Loy Kratong

[JD]

Great pictures and commentary MrPlum.

I’ve always thought that Loy Kratong is one of Thailand’s most beautiful traditions from the very first one I attended many full moons ago.

You’ve certainly captured the model, beauty and spirit of the festival. Thank you for that.

[Arcadian]

Great photos, can you please tell me the the meaning behind the ceremony?

[Nereus]

Great photos, can you please tell me the the meaning behind the ceremony?

This link will give you a basic idea: http://www.loikrathong.net/en/

[mrco]

Very nice photos!!

[MrPlum]

Thank you everyone for the positive feedback.

I edited my post to correct the spelling of 'Loy Krathong' to 'Loy Kratong' in line with most posters (there is one 'Lor Kratong') only to see (on google) lots of results with 'Loi Krathong'. Can anyone confirm the correct spelling?

[IHF]

As in the Thai language most words have more than one meaning and Thai characters do not translate exactly to other languages.

so there will be many variations, and all can be deemed as correct.

As only non Thai's will read it.

[Guess]

Thank you everyone for the positive feedback.

I edited my post to correct the spelling of 'Loy Krathong' to 'Loy Kratong' in line with most posters (there is one 'Lor Kratong') only to see (on google) lots of results with 'Loi Krathong'. Can anyone confirm the correct spelling?

Yes, well done Mr. Plum. It is good to see the happier side of life with all the gloom and doom being spread around lately.

In answer to your spelling question, there is no single right answer. There are at least four different transliteration systems used in Thailand. The Lor is definitely wrong, it is a different word altogether. Kratong may be OK with some systems but I am not sure. Krathong, (meaning a strong o sound) is usual. Loy and Loi are used as both amount to the same thing in roman script.

The most common spelling is Loy Krathong.

Firework sales.

Two years ago there was a serious problem with teenage boys riding around the town in threes on bikes throwing loud crackers into bars and restaurants. So instead of enforcing the fireworks sales to minors laws they ban sales to everybody. Less hassle for the authorities I guess.

It's probably a similar motive for the alcohol restrictions.

[gasman2]

I was there and it was quite a good laugh, seemed to be plenty westerners and Thais chugging away at beers and having the occasional fag. There were loads of threatening signs up but I got the general impression that it was more intended to be a message to the younger generation, wouldnt want them turning into binge drinkers. I just wish there was more diversity to the Thai food stalls on offer rather than msg'd up chicken and hot dog satay, i would thought there would be more too it.

[heretostay]

certainly no beer at 19 rai, I wasthere 2 hrs and police in strict control. even drink stalls I know, never even had under the counter.

have signs up now, 10,000 baht fine for drinking in public park or 3 months in jail.

[charlesh]

No prob's in the Kao Tao version. Lots of food to tempt. Beer on sale and the dancing girls on stage were a sight to behold. Lot's of beautiful kratongs launched and even some very successful hot air balloons, 1 fired up with what appeared to be fast burning sprinklers (pyrotechnic type).