As the nation mourns the passing of His Majesty the King, the annual Loy Krathong festivals on November 13 will have to be toned down. Locals will however be able to float their own krathong as usual.
Many provinces have festivals that last several days but this year these will be cancelled. Sukhothai, where the Loy Krathong ceremony is said to have originated some 700 years ago, is one of the most popular destinations for visitors during the festival .
Candle-lit krathong bowls are launched into the river in a seemingly endless line, though organizers in Sukothai have announced that parts of the festival, initially planned for Nov 12-17, would be called off.
In Chiang Mai, traditional activities to mark the 12th lunar month, including Yi Peng and Loy Krathong, will go ahead, but in a more sombre manner.The Chiang Mai governor said that there would be no spectacular fireworks displays, concerts or beauty contests.
Buriram authorities have not as yet made any official statement but a source has mentioned that they have agreed in principle that locals should continue with traditional activities such as the floating of krathong.
It is also expected that decorations of the city, temple gates and buildings could go ahead. However, floating lanterns must be made with white or grey paper only.
There would be no fireworks or concerts that normally showcase the festival.
Credit: Bangkok Post