Vibrant Loi Krathong Festival in Sukhothai Province Attracts Thousands of Tourists.

SUKHOTHAI: The annual Loi Krathong, Candle Festival, and Firework Festival in Sukhothai Province has brought a lively atmosphere, drawing both Thai and foreign tourists to Sukhothai Historical Park. The retro-themed celebration harkens back to Sukhothai's history as a capital city over 700 years ago. According to Thai News Agency, the festival features a variety of activities, including ancient trading simulations where visitors use Poddueng coins and cowrie shells instead of cash to purchase food. The exchange rate is set at one Poddueng coin for 20 baht and cowrie shells for 10 baht. The Nang Noppamas beauty contest, an annual highlight, will crown a cultural and tourism ambassador for Sukhothai Province, offering a cash prize of up to 100,000 baht. The decision will be made on the evening of November 15. Additionally, a light and sound show titled 'The Glory of Sukhothai' vividly narrates the historical significance of the region, capturing the attention of many attendees. Tourists have already begun the traditional floating of krathongs as an act of reverence to the river goddess. Authorities predict that the festival will generate at least 500 million baht in economic activity. The Provincial Statistical Office has reported over 220,000 visitors from November 8 to November 13. This year's festival will continue until November 17, and it is anticipated that the full moon night will attract no less than 80,000 visitors. In Phuket Province, a temporary pond at Patong Beach allows for an eco-friendly krathong floating experience. Chalermsak Maneesri, the Mayor of Patong Municipality, has doubled the pond's length to accommodate more floats and reduce marine waste. Last year, approximately 7 tons of krathongs were collected, and this year expects to see an increase. Ban Tha Chat Chai village has shifted its focus from traditional krathong floating to releasing fish, acknowledging the environmental impact on aquatic life. This year, the presence of dugongs in the area has further highlighted the importance of e nvironmental preservation during the festival. The Royal Thai Police have issued safety recommendations for the festival, emphasizing water safety and the avoidance of crowded and potentially dangerous areas. They advise against the use of firecrackers and encourage the use of eco-friendly krathongs. Additionally, they caution against online scams related to virtual krathong floating. In Bangkok, 140 events showcase various formats, from nature-focused to digital and online experiences, all designed to maintain tradition while protecting the environment. Public parks are open for krathong floating until midnight, with a campaign promoting the use of natural materials and reducing waste. The Greener Bangkok website offers a virtual krathong floating option, encouraging environmental consciousness. Other digital celebrations in Bangkok include projection mapping and interactive krathong design, bringing innovation to the traditional festival while fostering a spirit of sustainability and cultural appreciatio n.