Thailand prepares for first postCovid Loi Krathong’s celebrations

Bangkok, 6 November, 2022 The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) opened the ‘Amazing Night Light of Loi Krathong’ celebration in the historic environs of Bangkok’s riverside Santi Chai Prakan Public Park. The event runs from 16.00 21.00 Hrs., through to 8 November, 2022.

One of Thailand’s most popular annual festivals

One of Thailand’s most popular and most visually stunning annual festivals, Loi Krathong is celebrated during the full moon of the 12^th month of the Thai lunar calendar. This year the festival is on Tuesday, 8 November, with celebrations taking place at various destinations throughout the kingdom.

The threeday event features Thai cultural activities that reflect the unique Thai traditions and ways of life. Activities and workshops include displays and parades of the Loi Krathong traditions of Chiang Mai, Roi Et, Samut Songkhram, Sukhothai, and Tak, as well as the Rattanakosin era.

There are also DIY stations on krathong making with biodegradable materials, and stations on the traditional Thai way of life, including Royal Thai Cuisine cooking and floral garland making, and of course, floating krathongs on the mighty Chao Phraya River.

UTCC Projects 9.7 Billion Baht in Loy Krathong Cash Flow This Year

Thailand’s ongoing economic recovery has convinced the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) to revise its forecast on money circulation during this year’s Loy Krathong festival, according to NNT News report.

The university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting (CEBF) predicts 9.7 billion baht will be circulated during the festival the highest level in 10 years.

UTCC President Dr Thanavath Phonvichai noted that the improved pandemic situation enabled the Thai economy to recover faster, allowing for more energized Loy Krathong celebrations.

A survey of about 1,200 respondents found that 67.6% of respondents plan to engage in Loy Krathong activities. Meanwhile 76.1% expect to float krathong baskets while 34.9% intend to dine out. 43.5% also hope to make merit and 39.9% plan to visit Loy Krathong festival venues.

1,900 baht spending on average during the festival

The survey also found that people were prepared to spend 1,900 baht on average during the festival, up from last year, with expenditures to include commuting, dining out and socializing. The CEBF therefore expects circulation to reach 9.7 billion baht this year. The 6% expansion over the previous year would thus take Loy Krathong cash flow to a 10year peak.

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