It’s not too late to make plans for the 8th!

By Aiden Jewelle Gonzales

8 | TUESDAY

Today marks the start of Loy Krathong celebrations, one of the biggest Thai festivals of the year. For those who wish to join in the festivities, Anantara Riverside Bangkok is hosting a range of celebrations for the occasion. Visit their Riverside Terrace for a dinner buff et of classic Thai dishes, live music, and a traditional krathong floating ceremony; head to Trader Vic’s for a four-course set menu comprised of premium seafood such as poached Canadian lobster; book their Manohra Cruise for a romantic gourmet dining experience on the River of Kings and a krathong float on the pier while you enjoy the fireworks; enjoy their Longtail by the River for a special menu of Thai classics by the water’s edge, including Thai-farmed edible insects; or opt for a fully-customisable private dinner with their Dining by Design experience, which will be in a Thai sala by the river, with your own personal chef and sommelier.
For more information and for their price list, visit their Facebook page: @AnantaraRiversideBangkok

For those who wish to have a higher vantage point to watch the 10-minute firework display on the Chao Phraya River, Avani+ Riverside Bangkok is hosting a Loy Krathong buffet at Skyline between 6pm and 10pm, with a massive ice bar replete with fresh seafood; while SEEN Restaurant & Bar Bangkok will be holding Sky Tunes, a ‘mini-concert’ by Thai-Belgian pop singer, Violette Wautier, as well as a four-course dinner of delectable delights.
For more information and for their price list, visit their Facebook page: @avanibangkok

Alternatively, head to established riverside property, The Peninsula Bangkok, for a beauty pageant to crown Miss Noppamas, the symbolic goddess of water whom the festival honours. A complimentary krathong will be given to each guest, with an opportunity to float it down the River of Kings after dinner. Food and beverage promotions for the occasion include an al fresco Gala Dinner Buffet under the stars at River Cafe & Terrace or at The Peninsula Lawn; a five-course Thai set menu at Thiptara; or a five-course Western set menu at the Lobby Terrace; plus beverage packages ranging from free-flow soft drinks, to free-flow local beers and house wines, to free-flow champagne and premium wines. If you wish to stay at the luxe resort after dinner, book a superior room ahead and you will receive a complimentary dinner buffet for two people at The Lawn.
For more information and for their price list, visit: www.peninsula.com/en/bangkok/5-star-luxury-hotel-riverside

The iconic and sprawling Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is hosting a Four Seasons Fair today to celebrate the occasion. Enjoy a range of fun activities and entertainment as you watch the fireworks over the river, while snacking on nibbles from the hotel’s F&B outlets, and indulging in tipples from the much-acclaimed BKK Social Club. Afterwards, float your krathong in their Central Courtyard as you make your wishes to the water goddess.
Time: 6pm to 10pm
Price: THB 5,500 net per adult, THB 2,500 net per child aged 6-12, free for children under 6 years old
For more information, visit their Facebook: @FourSeasonsHotelBangkok

If you’re planning on staying at the heart of Sukhumvit for Loy Krathong, make your way to Goji Kitchen + Bar on the Ground floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park for a one-of-kind Thai buffet experience, in the spirit of a Thai temple fair. The fair will feature some of Bangkok’s most famed street food dishes, including Siah-duck noodles, Fuwong Hainanese chicken rice, and Je noi garlic. Expect plenty of fresh seafood, classic Thai dishes, and an array of appetising desserts, as well as live cooking and carving stations, and a sizzling barbecue.
Time: 5.30pm to 10pm
Price: THB 1,689++ per person, 50 percent off for children aged 6-12 years old
For more information, call 02 059 5999 or visit their Facebook page: @GojiKitchenAndBar

If you’re looking to celebrate by the beach instead, head down to So Sofitel Hua Hin, where you can make your own eco-friendly krathong from 3pm to 6pm (or simply purchase one for THB 180), then set it afloat in a memorable traditional ceremony by the pool at 6pm. For more information, click here