Yi Peng Festival 2025: A festival of hope in Chiang Mai!

Yi Peng Festival 2025: A festival of hope in Chiang Mai!

The Chiang Mai municipal government today held a press conference for the 2025 Yi Peng Festival, a highlight in the region's cultural calendar, which will be celebrated from November 4th to 6th. The aim of the event, which took place in the foyer of the city's town hall, was to promote tourism and boost the local economy through cultural activities. Among those present were Chiang Mai Mayor Asanee Buranupakorn and Deputy Governor Chatchawan Panya. This shows how serious the city is about its preparations for this important festival and how important it is to them to bring visitors to the city.

This year’s theme is “Heritage of Nopphaburi, Continuing the Way of Wisdom”. Yi Peng, a traditional Lanna festival now over 700 years old, marks the end of the monsoon season and is celebrated every November. During the celebrations, thousands of khom loi, or sky lanterns, are released, symbolizing hope, wishes and new beginnings. Historically, the legend of the heavenly bird Phayung inspires this powerful tradition that touches the hearts of many people. This year, in addition to releasing lanterns, visitors can also take part in numerous cultural activities, which, as usual, shape the atmosphere of the festival.

Highlights and events

The festival also includes a design competition for the Lanna Forest Archway, as well as various ceremonies and competitions ranging from traditional craft techniques to cultural performances. Of particular note are the November 4 events, which begin with a white pagoda worship ceremony and culminate with the Lanna Yi Peng Lantern Competition at Thapae Gate Square. From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., visitors can also take part in the Yi Peng Chiang Mai Water Happiness activity, which takes place at various piers on the Chai Mongkol River.

Also scheduled throughout the festival are the significant Dhamma Settha Luang Ceremony and the Yi Peng Chiang Mai Goddess and God Contest, which are further cultural highlights. On November 6, the festival officially begins with an opening ceremony at Tha Phae Gate, followed by a grand krathong parade vying for the royal trophy. The culmination is a breathtaking light, sound and multimedia performance on the Mid-Ping River Stage.

Special features for visitors

For tourists, Yi Peng represents an invasion of colors and sounds that light up the cityscape. Traditionally, lantern releases are not held in the city center to comply with safety regulations. Instead, participants must book tickets in advance for organized lantern releases about 30km outside Chiang Mai. Popular places include the CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival and the Chiang Mai Authentic Sky Lantern events, which offer a cozy atmosphere.

In addition to the lantern releases, the festival also invites cultural performances and temple visits. Visitors can look forward to traditional music and dance performances as well as culinary delights. When planning their stay, tourists should look for accommodation in the Old Town, the riverside or the trendy Nimmanhaemin district to have the best festival experiences close by.

Overall, the 2025 Yi Peng Festival celebrations are expected to provide an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike, celebrating Chiang Mai's rich cultural history and strengthening community stewardship. Visit the city's official website to stay up to date and get more information about this spectacular event. You can find out more about this at Chiang Mai City Life, Highlights Travel and InterContinental Chiang Mai.