Thai water festival to light up Parramatta River

The Parramatta River foreshore will come alive with light, colour and energy for Sydney’s premier Thai festival, Loy Krathong on Saturday 14 November.

The Loy Krathong Festival in Parramatta is one of the largest festivals of its type outside of Thailand. The free festivities will be held between the Barry Wilde and Elizabeth Street Bridges from 4pm to 10pm and will include a host of traditional Thai demonstrations, craft exhibitions and performances from local Rarg Thai Band and international acts from Thailand.

The highlight of the evening will be the ritual of launching handmade candle-lit krathongs on the river at sunset, carrying wishes for good fortune and honouring the water spirits

“This is a wonderful event for families to enjoy, with a selection of activities, kid’s workshops including handmade krathongs and other traditional Thai crafts, and a great line up of performances for all to experience,” Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said.

“The display of the krathongs on the River is a unique and beautiful sight, and an opportunity to marvel in the cultural traditions of the Thai community.”

People will also be able to relax in the Thai Beer Garden and experience food from across South East Asia with the evening culminating in a spectacular fireworks and water fountain display following the launch of the krathongs.

Loy Krathong is a cultural experience made possible thanks to the partnerships with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Australia Association of New South Wales and a number of local businesses.