Queen Mother Passes Away, Thailand Observes a Low-Key Loy Krathong Festival

November 5 marks the annual Loy Krathong Festival in Thailand, where many people release floating lanterns along the river, praying for good fortune in the coming year.

Unlike previous years, this year many activities have been scaled down or festive elements canceled, as a mark of mourning and respect for the Queen Mother Sirikit, who passed away in October. Many people said that the atmosphere of Loy Krathong is very different this year compared to the past.

Authorities recently announced that Loy Krathong events are permitted across the country, but certain forms of activities must be adjusted, such as reducing musical performances, lighting, and sound effects, and ensuring all celebrations maintain a solemn atmosphere in remembrance of Queen Mother Sirikit.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand website, every year on the full moon of the 15th day of the 12th month in the Buddhist calendar, Thais craft lotus-shaped boats and float them on rivers or streams, placing fragrant flowers, incense sticks, candles, or a coin inside the boat, as a sincere tribute to the water goddess and to symbolically wash away any misdeeds from the past year.