Loy Krathong Festival

About

Loy Krathong is one of Thailand's most enchanting festivals where families release beautifully decorated floating baskets (krathongs) onto the water under the full moon, creating a magical sea of lights and wishes. Children are captivated by the lanterns illuminating the night sky, traditional performances, and the hands-on experience of crafting and floating their own krathong. This ancient tradition of letting go of negativity and making wishes offers a meaningful cultural immersion that creates unforgettable family memories.

What to Expect

Expect a festive atmosphere along the Chao Phraya River and at temples throughout Bangkok, with families gathering from late afternoon through evening. You'll find vendor stalls selling pre-made krathongs (traditional banana leaf boats decorated with flowers, candles, and incense) or materials to make your own, cultural performances including traditional Thai dance and music, food vendors, and thousands of flickering lights on the water. The highlight occurs after sunset when families ceremonially float their krathongs while making wishes, and in some areas, release sky lanterns (yi peng style, though less common in Bangkok than Chiang Mai). The atmosphere is peaceful yet celebratory, with a spiritual quality that even young children can sense and appreciate.

Highlights for Kids

• Decorating and floating your own krathong while making wishes under the full moon, watching it drift away with hundreds of others creating a river of lights
• Traditional Thai cultural performances including classical dance, music, and sometimes elaborate light shows at major venues
• Trying to spot the floating lanterns (where permitted) and participating in releasing one as a family
• Sampling special Loy Krathong treats and festival foods from street vendors in a lively, carnival-like atmosphere
• Taking photos with stunning illuminated temples and river scenes as backdrops, creating magical memories of Thailand's 'Festival of Lights'

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive at your chosen riverside location by 4-5 PM to secure a good spot and avoid peak crowds that gather closer to the official floating time around 8-9 PM; popular spots like Asiatique, Lumpini Park, and Benjakitti Park fill up quickly
2. Make your krathong early in the day at a temple workshop or hotel activity so kids aren't rushed, or purchase a pre-made one and let children personalize it with additional flowers; avoid buying too early as flowers may wilt in the heat
3. Bring wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small flashlight or headlamp since you'll be near water in dim lighting; dress kids in bright or reflective clothing so they're easily visible in crowds, and have older children wear glow sticks
4. Consider booking a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River for a less crowded, more comfortable experience with designated krathong-floating time, bathrooms, and seating—ideal for families with young children or those wanting air-conditioned comfort between outdoor activities

Best Time to Visit

Arrive in late afternoon (4-5 PM) to enjoy the pre-sunset atmosphere, let kids explore vendor stalls, participate in cultural activities, and eat dinner before the main event. The actual krathong floating traditionally begins around 8-9 PM when the full moon rises, which is the peak magical moment but also the most crowded. Families with younger children might float their krathongs slightly earlier (7-8 PM) when it's less congested and children aren't overtired. The festival atmosphere continues past 10 PM, but most families with elementary-aged kids leave by 9:30-10 PM after floating their krathongs.

Food & Drinks

Street food vendors line riverbanks and temple grounds offering Thai favorites that kids typically enjoy: grilled satay skewers, pad thai, fried rice, chicken on sticks, fresh fruit, coconut ice cream, and sweet treats like mango sticky rice and Thai crepes (roti). Many vendors sell fresh fruit smoothies and young coconuts for refreshing drinks. For picky eaters, you'll find familiar options like french fries and grilled corn. Popular family-friendly venues like Asiatique have sit-down restaurants with international menus and restrooms. Bring a reusable water bottle as you'll be outdoors for hours; bottled water is widely available but creates waste during this nature-honoring festival. Consider eating a substantial meal before arriving since festival food involves standing and waiting in lines with hungry kids.

Parking & Access

Public transportation is highly recommended as riverside areas become extremely congested. The BTS Skytrain (Saphan Taksin station) connects to river ferries and is stroller-friendly with elevators. Chao Phraya Express Boats run extended hours during the festival. Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) is reliable but expect surge pricing and difficulty getting rides during peak hours. If driving, arrive by 4 PM to find parking at venues like Asiatique, ICONSIAM, or Benjakitti Park, but be prepared for traffic leaving. Stroller accessibility varies greatly—paved areas like Asiatique and ICONSIAM are manageable, but traditional temple grounds with steps and crowds make baby carriers preferable. The riverside promenades get crowded, making stroller navigation challenging after 6 PM. Consider staying at a riverside hotel where you can walk to celebrations and easily return for tired children.