Sea of ​​lights in Chiang Mai: Yi Peng Festival enchants the city!

Sea of ​​lights in Chiang Mai: Yi Peng Festival enchants the city!

Things are about to get magical again in Chiang Mai as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival is just around the corner! From November 4th to 6th, 2025, the city will be transformed into a sea of ​​lights. This year’s theme, “A Heritage of Nopburi: Preserving Wisdom and Culture, Lanna Yi Peng to the World,” reflects the region’s rich tradition and culture. The main venues include Thapae Gate Plaza, Thapae Road, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Mae Kha Canal and Si Khong Pier, where every corner ensures an unforgettable experience reports that....

But what exactly can visitors expect? The highlights of the festival include a Grand Lantern Procession vying for the Royal Cup, as well as spectacular beauty pageants for adults and children. Another highlight is the Lanna Yi Peng lantern exhibition, which is complemented by lanterns made from banana leaves and a variety of Lanna arch stands. For moments big and small, there will be an impressive multimedia light and sound show on the Ping River as well as numerous activities under the motto “Happiness by the River” on the city's longest pier.

Cultural heritage and traditions

Yi Peng is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a deep-rooted part of northern Thai culture. It is celebrated at the same time as the country's famous Loy Krathong Festival, which brings people to release their wishes into the rivers in the form of floating lotus lanterns. While Yi Peng focuses on releasing sky lanterns, Loy Krathong symbolizes driving away bad luck and bringing blessings for the coming year explained …. Originally linked to ancient Lanna Buddhism, the tradition of releasing lanterns dates back to the legend of Princess Nang Nopphamat, who released the first lantern into the sky to edify her father.

Did you know that Yi Peng falls on the second day of the full moon and cleverly marks the end of the rainy season? The city of Chiang Mai is ablaze with color and decorated with different types of lanterns, including the popular Khom Kwaen, the smaller, colorful lanterns found everywhere proven ….

Tips for festival visitors

If you have the pleasure of being part of the festival this year, you should get your tickets early. These are available via trustworthy online platforms or directly from the organizers. However, due to safety precautions, releasing lanterns in the city center is not permitted - organized events outside the city are the safest way to enjoy the magical experience. Key locations include CAD (Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival), Chiang Mai Authentic Sky Lantern on a golf course and the tranquil Mae Jo University, which offers traditional, spiritual experiences.

Before you set off, remember to dress appropriately - respect is key, after all, the festival has a religious significance. So the preparations are in full swing and the anticipation is growing!

If you want to enjoy the full experience, you should also stay in the old town, where the various events are close. Alternatively, the Riverside district and Nimmanhaemin offer scenic options to end the day of the festival with a good meal and views of the Ping River.