Bangkok, 4 November, 2017 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) last night hosted local and international tourists to a memorable Loi Krathong celebration in the historic environs of Bangkok’s riverside Santi Chaiprakan Park. The event also marked the beginning the ‘Amazing Thailand Tourism Year 2018‘.
Mr. Kalin Sarasin (left), Chairman of the Board of TAT, and Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn (right), TAT Governor, jointly presided over the opening ceremony of the Loi Krathong Festival 2017 in Bangkok.
Mr. Kalin lit the candle on the krathong as Mr. Yuthasak looked on. They later floated or ‘loi” their krathongs, a tradition which has been held annually on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month as a way of thanking the Goddess of River, worshipping the Buddha, and releasing worries and bad fortunes into the water.
During the opening ceremony, local and international tourists also had the chance to enjoy spectacular processions and impressive cultural performances, including displays and parades of Loi Krathong traditions of Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Tak and Samut Songkhram.
Tourists and locals also took part in a workshop to make their own krathongs with biodegradable materials, sample some delectable Thai dishes and snacks, enjoy demonstrations on the traditional Thai way of life including Royal Thai Cuisine cooking and floral garland making and of course, float their krathongs on the mighty Chao Phraya River.
Last night, the Loi Krathong Festival 2017 was also celebrated at various destinations nationwide, with TAT hosting cultural events at five other key locations; Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Tak, Samut Songkhram, and Ayutthaya.
About Santi Chaiprakan Park
Sat on the hip dining street of Phra Arthit Road, near the busy tourist street of Khaosan Road, Santi Chaiprakarn Park is not only the green space of Banglamphu neighborhood but it also occasionally hosts a series of cultural activities and performances for locals and visitor. The park was transformed from an abandoned space by the Chao Phraya River to celebrate His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60th birthday in 1999. Sitting at the centre is the historic Phra Sumane Fort, one of few old forts left in Bangkok, surrounded by a pleasant atmosphere of tropical trees. The park is also an ideal spot to unwind with the views of Chao Phraya River, Pinklao and Rama VIII bridges. (Source: www.tourismthailand.org)
