Loy Krathong
in the UK

What is Loy Krathong?

Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) is Thailand's festival of lights, celebrated on the full moon of the 12th lunar month — usually November. "Loy" means to float, and "krathong" is a small decorated basket made from banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense. Millions of Thais float these krathongs on rivers, lakes, and ponds to pay respect to the water goddess (Phra Mae Khongkha), let go of misfortunes, and make wishes for the coming year.

In the UK, Loy Krathong is celebrated at Thai temples — most notably at Wat Buddhapadipa in Wimbledon, which has its own lake. It's smaller than Songkran but arguably more beautiful. Candles floating on dark water, traditional Thai music, the smell of incense and street food — it's one of the UK's most photogenic cultural events.

Where to Celebrate in 2026

Estimated date: Sunday 15 November 2026 (based on the full moon). Confirmed dates will be published by temples from September.

How to Make a Krathong

Most UK temples sell pre-made krathongs (£5–10), but making your own is part of the tradition. Here's how:

1. Base: A slice of banana tree trunk (available at Thai grocers) or a biodegradable circular base. Do NOT use polystyrene — it harms wildlife and is banned at most temples.
2. Leaves: Wrap banana leaves around the base, folded and pinned with small wooden sticks or toothpicks. No metal pins — they rust and pollute the water.
3. Flowers: Orchids, marigolds, lotus, or any bright flower. Arrange them in layers on top of the leaves.
4. Candle & incense: Three incense sticks and one small candle in the centre. These are lit just before floating.
5. Personal touches: Some people add a coin (for prosperity), a strand of hair (to float away troubles), or a small written wish tucked under the flowers.

When you float it, make a wish. Tradition says if the candle stays lit until your krathong floats out of sight, your wish will come true.

Loy Krathong vs Yi Peng

Many people confuse Loy Krathong with Yi Peng — the sky lantern festival in Chiang Mai. They happen around the same time but are different festivals:

• Loy Krathong = floating krathongs on water. Celebrated across Thailand and at UK temples.
• Yi Peng = releasing paper sky lanterns. Specific to northern Thailand (Lanna culture). Rarely celebrated in the UK due to fire safety regulations — most UK temples do not allow sky lanterns.

In the UK, what you'll experience at temples is traditional Loy Krathong — water floating only. The photos you see online of thousands of lanterns in the sky are from Thailand.

Visitor Tips

• Dress warmly — it's a November evening in the UK. The temple grounds get cold. Layers and a coat.
• Bring cash — most temple food stalls and krathong sellers are cash-only. ATMs near Wimbledon are a 15-minute walk.
• Arrive early — the best krathongs sell out. The sunset-to-darkness transition is the magic hour for photos.
• Dress modestly — temples require covered shoulders and knees. This applies even during outdoor events.
• Take photos, then put the phone away — the candles on water are genuinely beautiful. Get your shot, then just watch.
• Bring a torch — temple grounds are dimly lit for atmosphere. You'll need light to navigate paths and read food stall menus.