Loy Krathong 2025: How to Experience Thailand's Magical Festival of Lights!

Loy Krathong 2025: How to Experience Thailand's Magical Festival of Lights!

Raise your cups, Chiang Mai! On November 3, 2025, the festive hustle and bustle surrounding the legendary Loy Krathong Festival begins, which will be particularly impressive this year. Every year during the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar, thousands of brilliant lights are placed in the rivers of Thailand for the water goddess Phra Mae Khongkha. With a colorful mix of tradition and party spirit, the so-called “Festival of Lights” attracts visitors from all over the world and creates a magical atmosphere in the city.

The celebrations include the remarkable release of krathongs – fluting baskets made from banana leaves decorated with flowers, candles and incense sticks. This ritual symbolizes letting go of negative thoughts and finding happiness in the coming year. The Loy Krathong Festival is not only a colorful affair but also a deep-rooted cultural event that attracts many travelers. In Chiang Mai, the experience is further enhanced by the famous sky lanterns.

Yi Peng and his magic

In Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng Festival, which has its origins in the ancient Lanna Kingdom, is also celebrated parallel to the Loy Krathong. During this special event, the sky lanterns, also known as Khom Loi, rise into the sky. The idea of ​​releasing hundreds of lanterns together gives the festival a magical touch. The symbiosis of flowing krathongs and floating lanterns creates an atmosphere that reflects the deeper meaning of letting go and new beginnings.

Of particular note are the ceremonies that take place at temples such as Wat Phan Tao and Wat Lok Moli, where prayers and songs light up the night sky. On November 11th and 12th, the lanterns are happily sent into the air, bathing the entire area in a warm, golden light.

Tips for festival visitors

For those who want to experience the festival, here are some useful tips: It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance as Loy Krathong and Yi Peng attract large crowds. Early birders can snag flights to Chiang Mai for as little as 1 million baht (round trip), but prices rise quickly as the festival approaches. For safety reasons, the local government has tightened the rules for lighting lanterns, so one should follow the prescribed safety guidelines when lighting them.

We also recommend using eco-friendly lanterns and participating in organized release zones. This helps ensure that the celebrations are not only a sensual experience, but also environmentally conscious. Offline communities and local temples often offer free community celebrations, which are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

For travelers who prefer a hassle-free stay, it's best to plan early and check out helpful apps like eSIM to ensure quick navigation and instant sharing of the magical moments. Don't forget to keep an eye on the weather - the dry season is beginning and promises pleasant temperatures for the upcoming festival.

So if you are in Chiang Mai in the coming days, expect unforgettable experiences and be enchanted by the beauty and diversity of this unique festival!

Read more about the Loy Krathong Festival on Travel and Tour World, you can get more information about Yi Peng on Tinhte and discover the twin festivals in Thailand Eskimo Travel.