Loi Krathong is celebrated annually throughout Thailand. The custom could be translated as Floating Decoration coming from the old tradition of floating decorations on a waterway. (Loi means 'to float', while krathong refers to the vessel itself). Traditional krathong are made from a banana tree trunk though modern ones are often made of bread as a bread krathong will disintegrate after a few days and can be eaten by fish. Banana stalk krathong are also biodegradable. Styrofoam krathongs are becoming less and less popular, as they take years to decompose. A krathong is decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, incense sticks and a candle. On the night of the full moon, Thais launch their krathong on a river, canal or a pond - making a wish as they do so. The festival originates from an ancient ritual paying respect to the water spirits.
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