Loy Krathong Festival 

Issan Folk Dancing - "Loy" means "to float" and a "Krathong" is a lotus-shaped vessel made of banana leaves containing a candle, three joss-sticks, some flowers and coins. In fact, the festival is of Brahmin origin in which people offer thanks to the Goddess of the water. Thus, by moonlight, people light the candles and joss-sticks, make a wish and launch their Krathongs on canals, rivers or even small ponds. It is believed that the Krathongs carry away sins and bad luck, and the wishes that have been made for the new year due to start. Indeed, it is the time to be joyful and happy as the sufferings are floated away.... more photos to follow ...