The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is one of the most essential and breathtaking festivals celebrated in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is an integral part of the Lanna cultural tradition in Northern Thailand. The festival is also famous for its other name, the Sky Lantern Festival tourists.
During this festival, thousands of lotus-shaped lanterns are released into the sky, creating a mesmerizing display of lights and colors. The festival is a time for locals and visitors alike to make merit and express gratitude. The main area where you can witness the charm of this festival is Nawarat Bridge. I am sharing my experience as I have witnessed the Thailand lantern festival firsthand.

History of the Lantern Festival

The origins of Yi Peng can be traced back centuries to the ancient Lanna kingdom. It was traditionally marked by the worshipping of Buddha’s footprint on Doi Suthep mountain near Chiang Mai.
Over time, the festival evolved into releasing khom loi (floating lanterns) into the night sky as a symbol of apology to Phra Upakhut, one of Buddha’s noble disciples.
Thus, lamp festival thailand is celebrated to honor cultural and religious traditions, illuminate darkness, and foster community unity.

When Is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2024?

Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2024 : 15-16th November
Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2025 : 24th-25th November

According to the traditional Thai Lanna lunar calendar, this auspicious festival is celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th month. In the Gregorian calendar, it typically occurs in November.

What Happens at Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai?

In the days leading up to the full moon night, locals and visitors engage in making khom loi (sky lanterns) from oiled rice paper. These lotus-shaped lanterns are intricately decorated with beautiful patterns and designs. Krathongs (floating baskets/rafts) adorned with flowers, incense and candles are also prepared. As dusk falls on the full moon evening, festivities begin across Chiang Mai. People gather at temples, public spaces and along the riverbanks to take part in the ceremonies and celebrations.

Once the moon is up, the khom loi lanterns are lit from within using a candle or fuel cell. After making a wish, participants release their lanterns into the sky, creating a dazzling display of thousands of glowing lanterns taking flight. Simultaneously, the decorated krathong baskets are carefully set afloat on rivers, lakes and moats. Traditional music, dance performances and stalls selling local delicacies add to the vibrant atmosphere. The highlight is the breathtaking sight of the night sky illuminated by the sea of floating lanterns. The festivities continue late into the night, celebrating the release of negativity and spreading brightness for the future.

What Are the Ticket Prices For the Sky Lantern Festival?

Sky Lantern Festival tickets range from 4,700 to 6,500 baht (about $135-190). The price includes roundtrip transfer from Chiang Mai, entrance to the festival with an assigned seat, a dinner buffet, a show featuring Lanna dancers and chanting monks, and, of course, lanterns for the big release.
The more expensive VIP tickets offer seats closer to the circular stage, a more private dining area, and better transfer options. However, I recommend sticking with the basic ticket. Even with VIP transfers, you’ll likely face the same traffic, and the extra comfort of a minivan over a songthaew may not justify the price difference.

Highlights/Important Rituals of Lantern Festival Chiang Mai

Following are some of the most rituals performed during the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival:

• Making khom loi lanterns from oiled rice paper
• Decorating the lanterns with beautifully crafted patterns and designs
• Preparing krathong (floating baskets/rafts) decorated with flowers, incense and candles
• At night, lighting the khom loi and Krathong before release
• Releasing the khom loi lantern into the sky while making a wish for good luck
• Launching the Krathong baskets onto rivers, lakes, or streams
• Joining in the vibrant cultural shows and festivities across Chiang Mai
• The thailand lantern festival symbolizes letting go of grudges, anger and defilements to make way for peace and happiness in life.

Summary

Chiang Mai is Most beautiful and scenic tourist attraction in Thailand. There are loads of old temples there that are really cool to check out. These temples show off Thailand’s awesome culture and amazing architecture. If you love lights and colors, yes lantern festival of Chiang Mai is a must-attend festival for you. Chiang Mai offers the most authentic and picturesque setting to witness this ancient festival. You can engage in lantern making, join monk chanting ceremonies, and marvel at the spectacular sea of lantern lights in the sky.