Loy Krathong 2025: billions in sales and 1.9 million visitors expected!

Loy Krathong 2025: billions in sales and 1.9 million visitors expected!

The Loy Krathong Festival 2025 in Thailand is just around the corner and promises to be a cultural highlight. How Travel and Tour World reports, a notable increase in tourism revenue of over 6.54 billion baht (around US$184 million) is expected. Over 1.91 million visitors, local and international, could take part in the celebrations. The main events take place in the historic provinces of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, while major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Tak also host special celebrations.

Chiang Mai in particular is expected to be very popular. Loy Krathong, one of the country's most important festivals, is celebrated here together with the Yi Peng Festival. This year, however, the celebrations will take place in a more subdued atmosphere, reflecting the national mourning period for Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Large fireworks displays and entertainment are canceled; instead, organizers are focusing on elegant cultural experiences that express Thai heritage.

Expected effects on the economy

Loud The Thaiger Despite these cuts, the festival will generate a range of income. Estimates suggest that in Chiang Mai alone, the Loy Krathong Festival and the simultaneous Yi Peng Festival will reach almost 100% hotel occupancy. Room prices have increased by 10 to 15% compared to last year. Booking requests, particularly from European travelers, have been received months in advance. Many visitors also prefer stays in the scenic mountains surrounding the city.

Overall, the festival's impact on the local and national economy is estimated to be enormous. The total economic impact is estimated at over $200 million. This not only affects tourism, but also local businesses that benefit from the increased demand.

Tourism on the rise

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) points out that the conditions for a boom in domestic tourism are optimal. Despite the current financial challenges, a strong peak season is expected in Chiang Mai. The TAT forecasts a 9% increase in tourist numbers and a 12% increase in revenue compared to last year. The northern provinces in particular are considered the main attraction for travelers.

One of the reasons for the increase in international visitor numbers is the improvement in flight connections, especially from the Middle East. A new route from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai could mean even more tourists are expected from this region, supporting Chiang Mai as an emerging tourist destination. Thai Times highlights that the festival also serves as a symbol of Thailand's ability to attract tourists from all over the world. The development in the sector is more than promising.

Overall, everyone involved is optimistic about the upcoming celebrations. Loy Krathong 2025 is expected to not only promote the preservation of traditions, but also make a significant contribution to the economic recovery after the pandemic. It remains to be seen how the festival will develop this year - despite the reduced festivities - and what lasting impact it could have on the tourism sector.