On November 17th 2007 in San Mateo, CA there will be a big Ceremony for
Loy Kratong, please call (209)-244-8463 for details or view the flyer in
one of the languages linked above.
Loy Kratong is one
of the most picturesque and beautiful of all Thai celebrations. On the
full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, the tide in the waterways is
highest and the moon brightest. Loy literally means ‘to float', while
Kratong refers to the floating lotus-shape receptacle. The Kratong, made
of banana leaves or layers of a banana tree trunk contains flowers, joss
sticks and a candle.
Nationwide, people
gather near the water's edge lighting the candles and sticks and
silently making a wish. Carefully they place their Kratongs in the water
watching intently as the float drifts downstream, hoping that the candle
will not go out. Its flame is said to signify longevity, fulfillment of
wishes and release from sins.
The most popular
version of the origins of Loy Kratong, is that it is an expression of
gratitude by the Thai people to the goddess of water, Phra Mae Kongka,
for having extensively used the rivers, canals and sea.
Loy Kratong first
began during the 13th. Century in Sukhothai. A young queen,
Nang Noppamas made a small boat laden with candles and incense and
floated it down the river. Today, the celebration is a valuable reminder
of people's dependence on Nature's gifts.
Celebrations this
year occur 17 November. Kratongs can be purchased at the festivities.
The money goes to donations for the Temple.
