Loy Kratong Festival
One of the biggest festival in thailand (second only to Song Kran day).Loy Kratong festival happens on the fullmoon night of the 12th lunar month all over Thailand. This festival can trace its origin in India as a form of giving thanks to the Goddess of the river. People all over Thailand celebrate this event by making a wish and launching small vessels (usually made from banana tree and leaves) into the rivers (or even swimming pools). Popular places to go a loy Kratong festivals are Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chao Phraya river in Bangkok.
Here's The United State's first lady Hillary Clinton's description of Loy Kratong Festival in Chiang mai
"Being here in the year celebrating the 700th anniversary of Chiang Mai and the 50th anniversary of His Majesty' s accession to the throne—and being here during the annual Festival of Lights -- makes this visit even more memorable.
Last night, I was able to go down to the Ping river and watch the Loy Kratong festivities. I could see children and families gathered along the banks, launching beautiful banana-leaf and bamboo boats into the water. And as I put a float in the water it occurred to me that, just as families across Thailand are coming together this week to celebrate the harvest and strengthen the bonds of family, Americans are now preparing for our Thanksgiving holiday. For us, it is a time to gather with loved ones and friends to give thanks for the many blessings we have enjoyed throughout the year."
