Edited by Anna Popper
On the occasion of Thailand’s most enchanting festival, Loy Krathong, the Festival of Water and Light, Mrs. Vanida Bhaholpolbhayuhasena, Spouse of the Ambassador of Thailand, hosted a Loy Krathong Party at the Royal Thai Residence. This annual event coincides with the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. This year, Loy Krathong fell on 15 November 2024.
The event welcomed an audience of distinguished ladies, including Hungarian government officials, members of the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest (DSB), representatives of the private sector and guests from various walks of life – who had gathered to celebrate this unique festival and learn about its history and meaning.
The celebration began with a warm greeting from H.E. Mr. Phrommes Bhaholpolbhayuhasena, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Hungary, who explained the cultural and spiritual essence of Loy Krathong.
On the invitation of Mrs. Vanida Bhaholpolbhayuhasena, guests participated in an interactive session where they made their own krathongs (small floating flower baskets). This year, the festival placed an emphasis on sustainability, in line with the growing environmental awareness around the world and in Thailand. Traditional krathongs are crafted from natural materials such as banana leaves, stalks, and coconut shells, ensuring an eco-friendly approach that honours both tradition and nature.
As part of the festive spirit, guests enjoyed a sumptuous spread of authentic Thai delicacies and beverages, beautifully presented and adorned with stunning traditional Thai decorations, a testament to the host’s impeccable taste and creativity.
The evening culminated in a delightful surprise when participants were requested to release their krathongs in the beautifully lit swimming pool of the Thai Residence, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. The ceremonial launching of these candlelit baskets is a symbolic act that expresses gratitude and a wish to drive away misfortune, giving the event an even more spiritual meaning.
Understanding Loy Krathong: The Festival of Light and Water
One of Thailand’s most evocative festivals, Loy Krathong was originally a ritual to honour the goddess of water and ask for forgiveness. It is celebrated across the country, and it is very impressive to see entire rivers illuminated by the soft glow of candle-lit Krathongs. The event takes place annually on the night of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, and this year fell on 15 November 2024, coinciding with the Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Festival, or Lantern Festival.
In Thai, the word loy means “to float” and krathong refers to a “boat” or “vessel”. People decorate krathongs with candles and flowers and release them onto rivers, canals, or other bodies of water, symbolizing the act of letting go of misfortune. Believed to have originated in the ancient Sukhothai era, Loy Krathong is deeply tied to Buddhism. In Thailand’s traditionally agrarian society, waterways have always played a crucial role in sustaining communities, crops and commerce. Thailand’s rivers are considered the veins of the country, connecting people and fostering life.
In response to growing environmental concerns all over the world and in Thailand, many Thais are now abandoning the use of Styrofoam and other non-biodegradable materials in their krathongs as these could pollute marine life and ecosystems. Festival-goers are advocating for a return to eco-friendly materials such as banana leaves, banana stalks and coconut shells. With environmental issues at the forefront, some Thais have chosen to celebrate the festival from the comfort of their own homes, releasing their krathongs in garden ponds, pools, or other open water containers to reduce environmental impact. Loy Krathong is always considered as an occasion for joy, gratitude and new beginnings.
Thailand is preparing a proposal to include the Loy Krathong Festival on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
The Spiritual Significance
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, who ruled the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1279 to 1298 and was a devout Buddhist, is credited with inspiring his people to pay tribute to both Buddha and the Goddess of Water, Phra Mae Khongkha. When the krathong floats away, it is believed to carry with it the sorrow and misfortune of man, thus symbolizing release and renewal. Loy Krathong holds profound symbolism. For many, letting a krathong float represents letting go of negativity, including grudges, anger and past misfortune. It is seen as an opportunity to cleanse the soul and start anew. According to tradition if the candle on your krathong remains lit until it disappears from view, you are destined for a year of good luck. If the candle extinguishes early, it serves as a gentle reminder to try again next year.
Whether you attend to enjoy the serene beauty of the floating krathongs or to embrace the spiritual traditions, Loy Krathong is a celebration that leaves lasting memories and brightens the heart.
Personal Note from the Editor
“15 November is a special day for me as it marks my birthday. This year, I was deeply touched when His Excellency Ambassador Phrommes Bhaholpolbhayuhasena, his wife Mrs. Vanida Bhaholpolbhayuhasena and the staff at the Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest graciously celebrated this occasion with me. To have my birthday coincide with the beautiful and significant Festival of Loy Krathong – an event so important to Thai culture – was a wonderful surprise and a truly memorable experience. I am profoundly grateful for their thoughtful gesture, kindness and warm hospitality in including me in this meaningful celebration. Thank you very much!”
Source: Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest
Photos by the Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest and DPA
