10 Popular Loy Krathong Festivals in Thailand 2026
17 Sep 202600
siriwat
Loy Krathong Festival 2026 falls on November 24, 2026, but the celebrations are not limited to just one night. Many provinces host events over several days, with activities that showcase the unique character of each destination—from releasing krathongs along the Chao Phraya River and watching traditional Lanna lanterns light up the sky to experiencing time-honored festivities among historic ruins.
If you’re looking for places to visit during Loy Krathong this year, bookmark these 10 popular Loy Krathong destinations across Thailand, featuring photogenic spots, traditional celebrations, and unique experiences that vary from province to province.
Top Loy Krathong Spots in Bangkok
1. Chao Phraya River Cruise – Wonderful Pearl Cruise
If you want to experience Loy Krathong from a different perspective, away from the crowded riverside, a Chao Phraya dinner cruise is an interesting option. The Wonderful Pearl Cruise lets you enjoy Bangkok’s illuminated skyline while passing iconic riverside landmarks as you dine.
One of the highlights of celebrating Loy Krathong on a cruise is seeing the city lights from both sides of the Chao Phraya River reflected on the water. Onboard, you can enjoy a combination of food, music, and open views, making it a comfortable way to spend Loy Krathong night without having to navigate large crowds.
Best for: Those who want to celebrate Loy Krathong while enjoying Bangkok’s riverside views and dinner on a cruise.
Wonderful Pearl Cruise (Loy Krathong 2026)
2. Wat Arun – Experience Loy Krathong Along the Chao Phraya River
Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most iconic riverside landmarks, fits perfectly with the atmosphere of Loy Krathong. During the festival, the riverside and surrounding areas come alive with lights and visitors taking part in this traditional celebration.
For photography enthusiasts, one of the highlights is seeing the Wat Arun temple spire illuminated at night, set against the Chao Phraya River and the festive atmosphere.
Bangkok also has several Loy Krathong celebration areas along the Chao Phraya River. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has previously highlighted several major locations, including Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Rakhang Kositaram, Wat Kalayanamitr, Tha Maharaj, and Asiatique The Riverfront.
Best for: Photography enthusiasts and those interested in Thai temples and architecture.
Top Loy Krathong Spots in Chiang Mai
3. Chiang Mai Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival
If you think of Loy Krathong in Northern Thailand, one of the most iconic images is thousands of sky lanterns lighting up the night sky over Chiang Mai during the Yi Peng Festival.
In 2026, Sky of Wishes is scheduled to take place on November 24–25, 2026, in San Pa Tong District, Chiang Mai. According to the event organizer, more than 100,000 sky lanterns will be released over the two-night celebration, along with cultural activities and performances inspired by Lanna traditions.
The experience goes beyond releasing lanterns. It brings together glowing lights, Lanna culture, and the special moment when visitors make a wish before releasing their lanterns into the night sky.
Best for: Those who want to experience the atmosphere of Yi Peng and witness a spectacular sky filled with lanterns.
Note: Each lantern-release event has its own location, rules, and safety requirements. Be sure to check the organizer’s latest information before visiting.
Chiang Mai Sky Lantern Festival 2026
Sky of Wishes Festival 2026
4. Tha Phae Gate – Experience the Yi Peng Atmosphere in Chiang Mai Old Town
If you don’t want to travel outside the city for a sky lantern event, Tha Phae Gate is a great spot to experience the atmosphere of Yi Peng right in the heart of Chiang Mai.
During the festival, Chiang Mai comes alive with hanging lanterns, candlelight, and Lanna-inspired decorations. The Old Town and areas around Tha Phae Gate take on a particularly lively atmosphere, making it a popular area for visitors to explore and take photos.
One of the highlights is the convenience of exploring several attractions on foot. You can easily continue your visit to historic temples, walking streets, local restaurants, and cafés, making this area ideal for those who want to experience Chiang Mai during Loy Krathong while exploring multiple spots in a single day.
Yi Peng is one of the most important traditional festivals of the Lanna region. The iconic sky lanterns and Pang Prateep (traditional candle-lit offerings) reflect both the cultural heritage and local beliefs of Northern Thailand.
Best for: Those who enjoy walking around the city, taking photos, and experiencing Yi Peng up close.
Updated September 17, 2026: No event schedule has been announced yet.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Sukhothai
5. Loy Krathong and Candlelight Festival – Sukhothai Historical Park
Another Loy Krathong celebration with a distinctive atmosphere is the Loy Krathong and Candlelight Festival in Sukhothai, held amid the historic ruins of Sukhothai Historical Park.
In 2026, the festival is scheduled to take place from November 15–24, 2026. Highlights include illuminated historic sites at night, cultural performances, and the unique atmosphere created by the ancient ruins as the backdrop for the festivities.
