Today, Monday, November 14th, Thailand is celebrating Loi Krathong, a festival celebrated annually whose name is translated "to float a basket". Loi Krathong is one of Thailand's most beautiful holidays, where the people pay their respects to the River Goddess under the light of the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. It is this day that marks the end of the rainy season, as well as the end of the main rice harvest season. In order to thank the River Goddess for the year's abundance, people float their baskets to pay tribute. The streets of Chiang Mai were crowded with native Thai people and tourists alike, all in anticipation for the night's festivities.
Along the streets, vendors were selling food, drinks, and decorated baskets to those who wish to participate in the main event of Loi Krathong. After our group spent the day learning how to make our own decorated baskets, or
krathong, we walked to the river to launch our creations in celebration. Fun fact: If you candle stays alight until your
krathong disappears out of sight, this signifies a year of good luck!
(Christina Andros, Kimberly Han, and Kristy Nguyen light their krathong)
The Loi Krathong festival coincides with the lantern release, where swarms of sky lanterns are launched from the bridge over the river and into the air.
Here's to the Super Moon! Well wishes, everyone!
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