Loi Krathong Festival

 Loi Krathong, giving thanks to the water goddess was on November 8th. After making our small rafts, made from a the trunk of a banana tree, banana leaves, and other flowers we found in the area. We went to the nearby temple, situated along a canal and, along with thousands of other people, sent our offering downstream. It's quite a pretty sight, though maybe not the most environmentally conscious, or best way to "give thanks" or apologize, to the water goddess (but I imagine that many traditions are similarly troubling when the real point is to gather with friends, family, and loved ones, take a break, and enjoy the moment).

In recent years, salespeople, and individuals, make their "krathong" (boats) from breads, or other more environmentally conscious materials, that either break down in the river, or are eaten by the fish. There is a lot more to the tradition, celebrated throughout southeast Asia, with variations in each locale, but sometimes those details get in the way of enjoying the actual festival and the camaraderie of the community, especially after two years of Covid having put the hamper on most social gatherings, so here are some pictures.

Putting on the final touch, to make sure it doesn't sink!

Incense and candles are standard.

Crowds and food at the temple. It's really a lively festival.

Not going hungry this night!

Do you need some entertainment at your next party? Call these guys!

Looking down the canal. Couples light the candles and incense, say a prayer and then place their krathong in the canal.

Krathong can be pretty elaborate, and expensive.

Minion krathong, made from some kind of bread.

Sometimes the krathong catch on fire as they go down the canal.