Chiang Mai is a hot spot among global visitors as it is regarded as a destination where travelers can experience a more authentic side of Thailand. Compared to the bustling capital city of Bangkok, Chiang Mai offers a slower pace of life, a vibrant night bazaar, local markets, and opportunities to engage with local communities and traditions. Especially during the end of year period, Chiang Mai experiences a significant influx of visitors who come to attend the highly popular and enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival.
Things you should know about the Yi Peng Lantern Festival
In Yi Peng, Yi means ‘two’ and Peng means ‘full moon day’, which relates to the date of celebration. The festival is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions and beliefs, symbolizing the release of worries and troubles, and the pursuit of good fortune. The festival attracts both domestic and international tourists who come to witness and participate in this extraordinary event, making it a highlight of Chiang Mai’s cultural calendar and a cherished memory for those who attend.
It provides a captivating and immersive experience, allowing participants to release their own sky lanterns (khom loi) and seeing the sky filled with thousands of glowing lights as it will be shown on viral posts on social media in this period!
In addition to lanterns, some festivals also incorporate the floating of krathongs. A krathong is a small, decorated raft made of natural materials, such as banana leaves and flowers. Floating a krathong on water symbolizes releasing negativity and making wishes for the future.
When will the Yi Peng Lantern Festival be held?
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai is typically held on the full moon night of the Twelfth Lunar month, which usually falls in November. However, it’s important to note that the exact dates may vary from year to year as they are determined by the Lunar calendar.
In 2024, Yi Peng Lantern Festival will be organized on 15 Nov – 16 Nov, right after the Loi Krathong Lantern Festival on November 16.
Where to attend and enjoy Yi Peng Lantern Festival
The main site for lantern release is at Mae Jo University which occupies more than 3000 people, while smaller-scale lantern releases and celebrations take place throughout Chiang Mai during the festival. These smaller events can be found at temples, cultural centers, and even in local communities. Nowadays, you can buy tickets to attend the festival which are sold through licensed tourism agencies, authorization, and the price can go up to $300 USD.
Here are some famous locations you can refer to:
- Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival (three ticket classes available: Standard, VIP, and Premium 4 600-6 400 Baht)
Address: CAD Cultural Center Lanna Ethnicity. Kland Sub-district, Mae On District, Chiang Mai
- Ping River (Free)
Address: Nawarat Bridge, Charoen Mueang Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Chiang Mai Mueang District, Chiang Mai
- The Three Kings Monument (Free)
Address: Phra Pok Klao Street, Si Phum Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
- Lanna Dhutanka (near Maejo University) also known as Yee Peng Lanna International event (Ticket price from 5 500-12 000 Baht)
Address: Nong Han Sub-district, San Sai District, Chiang Mai
- Doi Saket Hot Springs (Ticket price from 3.100 – 4.900 Baht)
Address: Pa Miang, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai
Tips to enjoy the festival to the fullest
- Book your flights, accommodations, and event tickets early to secure your spot and avoid last-minute hassles.
- Arrive well in advance to secure a good viewing spot as popular venues can become crowded.
- The lantern’s paper is quite thin, so hold it carefully in order not to tear it.
- Dress comfortably and modestly.
- Ensure your safety and the safety of others by adhering to any safety guidelines provided by event organizers.
- Bring your camera or smartphone and find the best angles to capture the magical moments of the lantern release.
Save it to your bucket list now and hope you have a truly awe-inspiring experience at the Yi Peng Lantern Festival!
