LOY KRATHONG: Whatever floats your basket...

'Loy Kratong' literally means 'float basket'. It's orginas are somewhat suspect, although it dates back to the fourteenth century when the capital of Siam was in the Northern city of Sukothai. Many people claim its a Hindu holiday that has been grafted into Buddhism, but it's more likely that it was originally an Animist event, since it is held at the end of the rainy season and meant to appease the river god. In Buddhist tradition, Loy Kratong is an event of spiritual renewal, an opportunity to put the past behind you and start again.


Traditionally, after placing your basket in the water and saying a prayer, you must follow the basket as it drifts away for as long as possible. The longer your candle stays lit, the better luck you will have during the coming year.

Most krathongs are hand-made baskets with flowers, candles, and incense sticks given as an offering to the river god. To Loy your krathong with a member of the opposite sex often is seen as an indication that you are more than just friends. (I thought I saw Dwight and Angela out there placing baskets in the water, but I can't be sure...)

For four days leading up to Loy Krathong, there has been a parade of river boats along the Chao Phrya in Bangkok. I was even able to Kaddi to go down into Bangkok with me so we could watch some of it from the rooftop of a Thai restaurant. (She went into Bangkok, and we ate at a Thai restaurant - absolutely unprecedented!)

A large portrait of King Bhumipol Adulyadej adorned many of the floats. This is the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Rama IX, and so his portrait, emblem, and color (yellow) is everywhere.