Loy Krathong Sai Festival 2026 (1,000 Floating Lanterns), Tak

The Loy Krathong Sai Festival 2026, also known as the festival of 1,000 floating lanterns, runs from 21 to 24 November 2026 on the Ping River in Tak, northern Thailand. Thousands of small coconut-shell lanterns are set on the water to drift in a long, glittering line, a local form of Loy Krathong found nowhere else. It suits travellers who want a quieter, more traditional Loy Krathong than the big-city celebrations.

About Loy Krathong Sai

Loy Krathong is held on the full moon of the twelfth Thai lunar month, when people float small offerings on rivers and lakes to give thanks to the water and let go of misfortune. In Tak, the tradition takes a special form: "krathong sai" are lanterns made from coconut shells, filled with wax and released in a continuous chain so they form a ribbon of light along the Ping River.

The Royal Thai Government's official portal lists highlights for 2026 including a royal lantern procession and land parade, the traditional 1,000 Floating Lanterns Competition, cultural performances, and a local OTOP market with regional products. Visitors should remember that Loy Krathong has spiritual meaning for many Thais and behave respectfully near shrines and ceremonies. See the official event page.

Loy Krathong Sai 2026 dates and venue

The Loy Krathong Sai 2026 dates are Saturday 21 November to Tuesday 24 November 2026. The venue is the Ping Riverbank by the 200th Anniversary Rattanakosin Bicentennial Bridge in Mueang District, Tak. Riverside viewing is generally open to the public; evening competition sessions are the busiest, so arrive early for a good spot.

How to get to Tak for Loy Krathong Sai

Tak town is on the main highway between Bangkok and northern Thailand. Mae Sot Airport (MAQ), in the west of Tak province, has domestic flights from Bangkok, and Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) and Sukhothai Airport (THS) are other options, all followed by a road transfer. Many travellers simply drive or take an intercity bus from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. International visitors usually arrive at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) in Bangkok.

For a trip to Tak for Loy Krathong Sai, consider combining it with Sukhothai, whose own Loy Krathong and Candle Festival is held in the same period.

Where to stay

Tak has a modest choice of hotels, guesthouses and riverside resorts, and rooms near the river fill up for the festival nights, so book early. Some travellers stay in Sukhothai, with its historical park and wider range of accommodation, and visit Tak for one evening. Kamphaeng Phet, to the south-east, is another quiet base with UNESCO-listed ruins.

Planning a group trip to Loy Krathong Sai

A group tour to Loy Krathong Sai fits neatly into a northern Thailand circuit in late November: Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Tak, then on to Chiang Mai. Agencies should arrange coach transport and a riverside meeting point, and brief guests on festival etiquette: release krathong only where organisers allow, use natural materials, and avoid sky lanterns unless at an authorised event. Muslim groups from Malaysia and the Gulf will find more halal dining options in larger towns along the route.

Frequently asked questions

When is Loy Krathong Sai 2026 in Tak?

The festival runs from 21 to 24 November 2026 on the Ping Riverbank in Tak, according to the Royal Thai Government's official portal.

What makes Tak's Loy Krathong different?

Tak uses coconut-shell lanterns released in a long chain so they drift down the Ping River in a continuous line of light, rather than single floats.

Is there an entry fee?

Riverside viewing is generally open to the public. Some seated areas or special activities may have their own arrangements; check locally.

Which airport is nearest to Tak?

Mae Sot (MAQ), Phitsanulok (PHS) and Sukhothai (THS) are the closest airports, each followed by a road transfer.

Can visitors float their own krathong?

Yes, in areas the organisers allow. Choose eco-friendly krathong and follow local instructions at the riverbank.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to Loy Krathong Sai Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.