During the last few days, we have heard noises resembling gunshots and car backfires. Sometimes, the noises have been only a few minutes apart and other times hours would go by before another blast was audible. It was a bit unnerving, especially when one would occur near us.
Yesterday, we finally figured out that the noises were fireworks and that they were for the Loy Krathong festival. Also known as Yipeng, the festival was celebrated to 1) give thanks to Mae Kong Kha (the ancient water goddess) for the rainy season, and 2) honor the Buddha’s top-knot, which he cut off when he became an ascetic. Normally, thousands of candles are floated down rivers and canals in lotus-leaf boats however the government requested that each family only release one candle boat in fear that the lit candles may find their way into someone’s flooded home and possibly catch fire.
As happy as we are to be a part of the celebration, we will be very happy once the firework blasts are finished.
Yesterday, we finally figured out that the noises were fireworks and that they were for the Loy Krathong festival. Also known as Yipeng, the festival was celebrated to 1) give thanks to Mae Kong Kha (the ancient water goddess) for the rainy season, and 2) honor the Buddha’s top-knot, which he cut off when he became an ascetic. Normally, thousands of candles are floated down rivers and canals in lotus-leaf boats however the government requested that each family only release one candle boat in fear that the lit candles may find their way into someone’s flooded home and possibly catch fire.
As happy as we are to be a part of the celebration, we will be very happy once the firework blasts are finished.
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