What makes Sukhothai special is the combination of Loy Krathong traditions, history, and lights illuminating the ancient city, creating an atmosphere that feels very different from celebrations in Thailand’s major cities.
Best for: History and culture enthusiasts, as well as those who enjoy a nostalgic, old-town atmosphere.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Ayutthaya
6. Maha Loy Krathong Festival – Wat Phra Ram, Ayutthaya Historical Park
Change the atmosphere and explore the historic city of Ayutthaya during Loy Krathong at Wat Phra Ram and Ayutthaya Historical Park.
One of the highlights of celebrating Loy Krathong in Ayutthaya is experiencing the charm of this historic city while exploring ancient ruins and traditional architecture in the evening. As the festival lights illuminate the surroundings, the chedis and historic structures create a picturesque backdrop for photography.
For those planning a one-day trip from Bangkok, you can spend the daytime exploring temples and historic sites, then stay until evening to enjoy the Loy Krathong atmosphere.
Best for: History enthusiasts, photography lovers, and those looking for a cultural getaway near Bangkok.
Updated September 17, 2026: No event schedule has been announced yet.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Saraburi
7. Tha Lan Loy Krathong Festival
For another interesting Loy Krathong destination in Central Thailand, head to Tha Lan in Saraburi. It offers a different perspective from the major celebrations in Bangkok and Ayutthaya, with a local atmosphere and a full lineup of spectacular lights, sounds, and entertainment, presented by the Miss Grand Saraburi team.
The festival is scheduled to take place from November 20–24, 2026, in Tha Lan Subdistrict, Saraburi. It’s a good option for those who want to step away from large-scale celebrations and enjoy a more relaxed festival atmosphere while experiencing the local community.
Best for: Those looking for a more local Loy Krathong experience that is also accessible from Bangkok.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Tak
8. Lai Prathip 1,000 Floating Lanterns Loy Krathong Festival
One of the most distinctive Loy Krathong celebrations in Thailand is the Lai Prathip 1,000 Floating Lanterns Tradition in Tak.
Instead of releasing large krathongs one by one, local residents traditionally use small krathongs made from natural materials, particularly coconut shells. Once lit, they are released into the Ping River at carefully spaced intervals, creating a continuous line of glowing lights flowing along the water. From the riverbank, the sight of countless lights drifting downstream creates a truly memorable scene.
More than just a Loy Krathong celebration, this tradition reflects the local wisdom and cultural identity of the people of Tak. The festival is traditionally held along the Ping River in Tak town each year.
Best for: Those looking for a unique Loy Krathong experience that is different from celebrations elsewhere in Thailand.
Updated September 17, 2026: No event schedule has been announced yet.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Phichit
9. Bueng Si Fai – Phichit
Bueng Si Fai is one of Phichit’s key landmarks and another popular area for Loy Krathong celebrations. The large lake offers an open setting where visitors can enjoy a wider view of the lights and activities taking place around the waterfront.
Beyond hosting seasonal events, Bueng Si Fai is also considered one of the symbols of Phichit. It is a popular recreational area for both locals and visitors, offering a relaxing place to enjoy the scenery.
If you want a change of pace from Loy Krathong celebrations in Thailand’s major cities, visiting Phichit during the festival and stopping by Bueng Si Fai can be an interesting option.
Best for: Families, those who enjoy open spaces, and travelers exploring Thailand’s secondary destinations.
Updated September 17, 2026: No event schedule has been announced yet.
Top Loy Krathong Spot in Samut Songkhram
10. Mae Klong Banana Leaf Sheath Loy Krathong – Samut Songkhram
To wrap up the list, explore the unique Mae Klong Banana Leaf Sheath Loy Krathong Tradition in Samut Songkhram.
As the name suggests, the highlight of this celebration is the use of banana leaf sheaths as the main material for making krathongs. This reflects the local way of life and the close connection between the community, waterways, and fruit orchards along the canals.
The charm of this festival goes beyond Loy Krathong itself. It offers a chance to experience the atmosphere of Mae Klong’s local community and riverside lifestyle, creating a different experience from celebrations centered around elaborate lights or large entertainment stages. The Mae Klong Banana Leaf Sheath Loy Krathong Tradition has also previously been included by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) among notable Loy Krathong celebrations across the country.
Best for: Those who enjoy cultural events, local communities, and festivals with a distinctive regional identity.
Updated September 17, 2026: No event schedule has been announced yet.
Whether you choose to admire the lights along the Chao Phraya River, release sky lanterns in Chiang Mai, step back in time among the historic ruins of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, or experience local traditions such as the Lai Prathip and Banana Leaf Sheath Loy Krathong celebrations, each destination offers its own unique charm. If you’re planning a Loy Krathong trip in 2026, choose a destination that matches your travel style and enjoy the magic of Thailand’s festival of lights and waterways.
