Every year on the full moon night of November, Thailand celebrates one of its most beautiful and spiritual festivals — Loy Krathong. In 2025, the festival will be held on November 15 and will become a major event for over 3.2 million tourists and residents, including tens of thousands of foreigners living under the LTR program.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Loy Krathong remains one of the most popular festivals, combining traditions, ecology, and international participation. Its essence is gratitude to Mother Water (Mae Khongkha) for her gifts: water, harvest, life.
What Is a Krathong?
- Krathong: floating structure made from biodegradable materials;
- Traditional: banana stem base, decorated with flowers, candles, incense;
- Eco-friendly versions: compressed sugar, clay, seeds — dissolve harmlessly;
- Banned: plastic, styrofoam, non-degradable materials (since 2023).
Where to Celebrate in 2025?
- Bangkok: Lumpini Park, Chao Phraya River, Ratchadamnoen;
- Pattaya: beachfront, Jomtien Beach, Marine Park;
- Chiang Mai: Yi Peng Lantern Festival — thousands of sky lanterns;
- Phuket: Patong, Karon, Kata beaches;
- Ayutthaya: ancient city — unique atmosphere.
Sky Lanterns: What Has Changed?
The release of khom loi (sky lanterns) is now strictly regulated:
- Allowed only in Chiang Mai: during Yi Peng, by licensed operators;
- Banned in cities: due to fire and pollution risks;
- Digital alternative: AR lanterns in Meta Horizon Worlds;
- Safety: mandatory insurance, designated zones, drone monitoring.
How Do Foreign Residents Celebrate?
Over 28,000 CIS citizens live in Thailand legally (LTR, Elite Visa). For them:
- Participation allowed: you can make and float a krathong;
- Workshops: eco-krathong making classes;
- LTR status: cultural participation counts toward visa renewal;
- Integration: interaction with locals, volunteering, charity.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Growth in eco-festivals with global participation;
- Integration of AR/VR technologies into traditional rituals;
- UNESCO recognition of Loy Krathong as Intangible Cultural Heritage;
- Rise in foreign residents respecting Thai culture.
"Loy Krathong is not just a festival. It's a dialogue between humans and nature," said TAT Director Satchan Trisirivard. "In 2025, we’re making it safer, cleaner, and more inclusive for everyone."
Will you be in Thailand on November 15? Join the celebration! Respect traditions, use eco-krathongs, become part of the magic. Your new life starts here.
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