Students and the general public will compete to create the most-beautiful, natural floats for Pattaya’s annual Loy Krathong celebration Nov. 25.
Considered Thailand’s traditional Valentine’s Day, thousands of people across the area will take krathongs made of everything from plastic foam to banana leaves, and filled with candles and incense, to the beach or local lake to cast adrift with prayers and wishes for love and prosperity.
Women across the area dress in traditional Thai costumes and parties are held at hotels and entertainment venues across the region.
Pattaya’s official celebration again will be at Lan Po Public Park in Naklua, where a krathong competition and the Miss Noppamas pageant for young girls will be held. The event also will feature concerts from Takkatan Chonlada and Alice R Siam.
This year’s Loy Krathong celebration takes place on Nov. 25.
The krathong competition will be divided into categories for primary and secondary school students, and adults. Winners of each bracket will take home 10,000 baht. All krathongs must be made of natural materials.
City Councilman Banjong Banthoonprayuk said Pattaya is encouraging all people, whether attending official celebrations or not, only to make or buy krathongs made of natural, biodegradable materials.
Registration is open through Nov. 20 at city hall. Call 038-253-130 for more information.
The Miss Noppamas pageant is open to girls ages 7-9 who are registered at a Chonburi address.
Applications are being taken through Nov. 12 and limited space is available. If more girls apply than available space, finalists will be decided at Central Festival Pattaya Beach on Nov. 13.
