An ultimate Guide to Thailand's Enchanting Festival of Lights

For travellers staying near Bang Tao Beach, including guests at Cassia Phuket, the festival can feel especially relaxed and accessible, with the chance to enjoy a more local and meaningful evening close to the Laguna area.

Loy Krathong Festival in Phuket 2026: At a Glance

What is Loy Krathong Festival?

Loy Krathong Festival in Phuket is a traditional Thai celebration where people float decorated krathongs on water as a symbol of gratitude, reflection, and new beginnings.

When is Loy Krathong Festival in Phuket in 2026?

The festival is celebrated on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, which usually falls on 25th November this year.

Where is Loy Krathong celebrated in Phuket?

Celebrations take place across the island at beaches, lagoons, parks, and community spaces, including Saphan Hin, Patong Beach, Kathu Park, Bang Ma Ruan in Thalang, and the Laguna Phuket area near Bang Tao Beach.

What happens during Loy Krathong in Phuket?

Visitors can expect an evening of floating krathongs, cultural performances, local food, and community celebrations by the water.

Is Loy Krathong the Same as the Lantern Festival in Phuket?

Not exactly. While many travellers search for a “lantern festival in Phuket,” the island’s main November celebration is Loy Krathong, a water-based festival where decorated krathongs are floated on lakes, rivers, and beaches.

The sky lantern festival that many people picture is more closely associated with Yi Peng in Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai. In Phuket, the experience is usually more intimate and centred around floating krathongs on water rather than mass lantern releases into the sky.

Loy Krathong History

The term "Loy Krathong" breaks down into 2 parts: "Loy" (ลอย) means to float, and "Krathong" (กระทง) means basket. Therefore, "Loy Krathong" translates to "floating a basket."

Thailand has always relied on its rivers for agriculture. Loy Krathong is a time when Thais express their gratitude to the water goddess and seek forgiveness for polluting the rivers. This event also allows for the release of past misfortunes and the welcoming of good luck for the upcoming year.

Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Phuket 2026

While the festival is celebrated island-wide, choosing the right spot depends on your "vibe." From quiet local traditions to high-energy beach parties, here is our expert breakdown of where to float your Krathong.

The Laguna Phuket Lagoons (Your Doorstep)

Best for: A serene, upscale experience without the island traffic. Located just steps from Cassia Phuket, the interconnected lagoons of Laguna Phuket offer the most elegant backdrop for the festival.

The Vibe: Calm, romantic, and stress-free. The still lagoon water is perfect for photography because your Krathong candle won't be extinguished by waves or wind.

The Insider Tip: Don’t bother with a taxi. Join the Cassia community for a DIY Krathong workshop, then walk to the water's edge. It’s the most eco-conscious and relaxed way to celebrate.

Saphan Hin, Phuket Town

Best for: Authentic local immersion and a "Street Food Heaven." This is where the heart of Phuket Town beats. It’s a massive seaside park where thousands of locals gather for a full-scale festival.

The Vibe: High energy and family-oriented. Expect a giant fairground atmosphere with carnival games, live Thai music, and the prestigious Noppamas Queen Parade.

The Insider Tip: Traffic Warning! The roads into Phuket Town become a standstill by 6:00 PM. If you aren't staying in Town, leave Bang Tao by 4:30 PM to secure a spot.

Patong Beach

Best for: High energy, international crowds, and "Beach Vibes." If you want to see the festival at its largest scale, head to the sands of Patong.

The Vibe: Energetic and loud. It’s the only place where you release your Krathong directly into the Andaman Sea. The sight of the International Miss Noppamas pageant is a major highlight.

The Insider Tip: Watch the tide! If the tide is coming in, your Krathong will wash back onto the sand. Walk further out or wait for the ebb tide to ensure your "bad luck" truly floats away

Bang Ma Ruan, Thalang (Near Laguna)

Best for: A "Time-Travel" experience and local heritage. Just a short drive from the Laguna area, this hidden gem features a "Back to the Past" theme that feels like old-world Thailand.

The Vibe: Nostalgic and tranquil. It’s surrounded by nature and focuses on traditional costumes and ancient "Sukhothai-style" rituals.

