Of all the festivals in Southeast Asia, few match the ethereal beauty of Loi Krathong in Sukhothai. Held on the full moon of November each year, this ancient festival transforms the UNESCO World Heritage Site into a shimmering river of candlelight, flowers, and incense — reflected across the moats and lotus ponds of the ancient city.

Sukhothai is widely regarded as the birthplace of Loi Krathong, and celebrating it here — where the tradition began over 700 years ago — is a profoundly different experience from seeing it in Chiang Mai or Bangkok.

What Is Loi Krathong?

Loi Krathong (ลอยกระทง) translates as “to float a basket”. On the night of the full moon, Thais across the country release hand-crafted krathong — small floating offerings made from banana leaves, flowers, incense sticks, and a candle — onto rivers, lakes, and waterways.

The act carries deep spiritual meaning: releasing the krathong symbolises letting go of grudges, bad luck, and negative feelings, while making a wish for the year ahead. It is simultaneously a Buddhist merit-making ritual and a celebration of water, which sustains all life in agricultural Thailand.

Why Sukhothai for Loi Krathong?

The origin of Loi Krathong is traditionally attributed to the Sukhothai era. According to legend, a royal consort named Nang Nopphamat first crafted an elaborately decorated krathong and released it on the Ping River to honour the Buddha — a gesture that King Ramkhamhaeng so admired that it became an annual tradition.

Whether or not the legend is entirely historical, there is no more fitting place to witness the festival than among the ancient chedis and lotus-filled moats of the Sukhothai Historical Park — the very landscape in which the tradition was born.

What Happens at Sukhothai Loi Krathong

The Sukhothai Loi Krathong festival typically runs for 3–5 nights around the full moon (the exact dates change each year based on the lunar calendar). The main events are held within and around the Sukhothai Historical Park.

Light & Sound Show

Each evening after dark, the Historical Park hosts a spectacular light and sound show illuminating the ruins of Wat Mahathat, Wat Sa Si, and other major temples. The ancient chedis are reflected in candlelit moats while traditional Thai music fills the air — a scene of extraordinary beauty.

Traditional Performances

Throughout the festival, stages around the park host traditional Thai dance performances, classical music, and cultural shows depicting scenes from the Sukhothai era. Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional Thai dress (available to rent near the park entrance).

Releasing Krathong

The centrepiece of each evening is the mass release of krathong onto the park’s moats and ponds. Hundreds of flickering lights drift silently across dark water beneath ancient stone temples — an image that has made Sukhothai’s Loi Krathong one of the most photographed scenes in all of Asia.

Krathong Market

A large market surrounds the park during the festival, selling hand-crafted krathong (biodegradable banana-leaf designs are encouraged), local food, handicrafts, and traditional clothing.

2025 Loi Krathong Dates

Loi Krathong falls on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. In 2025, the full moon falls on 5 November. The Sukhothai festival typically begins 2–3 days before the full moon and runs 1–2 days after.

Note: Always confirm exact dates closer to the time, as the official programme is announced a few months in advance.

Tips for Visiting Sukhothai Loi Krathong

1. Book accommodation 3–6 months in advance. Sukhothai fills up completely during the festival. Accommodation near the Historical Park is especially limited and books out first.
2. Arrive early each evening. Gates to the light and sound show areas have limited capacity. Aim to be inside the park by 5:30pm.
3. Wear traditional Thai dress. It adds to the experience and makes for unforgettable photographs.
4. Choose biodegradable krathong. Traditional banana-leaf krathong are eco-friendly and preferable to foam versions.
5. Explore during the day too. The festival runs over several days — use daylight hours to explore the ruins without the crowds, and save the evenings for the illuminations.
6. Bring cash. Market vendors and tuk-tuks operate on cash only.

Where to Stay for Loi Krathong in Sukhothai

For the most memorable Loi Krathong experience, stay near the Sukhothai Historical Park — walking distance from the evening events, without the need to arrange transport after dark.

Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa offers special Loi Krathong packages each November, including:

• Krathong-making workshop using traditional banana leaves and flowers
• Private krathong release ceremony on the resort’s lotus pond
• Guided evening visit to the light and sound show
• Traditional Thai dinner on the terrace overlooking rice fields

Set among rice fields overlooking Wat Chedi Sung, Sriwilai provides a serene base from which to experience the festival — and a beautiful sanctuary to return to each night.

Book your Loi Krathong stay: sriwilaisukhothai.com

Getting to Sukhothai for Loi Krathong

Flights from Bangkok (Bangkok Airways, ~1 hour) fill up quickly in November. Book flights and accommodation simultaneously, as early as possible. Bangkok buses and Phitsanulok train connections are alternatives if flights are unavailable.