Loy Krathong is one of Thailand’s most enchanting traditions. People gather along rivers, lakes, and canals to float “krathong”, beautifully decorated baskets made from banana leaves and flowers.
In 2025, the Maha Loy Krathong Festival in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya will take place from November 2 to 6, at Wat Phra Ram, one of the city’s most stunning temples surrounded by a lotus pond. The site itself is part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage landmark known for its graceful ruins and sacred atmosphere. However, the festival takes on a more heartfelt as the nation mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Honoring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother
In remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office has thoughtfully adjusted this year’s celebration. Instead of the usual festive atmosphere, the Maha Loy Krathong in Ayutthaya 2025 will focus on presenting Thailand’s cultural heritage in a more respectful manner, reflecting gratitude and mourning for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother. There will be no loud entertainment or fireworks, and all performances will be adjusted to align with the national mourning period.
Updated Details of the Event
Despite the nation’s mourning, the Tourism Authority has confirmed that the event will continue as scheduled. Key Events and Highlights
1. Standing Mourning Ceremony: each day of the festival will begin with a standing mourning ceremony where visitors can express their condolences and respect for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.
2. Cultural and Musical Performances: the stage performances will feature:
- Royal compositions created by or inspired by the late Queen’s musical legacy.
- Traditional Thai music and dance that celebrate the Queen Mother’s lifelong dedication to preserving Thai culture.
- Cultural performances presented by local artists and students, focusing on grace, history, and national identity.
3. Procession of Miss Noppamas: the procession, usually well-known for its colorful and festive displays, will take on a more cultural and symbolic presentation this year. The focus will be on traditional attire, elegant choreography, and historical significance, emphasizing Thailand’s deep-rooted customs.
4. Drone Light Show in Mourning Theme: the performance, typically a highlight of the festival, will create symbolic visuals of lotus flowers, candles, and gentle lights, expressing peace and remembrance in the night sky.
5. Tribute Exhibition to the Royal Family: exhibition booths will be set up to honor His Majesty the King and the late Queen Mother, showcasing their royal projects, photographs, and works related to Thai cultural preservation. The color scheme of the event will be soft and respectful, avoiding bright tones, to align with the atmosphere of mourning.
Despite the gentle tone, the festival continues to highlight Ayutthaya’s local creativity. Visitors can enjoy:
- Demonstrations of traditional crafts such as lotus folding, weaving, and candle carving.
- DIY activities where participants can make their own krathongs using natural materials like banana leaves, flowers, and bread to promote eco-friendly practices.
- Local food stalls which offer signature Ayutthaya dishes and sweets.
About Loy Krathongs Festival
The festival is a way of paying respect to the Goddess of Water, known as “Mae Khongkha,” and symbolizes letting go of negativity to start fresh. The highlight of 'Loy Krathong' is about the riverside ceremony. Normally, tourists can join locals in floating their krathongs on the river. The act of releasing a krathong is a way to pay respect to the water goddess and to let go of bad luck from the past year.
This tradition becomes even more special in Ayutthaya because the floating baskets shine against the backdrop of ancient temples and ruin historical sites of a UNESCO World Heritage city. So, tourists can enjoy not only the beauty of the krathongs but also the light displays, cultural shows, and the warm smiles of local people.
Moreover, Ayutthaya offers many convenient spots to enjoy the festival. You can choose a place that fits your plan:
- Wat Phanan Choeng Pier, where a riverside temple full of history
- Pom Phet Pier, where the river view meets the city walls
- Wang Chan Kasem Pier, where is located near the old royal palace
- Wat Phutthaisawan Pier, where is surrounded by the charming riverside atmosphere
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram Pier, where the temple lights create a truly magical scene.
Even in mourning, Ayutthaya still shines with the full moon’s light and the timeless love for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Join the Loy Krathong Festival in Ayutthaya
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