The Insider Tip: This is the best spot for those seeking a "Loy Krathong Festival" feel without the Patong crowds. It’s highly Instagrammable and very respectful of Thai roots.

How to celebrate Loy Krathong

The enchanting Festival of Lights offers numerous ways to immerse yourself in Thai culture and traditions.

• Begin your evening by joining a krathong-making workshop. You will learn to create your own floating offering using traditional materials like banana leaves, flowers and natural decorations.

• Take part in the main ritual of floating your krathong. Light the candle and incense sticks, make a wish and gently release your offering into the water. Say a prayer of thanks to the water goddess, Mae Kongkha.

• During the evening, enjoy the festival's lively atmosphere. Watch traditional Thai dance performances and listen to Thai live music all around you.

• Try authentic Thai dishes from street food vendors. They offer special festival treats like "Kanon Krok," a coconut rice pudding, and Mango Sticky Rice. Don't miss the spectacular brightened boat parade, where vessels adorned with colorful lights create magical reflections on the water.

• For photography lovers, the festival offers great photo opportunities. Thousands of Krathongs light up the waterways, and fireworks brighten the night sky.

How to Make Krathong

Creating your own krathong connects you with Thai tradition while making your Loy Krathong celebration more meaningful. This simple craft uses natural materials to create a beautiful floating vessel.

What You'll Need are;

Base: Banana tree trunk slice (15-20 cm diameter) or eco-friendly alternatives like bread rounds or coconut shells

Decorations: Fresh banana leaves, marigolds, orchids, jasmine, 1 small candle, 3 incense sticks

Tools: Scissors, pins, stapler (optional)

Follow simple steps below

• Cut banana leaves into 5cm x 17cm rectangles. Fold corners diagonally to create pointed petals.
• Secure folded petals around your base edge with pins, overlapping slightly for fullness.
• Add flowers between petals - marigolds around edges, orchids at petal tips.
• Press candle firmly into center, insert 3 incense sticks around it.
• Add personal touches like a small coin or strand of hair to symbolize releasing negativity.

Your handmade krathong serves as a gratitude offering to Phra Mae Khongkha, the water goddess, while symbolically carrying away negative thoughts as it floats. If your candle stays lit until the krathong disappears, it's considered good fortune for the year ahead.

Eco-Friendly Tips

Use bamboo pins instead of metal and choose local flowers that dissolve naturally. Watermelon rinds make excellent biodegradable bases that fish can safely eat.

Why Choose Cassia Phuket as Your Loy Krathong Base?

Staying at Cassia Phuket for Loy Krathong means trading the island's legendary traffic jams for a seamless, front-row experience. Located directly on the serene Laguna Phuket lagoons, you are just steps away from one of the island's most iconic and tranquil celebration spots. While others spend hours in taxis to reach crowded public parks, you can walk from your loft to the water’s edge in minutes.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Loy Krathong in Phuket

Here's your comprehensive guide to making the most of this magical celebration.

Timing your visit

To have the best experience, arrive at your chosen venue before sunset. This allows you to secure good viewing spots and observe the preparations.

The main celebrations occur from dusk to midnight. The busiest time is between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. During this period, thousands of krathongs illuminate the waters.

What to Wear

Dressing appropriately for Loy Krathong in Phuket enhances comfort and shows respect for the culture. We recommend wearing light, traditional Thai clothing to both honor the festivities and stay comfortable throughout the night. Wear water-resistant shoes for walking on sand and near water.

Smart Planning

Book your hotel early due to high visitor numbers. Bring enough cash for local vendors, as many do not accept cards. Use a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the festivities and keep valuables in waterproof pouches. Pack mosquito repellent for comfort at waterside celebrations after sunset.

Cultural Etiquette

Respecting Thai customs enhances your experience and the locals' appreciation. Be respectful during prayers and blessings. Remove your shoes and dress modestly at temples. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially during ceremonies.

Transportation Tips

Book transportation early to avoid hectic traffic. Cassia Phuket also offers shuttle services to the main festival spot like Patong, easing travel and parking concerns.

See shuttle schedule here

Loy Krathong with Consciousness

Celebrating Loy Krathong sustainably is crucial to preserving Thailand's traditions and waterways. Use eco-friendly Krathongs made from natural materials, such as banana trunks and leaves.