Bangkok best riverside spots to celebrate Loy Krathong

Experience Loy Krathong up close with an evening of hands-on krathong-making in the lobby from 3pm to 5pm, giving guests a chance to craft and select their favourite floating lantern. As night falls, enjoy a vibrant mix of performances, including modern Thai dance and a captivating Khon show. The evening continues with a lavish buffet at 6:30pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 9pm. Sustainability matters here, so all krathongs and decorations and decorations are made from natural materials. Nov 15. B3,850. 50% discount for children (7-11 years). Reserve via 0-2307-8888 or email fbco.chrb@chatrium.com

On the banks of the iconic Chao Phraya River, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park offers an indulgent celebration. Choose from three riverside venues – Sirimahannop, The Crystal Grill House, and Asiatique Ancient Tea House – for a seafood buffet, live cooking stations, and Thai and international cuisine to satisfy all palates. A complimentary krathong awaits every table, and a live DJ will keep spirits high until 11pm. The price? B1,899 net per person, with à la carte and free-flow beverage packages available for B2,000. Watch the river light up in the glow of thousands of floating lanterns. 15 Nov. Reserve via 02-059-5999

On the banks of the iconic Chao Phraya River, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park offers an indulgent celebration. Choose from three riverside venues – Sirimahannop, The Crystal Grill House, and Asiatique Ancient Tea House – for a seafood buffet, live cooking stations, and Thai and international cuisine to satisfy all palates. A complimentary krathong awaits every table, and a live DJ will keep spirits high until 11pm. The price? B1,899 net per person, with à la carte and free-flow beverage packages available for B2,000. Watch the river light up in the glow of thousands of floating lanterns. 15 Nov. Reserve via 02-059-5999

If grandeur is what you’re after, head to The Peninsula Bangkok for Loy Krathong. Guests can float their intricately designed krathongs, complete with flowers and incense, on the River of Kings and revel in traditional Thai dance and a Miss Noppamas beauty pageant, celebrating the very first krathong floating in the 14th century. A thrilling fireworks display caps off the night. Dining options are plentiful: a Gala Dinner Buffet at River Cafe and Terrace (B6,900 indoors, B7,900 outdoors), a five-course Thai menu at Thiptara (B5,500), and a Western set menu at The Lobby Terrace (B7,900). Eco-friendly krathongs are provided for all guests. Nov 15, 7pm onwards. B5,500-7,900. Reserve via 02-020-6969

Nostalgia reigns at The Golden Mount, where Loy Krathong fuses with a classic Thai funfair. Ride the Ferris wheel, wander through a haunted house, and test your aim at the doll-shooting stalls. Street food abounds: think grilled pork skewers, spicy salads, and chicken noodles, all perfectly paired with traditional Thai tea or a Milo chocolate latte. It's a throwback festival with all the right flavours. Until Nov 15. Free Entry

An artsy way to celebrate Loy Krathong is at Ong Ang Walking Street. Watch the floating Loy Krathongs as they drift by, accompanied by an art projection on the wall of a 12-storey car park near Phanuphan Bridge. This art-focused event is a hub for creative minds to showcase their works, purchase vibrant handmade souvenirs, and admire the 120-metre mural painted by local artists. Nov 13-15, 5pm-9pm. Free Entry

For a fun experience, head to Sooksiam at Iconsiam, where you can dress up in traditional Thai costume and float a Loy Krathong in the mall's indoor floating market. Don’t miss their Noppamas Queen Contest on November 15, a beauty pageant inspired by the Sukhothai era. Then, wander through Sooksiam’s maze of stalls, sample classic Thai snacks and dishes, and pick up locally-inspired crafts and costumes to fully immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere. Nov 13-15, 3pm-midnight. Free Entry