In 2025, the Loi Krathong festival will be celebrated on the night of November 4–5 across Thailand. This year, as in previous years, authorities have strengthened safety measures, enforcing a full ban on the sale and use of fireworks and firecrackers in 76 out of 77 provinces.
The decision was made by the Ministry of Interior in coordination with the Royal Thai Police and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to protect citizens, prevent fires, and reduce air pollution.
Fireworks Ban: What’s Allowed and What’s Not?
Since 2023, Thailand has enforced the Regulation on Fireworks and Pyrotechnics, which states:
- Sale, production, and use of all fireworks and firecrackers are banned without exception;
- Exception: licensed shows only in designated zones under Ministry of Interior supervision;
- Use of pyrotechnics is banned in parks, beaches, temples, and residential areas.
Penalties for Violations
Sanctions for illegal fireworks use:
- Fine up to 50,000 THB and/or 6-month jail term — for basic use;
- Fine up to 100,000 THB and/or 2-year prison — if injury occurs;
- Parents of minors are fully liable for their children’s actions;
- Unlicensed sellers face fines up to 200,000 THB and confiscation.
Festival Safety
To ensure public order:
- 120,000 police and volunteers will patrol rivers, lakes, and temples;
- Drones and CCTV in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket;
- Hotline 191 and Safe Holiday TH app — for emergency help;
- Traffic restrictions in city centers during peak hours (18:00–23:00).
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Instead of fireworks, authorities and NGOs promote safe and sustainable traditions:
- Krathongs made from biodegradable materials (banana leaves, compressed rice);
- LED and solar-powered lights instead of candles;
- Digital krathongs — virtual releases via app;
- Light festivals — projections, lasers, art installations.
In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, official fireworks shows with permits will be held in secure, controlled zones.
Why the Ban? 2024 Statistics
According to DDPM, during Loi Krathong 2024:
- 87 people injured by firecracker explosions;
- 43 fires reported in parks and beaches;
- PM2.5 levels in Bangkok exceeded safe limits by 5x;
- Over 50 million THB spent on post-festival cleanup.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Nationwide shift to eco-friendly krathongs;
- Growth of digital rituals for youth;
- Creation of "green zones" without pyrotechnics in every city;
- International recognition of Loi Krathong as a sustainable cultural event.
"We’re not banning the festival — we’re making it safer and cleaner," said DDPM Chief Anunat Limakul. "The beauty of Loi Krathong lies in candlelight, not firecracker smoke."
Planning to celebrate Loi Krathong in Thailand? My Thai Home helps you find safe spots, understand rules, and enjoy the festival without risk. Thailand celebrates — wisely, beautifully, and sustainably.
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