rather than at one central venue. Visitors can choose between public festivities, temple-side gatherings and organised riverside events. Specific activities and access arrangements depend on the venue&#39;s programme.</p>

<h2 name="Where+to+Celebrate+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="Where+to+Celebrate+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026" name="Where+to+Celebrate+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026"><strong>Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok in 2026</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok " src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/where-to-celebrate-loy-krathong-in-bangkok-in-2026.png" /></p>

<p>The Chao Phraya River is one of the most atmospheric settings for experiencing Loy Krathong in Bangkok. Several riverside attractions and public spaces are worth considering when planning an evening around the festival.<br />
The following locations have featured in previous Bangkok festival celebrations or offer a riverside setting. However, visitors should check the latest 2026 announcements before travelling, as the final list of participating venues and designated krathong-floating areas may differ from previous years.</p>

<h3 id="1++Chao+Phraya+River+and+Wat+Arun" name="1++Chao+Phraya+River+and+Wat+Arun"><strong>1. Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun</strong></h3>

<p>Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok&#39;s most recognisable riverside landmarks. Its distinctive architecture, illuminated after sunset, creates a beautiful backdrop for the festival.<br />
The surrounding riverfront is worth exploring for its traditional atmosphere and views of the Chao Phraya. Visitors should check the temple&#39;s opening arrangements and any special festival access information before visiting.</p>

<h3 id="2++ICONSIAM" name="2++ICONSIAM"><strong>2. ICONSIAM</strong></h3>

<p>ICONSIAM is a popular riverside destination combining shopping, dining and entertainment. Its River Park overlooks the Chao Phraya and has hosted dedicated Loy Krathong celebrations in previous years, including traditional ceremonies and environmentally conscious krathong-floating activities.<br />
It is worth checking ICONSIAM&#39;s 2026 announcements for its festival programme, timings and any special visitor arrangements.</p>

<h3 id="3++Asiatique+The+Riverfront" name="3++Asiatique+The+Riverfront"><strong>3. Asiatique The Riverfront</strong></h3>

<p>Asiatique The Riverfront combines a riverside promenade with restaurants, shops and entertainment. Its location along the Chao Phraya makes it an appealing option for visitors who want to enjoy an evening by the water alongside dining and shopping.</p>

<p>The destination has featured in previous Bangkok riverside festival celebrations. Check its latest announcements to see whether special Loy Krathong activities are scheduled for 2026.</p>

<h3 id="4++Santichaiprakarn+Park+and+Rama+VIII+Bridge" name="4++Santichaiprakarn+Park+and+Rama+VIII+Bridge"><strong>4. Santichaiprakarn Park and Rama VIII Bridge</strong></h3>

<p>For a more relaxed riverside setting, the area around Santichaiprakarn Park and Rama VIII Bridge is worth considering. Located along the Chao Phraya, the park offers views of the river and the illuminated bridge.</p>

<p>Bangkok&#39;s public parks have featured in previous Loy Krathong celebrations, including designated areas for floating krathongs. Check the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration&#39;s 2026 announcements to confirm participating parks, opening hours and permitted activities.</p>

<h3 id="5++Other+Bangkok+Public+Parks" name="5++Other+Bangkok+Public+Parks"><strong>5. Other Bangkok Public Parks</strong></h3>

<p>Several public parks in Bangkok have previously opened their lakes and ponds for Loy Krathong celebrations. These offer an alternative to the busy riverside venues and can provide a more relaxed setting for the traditional floating ceremony.</p>

<p>However, not every park permits krathong floating, and the participating locations can change each year. Check the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration&#39;s latest list before choosing a park.</p>

<p>If you still have time on your hands, you can <a href="https://www.thesqua.re/blog/popular-beaches-bangkok-unforgettable-day-trip" target="_blank">plan to spend a day at the beach</a>.</p>

<h2 name="Loy+Krathong+vs+Yi+Peng++What+s+the+Difference+">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="Loy+Krathong+vs+Yi+Peng++What+s+the+Difference+" name="Loy+Krathong+vs+Yi+Peng++What+s+the+Difference+"><strong>Loy Krathong vs Yi Peng: What&#39;s the Difference?</strong></h2>

<p><strong><img alt="Yi Peng Thailand " src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/loy-krathong-vs-yi-peng_-whats-the-difference.png" style="height:470px; width:780px" /></strong></p>

<p>Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are two distinct Thai celebrations that often take place around the same full moon in November. Although they are frequently grouped together as Thailand&#39;s Festival of Lights, their traditions and cultural origins are different.</p>

<p>Loy Krathong is celebrated throughout Thailand and involves floating decorated baskets on rivers, canals and lakes. It is associated with paying respect to the goddess of water and letting go of past misfortunes.</p>

<p>Yi Peng, meanwhile, is traditionally associated with Northern Thailand and the Lanna cultural tradition. It is particularly well known in Chiang Mai, where illuminated paper lanterns, decorative displays and traditional ceremonies form part of the celebrations.</p>

<p>The main differences are:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Loy Krathong: </strong>Celebrated throughout Thailand, with floating candlelit baskets as its central tradition.</li>
	<li><strong>Yi Peng:</strong> Traditionally celebrated in Northern Thailand, with illuminated lanterns and Lanna cultural customs.</li>
	<li><strong>Krathongs:</strong> Small decorated vessels released onto water during Loy Krathong.</li>
	<li><strong>Khom loi: </strong>Paper sky lanterns traditionally associated with Yi Peng.</li>
</ul>

