krathong

Krathong refers to a small floating vessel used in the Loy Krathong festival in Thailand and parts of Southeast Asia. Traditionally crafted to resemble a lotus flower or a miniature boat, a krathong is decorated with flowers, leaves, and candles, and often carries incense sticks. The vessel is released onto a river, pond, or canal as part of a ceremonial wish or prayer.

Construction and materials vary by region and availability. Common bases are made from a piece of banana trunk or a raft-like structure fashioned from bread or plant fibers, shaped into a hollow boat or lantern-like form. The surface is adorned with flowers, fruit, or candles, with lotus petals commonly used for symbolism of purity. A candle and several incense sticks are placed on the krathong, and participants may add a personal note or a small coin as an offering.

The practice is part of Loy Krathong, a festival dedicated to honoring Phra Mae Khongkha, the water goddess, and to release negativity, misfortune, or grudges. The act of lighting the candle and incense and letting the krathong drift away is meant to symbolize letting go and making wishes for the future. The festival is often celebrated with local customs, music, and, in northern Thailand, the parallel Yi Peng lantern festival, where lanterns are released into the sky.

Date and reach: Loy Krathong occurs on the night of the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month, typically in November, though dates vary by year. It is widely observed across Thailand and in neighboring countries with Thai communities. In modern times, there is emphasis on using biodegradable materials to reduce environmental impact.