Chiang Mai is in mourning: concerts canceled after Queen Sirikit's death

Chiang Mai is in mourning: concerts canceled after Queen Sirikit's death

Sad news is currently causing concerned faces in Chiang Mai. The provincial government has canceled the planned “Chiang Mai Music Journey” concert to pay respects to the late Queen Sirikit. On October 24, 2025, the Queen died at the Chulalongkorn Hospital at the age of 93, causing mourning across the country.

Out of respect for the Queen's memory, the main stage of the concert, which was originally scheduled for October 25th and 26th, 2025 in the Chiang Mai Provincial Botanical Garden, has already been dismantled. According to Thairath, some stores are also planning to remove their goods from the area. These measures came as the government ordered public institutions and schools to fly flags at half-mast for 30 days. Officials and public sector employees have also imposed a mourning period of one year.

Adjustments at Yi Peng Festival

The important Yi Peng Festival, traditionally celebrated in Chiang Mai in November, is also on the brink. The city administration is currently in the process of discussing possible adjustments to the festival activities to meet the current situation. The festival is scheduled for November 4th to 6th, 2025, with a variety of activities and competitions, according to Highlight Travel. Highlights include the release of thousands of paper lanterns, representing wishes and new beginnings.

Completely in line with the expression of mourning, the charity concert “Suan Dok Roi Duang Jai”, which was scheduled for the same day, will also not take place. While some events such as “TWILIGHT RUN 6” are going ahead as planned, some participants have chosen to wear black clothing as a sign of mourning, reflecting the general mood.

A look into the future

Despite everything, there remains hope for joy and communal celebration. The Yi Peng Festival is an important cultural event in Chiang Mai, attracting not only local but also international tourists. The preparations are a good sign that people believe in the beauty and tradition of this festival, even in difficult times. However, the ceremonial lantern releases will take place outside the city center, where safety protocols will be enforced to ensure everything goes smoothly.

The complexity of this situation brings the city's citizens and visitors closer together and shows how important solidarity is in times of grief. As we look to the coming months, we hope that the joy of the Yi Peng Festival brightens the hearts of the people of Chiang Mai and strengthens the spirit of community.