<p>In 2026, Chiang Mai&#39;s municipal Yi Peng celebrations are scheduled from 23 to 25 November, overlapping with Loy Krathong on 24 November. Visitors should be aware that sky-lantern releases are restricted in Chiang Mai&#39;s Mueang district for safety reasons. Do not assume that lanterns can be released freely across the city; any permitted releases must follow local regulations and authorised event arrangements.</p>

<h2 name="Where+to+Stay+in+Bangkok+for+Loy+Krathong">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="Where+to+Stay+in+Bangkok+for+Loy+Krathong" name="Where+to+Stay+in+Bangkok+for+Loy+Krathong"><strong>Where to Stay in Bangkok for Loy Krathong</strong></h2>

<p><strong><img alt="Where to Stay in Bangkok for Loy Krathong" src="https://images.thesqua.re/blog/uploads/2026/10/31/where-to-stay-in-bangkok-fpor-loy-krathong.png" /></strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.thesqua.re/bangkok/serviced-apartments" target="_blank">Choosing the right neighbourhood </a>makes it easier to enjoy the festival and explore Bangkok. These five areas offer different advantages:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Riverside: </strong>Best for river views and easy access to the Chao Phraya celebrations. Look around Charoen Nakhon or hotels with shuttle boats to nearby piers.</li>
	<li><strong>Bang Rak and Charoen Krung:</strong> Ideal for boutique hotels, riverside dining and access to Sathorn Pier, with the BTS nearby.</li>
	<li><strong>Old Town (Rattanakosin): </strong>A good choice for staying close to historic temples, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Boutique hotels and guesthouses are common here.</li>
	<li><strong>Silom and Sathorn:</strong> <a href="https://www.thesqua.re/bangkok/silom/serviced-apartments" target="_blank">Silom</a> and Sathorn are great for visitors who want a central base, plenty of restaurants and convenient BTS and MRT connections.</li>
	<li><strong>Sukhumvit:</strong> Best for first-time visitors seeking a wide choice of hotels, shopping, nightlife and reliable public transport, although the riverfront requires a separate journey.</li>
</ul>

<p>For festival night, prioritise a stay near your chosen celebration venue or a convenient transport link.</p>

<h2 name="What+to+Expect+When+Visiting+Bangkok+During+Loy+Krathong">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="What+to+Expect+When+Visiting+Bangkok+During+Loy+Krathong" name="What+to+Expect+When+Visiting+Bangkok+During+Loy+Krathong"><strong>What to Expect When Visiting Bangkok During Loy Krathong</strong></h2>

<p>If you are planning a trip to Bangkok around Loy Krathong, a little preparation can make the experience more enjoyable.</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Arrive early: </strong>Popular riverside locations become crowded in the evening, so reach your chosen venue before sunset.</li>
	<li><strong>Choose natural krathongs:</strong> Look for baskets made from banana leaves, banana trunks or other biodegradable materials instead of foam.</li>
	<li><strong>Check event arrangements:</strong> Organised celebrations, hotel dinners and river cruises may require advance reservations or paid entry.</li>
	<li><strong>Plan your transport:</strong> Expect busy roads and crowded river piers. Use the BTS, MRT or river transport where convenient.</li>
	<li><strong>Dress appropriately:</strong> Wear modest clothing when visiting temples and follow local guidance at religious sites.</li>
	<li><strong>Respect the waterways: </strong>Avoid littering and follow instructions from event organisers when floating your krathong.</li>
</ul>

<p>Thailand&#39;s Ministry of Culture is also promoting environmentally responsible celebrations in 2026. Its guidelines encourage people to use natural materials, reduce festival waste and follow the &#39;one family, one krathong&#39; approach to limit the environmental impact on waterways.</p>

<p>Visitors should also look out for Vijit Chao Phraya 2026, a separate riverfront light-and-sound event taking place from 13 November to 13 December 2026. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the event will illuminate landmarks and historic locations along the Chao Phraya River with creative lighting and visual displays.</p>

<p>Although it is separate from Loy Krathong, its dates make it another attraction for visitors exploring Bangkok during the festival period.</p>

<h2 name="Experience+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="Experience+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026" name="Experience+Loy+Krathong+in+Bangkok+in+2026"><strong>Experience Loy Krathong in Bangkok in 2026</strong></h2>

<p>Loy Krathong offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Thailand&#39;s cultural traditions, from candlelit offerings on the water to lively riverside celebrations. With the Chao Phraya providing a beautiful backdrop and additional light displays taking place across the city, Bangkok is an excellent destination for experiencing the festival.</p>

<p>If you are planning to visit, <a href="https://www.thesqua.re/bangkok/serviced-apartments" target="_blank">arrange your stay </a>and travel in advance, particularly if you want to stay close to the riverfront and enjoy the celebrations without spending too much time commuting.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:20,&quot;y&quot;:2290,&quot;w&quot;:780,&quot;h&quot;:0,&quot;abs_x&quot;:241,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2676}"></p>

Loy Krathong Festival in Bangkok 2026: When and Where to Celebrate

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