Loy Krathong, one of British International School, Phuket’s most colourful and heartwarming Thai festivals, will be celebrated across the school next week.
On Friday 30 October, children in Little Ducks, Early Years and Primary will be making biodegradable krathongs and some year groups will be floating them in the pond outside the Main Teaching Building. Children may come to school in traditional Thai dress on the day if they wish. A special assembly featuring Thai dance and Muay Thai performances will also be held in the afternoon for Year 5 students. This will be live-streamed for parents and our community from 1.30 pm. The link will be shared via email prior to the event.
On Monday and Wednesday morning in Secondary, students will be taking Loy Krathong quizlets and may opt to join in with Thai games like jackstones and hopscotch over the lunchtime break. On Tuesday, Thai desserts will be on offer in the MTB at break time and on Friday students will make krathongs during tutor time. Loy Krathong painting will be held in the art room throughout the week at break and lunchtime.
Loy Krathong is celebrated for many reasons in Thai culture. Historically, it marks the end of the rainy season and is a way of paying homage to the water goddess. Beautiful, hand-made krathongs (rafts made with banana leaf and decorated with flowers, candles and incense) are released into the lakes and rivers around the country to signify new beginnings.
Loy Krathong may have particular significance for many given the events of this year, as the symbolic releasing of the krathongs is often viewed as a way of letting go of any negative thoughts or emotions.