A festival of floating lotuses is coming to Canberra

Posted on 27 October, 2026

Thai food, floating lotuses, live music, traditional dance and a celebration of culture – Kambah is getting a little more colourful this October.

The Canberra Loy Krathong Festival returns to Ping Ping Thai Food on Saturday 31 October, bringing a day of food, fashion, live entertainment and cultural traditions to Canberra’s south.

Running from 11 am to 6 pm, the free festival welcomes everyone to join the celebrations, discover the traditions behind Loy Krathong and enjoy a full day of performances and activities.

So, what exactly is Loy Krathong?

There’s more to Loy Krathong than its beautiful floating flowers.

One of Thailand’s best-known cultural celebrations, Loy Krathong is traditionally observed around the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar. The celebration is associated with expressing gratitude to water and symbolising new beginnings, with many people viewing it as an opportunity to let go of negativity and welcome a fresh start.

Traditionally, people float decorated offerings called krathongs(often made with flowers and candles) on water. At the Canberra festival, visitors can enjoy a lotus activity while learning more about the traditions and cultural significance behind the celebration.

It’s a chance to experience a little of Thailand’s cultural heritage while discovering the meaning behind a festival celebrated across generations.

Thai dance, fashion and a little friendly competition

If you like your weekends with a side of entertainment, there’ll be plenty to keep you busy.

The festival’s program will feature a live band, a tribute show celebrating Thai rock musician Sek Loso, performances by local singers, traditional Thai dance and Thai boxing.

Fashion lovers can also look forward to a Thai fashion show, bringing another splash of colour to the festivities. Meanwhile, the Master and Little Miss Loy Krathong Pageant Competition will add another highlight to the day.

Whether you’re there for the music, the performances or simply to soak up the atmosphere, there’ll be plenty happening throughout the festival.

Go hungry, because Thai food is on the menu

Of course, no celebration of Thai culture would be complete without the food!

Ping Ping Thai Food will be serving its signature Thai favourites throughout the day, giving visitors the perfect excuse to grab a bite between performances.

Pair that with live music, cultural activities and a welcoming community atmosphere, and you have the ingredients for a Saturday well spent.

More than just a festival

Beyond the food and entertainment, the celebration is about sharing Thai heritage and bringing the Canberra community together.

Jettiphong Pingwongsa, President of the Thai Community of the ACT Incorporated, says the festival is an opportunity to preserve cultural traditions, pass them on to younger generations and welcome people from all backgrounds to experience Thai culture.

“Loy Krathong is more than just a festival. It is a celebration of gratitude, hope, and new beginnings,” he says.

For Pingwongsa, one of the most meaningful parts of the event is seeing people from different cultures come together, learn from one another and celebrate in harmony.

“What makes this festival truly special is seeing people from different cultures come together, sharing smiles, learning from one another, and celebrating in harmony.”

It’s a reminder that festivals can be about more than a day out. They create opportunities to share traditions, celebrate cultural identity and connect with people across the community.

Your Saturday plans? Sorted.

The best part? Entry to the Canberra Loy Krathong Festival and its cultural performances is free, and visitors are welcome to attend without purchasing food or drinks.

Some games and activities will also be free, while selected prize-based activities may involve a small fee. Food and drinks will also be available to purchase throughout the day.

So, gather your friends, bring the family or make it a weekend outing. With Thai food, music, fashion and cultural experiences all in one place, the Canberra Loy Krathong Festival is an opportunity to discover something new and celebrate the traditions that bring people together.

Images supplied.