Bangkok: The city of Bangkok is continuing with its traditional Loi Krathong festival across 110 locations, although the format has been modified this year to reflect a period of mourning for Her Majesty the Queen Mother. Mr. Ekwaranyu Amrapal, Assistant Secretary to the Governor of Bangkok and spokesperson for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, announced that while the festival will proceed, entertainment activities will be suspended. The focus will remain on preserving the tradition, ensuring safety, and promoting environmental consciousness.
According to Thai News Agency, the festival will emphasize traditional aspects of Thai culture, while eliminating elements such as alcohol, firecrackers, sky lanterns, and fireworks to ensure a pollution-free and accident-free environment. Additionally, the krathongs used will be non-natural bread krathongs to support zero pollution efforts.
The city has planned various events across the 110 locations. At the Rama VIII Bridge in Bang Phlat District, visitors can enjoy Thai cultural performances, a krathong-making contest, and exhibitions dedicated to the royal initiatives of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in preserving Thai traditions. Wat Samian Nari Royal Monastery in Chatuchak District will host the “Light of the Water, the Charm of Loi Krathong” event. In Khlong Prem Prachakon, a boat parade and a Miss Noppamas beauty pageant are scheduled, while Wat Arun Ratchawararam will feature the Thai Loi Krathong Festival and other cultural activities. Similar events will be held at ICONSIAM and various public parks throughout Bangkok.
Reflecting on past festivals, in 2024, Bangkok collected 514,590 krathongs, with a significant 98.39% made from natural materials. This marked a decrease of 125,238 krathongs from the previous year.