TAT hosted Loi Krathong 2015 celebrations at Nagaraphirom Park in Bangkok

BANGKOK - The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted the Colour of the Water event on the banks of the Chao Phraya River at Nagaraphirom Park this evening, giving locals and visitors in Bangkok the chance to take part in the nationwide celebrations of Loi Krathong.

Mr. Visanu Jaroensilp, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business said, “Loi Krathong is one of Thailand’s most popular festivals and is held on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, which this year falls on 25 November. This evening, visitors had the chance to experience traditional activities and enjoy the charming atmosphere of historic Rattanakosin Island.”

The Park was also the perfect venue for people to float their banana leaf krathongs and watch the illuminated boat procession light up the River of Kings as seven fabulously illuminated boats proceeded from Bangkok Bridge to Rama 8 Bridge accompanied by a fireworks display.

The Loi Krathong events in Nagaraphirom Park began at 17:00 hrs. and visitors had the opportunity to see how traditional banana leaf krathongs were made as well as learned about regional Loi Krathong traditions; such as, the northern Yi Peng festival of Chiang Mai. They also had the chance to enjoy traditional Thai masked Khon displays performed by artistes from the Ramayana Dance Theatre, traditional puppet shows and a range of contemporary Thai music.

Mr. Visanu said “Loi Khrathong is Thailand’s most charming annual festival and there are few better spots to appreciate it than in the cultural heart of the nation, Rattanakosin Island, with its scenery of palaces and glittering temples. We want people to experience this most Thai of events by floating krathongs on the historic river and enjoying unique Thai displays that showcase our wealth of art and tradition to the world.”

The celebration at Nagaraphirom Park was just one of several that have been arranged along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya Riverside. The Temples of Wat Arun Ratchawararam, Wat Chetupon Wimonmangkhlaram, Wat Prayurawongsawas, and Wat Kalayanamit Woramahawihan have also played host to Loi Krathong parties, as well as Tha Maharat, Yodpiman Riverwalk and Asiatique the Riverfront where the celebrations have attracted large number of international tourists.

The Bangkok events have been part of a nationwide celebration of Loi Krathong, which this year is emphasising the unique aspects of Thainess. The most spectacular events have included a krathong and candle festival in Sukhothai, and Yi Peng festivals in Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya. Temple fairs and firework displays have also taken place in various cities nationwide.

sourced:traveldailynews.asia