Every November, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival lights up Thailand’s night skies with thousands of glowing lanterns. Each lantern carries a wish, a dream, or a message of hope as it drifts gently upward. The sight is peaceful, spiritual, and truly unforgettable.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a festival that blends culture, beauty, and meaning, this is the one. In this Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2025 travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know — from dates and locations to travel tips and traditions.
When will the Yi Peng Lantern Festival be Held?
In 2025, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival will be held from 5th November to 6th November. The dates may slightly shift depending on the Thai lunar calendar, as the festival traditionally aligns with the full moon of the twelfth lunar month.
This timing makes it one of the most anticipated autumn festivals in Thailand, when the weather is cool, the nights are clear, and the glow of thousands of lanterns creates a truly unforgettable sight.
What is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a magical celebration in northern Thailand. During this festival, people release sky lanterns, called Khom Fai, to send their wishes for happiness, love, and luck. Each lantern has a bamboo frame, rice paper, and a small candle.
When lit, it floats gently into the sky, lighting up the night. Chiang Mai is the best place to celebrate the festival. Couples often release lanterns together, praying for love and happiness.
The Reason Behind Celebrating the Yi Peng Lantern Festival
The story of sky lanterns in Thailand traces back to the ancient Lanna Kingdom in northern Thailand. According to legend, the Lanna people released lanterns into the sky to honor Phra That Kaew Chulamanee, a sacred Buddha relic believed to rest in the highest heaven. Since the relic couldn’t be reached physically, lanterns became their way of sending prayers and devotion upward — carrying hopes, gratitude, and good wishes toward the heavens.
Over time, this beautiful act of worship evolved into the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of glowing lanterns illuminate the night sky in a stunning display of faith and light. Today, homes and temples across Chiang Mai and nearby regions are decorated with lanterns and small candles known as Phang Pratheep, keeping the tradition alive.
How to Book Tickets for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
To attend the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, you’ll need to purchase an official e-ticket from an authorized travel agent or directly through the official Yi Peng Lantern Festival website. Tickets often sell out weeks in advance, so it’s best to book early to secure your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Most Yi Peng Festival tickets include:
- Entry to the official lantern release event (such as Mae Jo University or Chiang Mai Aerodrome).
- Two eco-friendly sky lanterns per person (approved and safe for release).
- Traditional Thai dinner or light refreshments.
- Cultural performances such as traditional Lanna music, Thai dance, and local rituals.
- Buddhist blessing ceremony before the lantern release.
- Round-trip transfers from designated meeting points (for premium tickets).
- Photography or souvenir opportunities at the event venue.
Things to do in Yi Peng Lantern Festival
There’s so much more to Yi Peng Lantern Festival Thailand 2025 than just lighting lanterns—it’s a celebration of light, culture, and community. Here are the top things to do during this lantern festival.
1. Release Sky Lanterns (Khom Loi)
The main event of Yi Peng is the release of thousands of glowing Khom Loi lanterns into the night sky. As they rise and disappear among the stars, they symbolize letting go of past misfortunes and welcoming good fortune ahead. Watching the sky fill with soft golden lights is nothing short of breathtaking—it’s one of the best things to do in Thailand.
2. Attend the Lantern Procession
Don’t miss the Yi Peng lantern parade, one of the most beautiful parts of the festival. Here, locals dressed in elegant Lanna costumes walk through Chiang Mai’s ancient streets, carrying ornate lanterns and performing traditional dances. The rhythmic music, glowing lights, and cultural spirit make this parade one of the most mesmerizing sights during Thailand’s lantern festivals.
3. Visit the Temples
To truly connect with the spiritual side of Yi Peng, visit Chiang Mai’s famous temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep or Wat Lok Molee. During the festival, locals gather here to make merit, release smaller lanterns, and offer prayers to monks. It’s a great way for travelers to experience authentic Thai traditions.
4. Enjoy Traditional Thai Performances
The entire city comes alive with music, dance, and cultural performances during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. From graceful Thai dance shows to live Lanna music, there’s something happening in every corner. These performances offer a deeper glimpse into northern Thailand’s culture.
Try Local Festival Food
No Thai celebration is complete without food! Wander through the street markets near Tha Phae Gate or the Ping River and sample northern Thai favorites like khao soi, grilled skewers, and mango sticky rice. Pair that with sweet coconut desserts and you’ve got a taste of Chiang Mai’s festive spirit.
Best Places to Celebrate the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
When it comes to celebrating the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Thailand, Chiang Mai takes the spotlight. The city bursts into color and light as locals and travelers gather to release thousands of glowing lanterns into the sky.
- Chiang Mai Old City
It’s the heart of the celebration! Streets burst with parades, music, and temple rituals. It’s the most vibrant and traditional place to join locals and travelers as they release thousands of khom loi (sky lanterns).
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
For a more peaceful and spiritual experience, head up to this mountaintop temple. With panoramic views of Chiang Mai below, it’s the perfect spot to release your lanterns in serenity.
- Ping River
The best place to enjoy Loy Krathong, which happens alongside Yi Peng. You can watch hundreds of krathongs (floating baskets) glide across the water while lanterns illuminate the night sky above — a true reflection of heaven meeting earth.
- Nimmanhaemin Road
Trendy cafes, boutique shops, and great viewpoints make this area ideal if you want a more modern twist to your Thailand lantern festival experience.
Dos and Don’ts of Yi Peng Lantern Festival
Do’s
- Carry a marker pen if you want to write your wish or name on your lantern.
- Bring a camera (without a tripod) to capture the breathtaking moment.
- Wear polite clothing — long pants, a T-shirt or polo that covers shoulders, or traditional Lanna Thai attire if you want to embrace the local spirit.
- Pack a light jacket, as Chiang Mai nights in November can get a little chilly (around 15–20°C).
- Attend the on-stage demonstration to learn how to launch your lantern safely.
Don’ts
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at the event — it’s strictly prohibited.
- Drones and tripods are not allowed at the venue.
- Don’t bring outside lanterns; only event-approved ones are permitted.
- Tickets are non-refundable under any circumstances, including weather issues or government orders.
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Final Note
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is more than just a visual spectacle—it’s a moment of mindfulness, beauty, and connection. When you see endless lanterns floating in the sky, you’ll understand why this event has captured the hearts of travelers around the world. Whether you join for the spiritual atmosphere, the stunning visuals, or the cultural immersion, Yi Peng offers an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after your trip to Thailand.
So, pack your bags, light your lantern, and let your wish take flight—because under the glowing skies of northern Thailand, magic truly happens!
FAQs
Why is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival celebrated?
Yi Peng is celebrated to honor Buddha and to symbolically let go of bad luck, anger, and misfortune. Releasing lanterns into the sky represents new beginnings and spiritual cleansing, a tradition rooted in the ancient Lanna Kingdom of northern Thailand.
Do I need tickets to attend the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
Yes, for the main lantern release events organized at specific venues, you’ll need to purchase tickets in advance.
Can tourists participate in releasing lanterns?
Absolutely! Tourists are encouraged to take part in lantern releases during the official events. Each participant usually gets one or two lanterns to release, along with guidance to ensure it’s done safely and respectfully.
Are there any safety rules or restrictions?
Yes, safety is a priority. Visitors are required to use eco-friendly lanterns approved by the event organizers. Alcohol, smoking, fireworks, and drones are strictly prohibited.
What’s the dress code for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
There is no dress code, but you’ll have to dress modestly and comfortably. Choose breathable fabrics as the weather is mild. Don’t forget to bring a light jacket for the cool evening breeze. Cover your shoulders and knees, especially if visiting temples.
