Loy Krathong/Yi Peng lantern festival (November)
Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are two overlapping northern-Thai celebrations held in November in Chiang Mai. Loy Krathong involves launching small decorated floating baskets (krathong) onto waterways to pay respect to the water spirits and symbolically release misfortune. Yi Peng is the northern Thai (Lanna) tradition of releasing paper sky lanterns (khom loi) into the night sky. In Chiang Mai the two festivals are celebrated together with temple ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, floating krathong on the Ping River and large organised and informal lantern releases across the city.
Location
Chiang Mai city — major activity sites include the Ping River, moat and canals, Tha Phae Gate area, various temples and organised venues (e.g., Mae Jo / concert grounds for ticketed releases), Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration
2–3 days of events with the main ceremonies and lantern release taking place on the full-moon night (usually a single main night in November). Festivals and associated markets/parades often run for several days.
Best Time to Visit
November — specifically the night of Loy Krathong/Yi Peng (full moon of the 12th lunar month). Book travel and accommodation early (months in advance) as Chiang Mai gets very busy.
Pricing
Public participation is generally free (walking the streets, viewing parades, temple ceremonies). Costs you may encounter: krathong workshops and materials 50–500 THB; organized lantern-release events or hotel/venue ticketed releases 300–2,000+ THB per person (prices vary by organizer); donation to temples and small travel/transport costs. Some large release events sell tickets and include lanterns, robes or offerings.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Mass sky lantern releases (Yi Peng) — thousands of illuminated khom loi filling the night sky
Floating krathong on the Ping River and city moats — traditional offerings with candles and incense
Temple ceremonies at major temples (e.g., Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for religious observances)
Cultural parades, traditional dance, Lanna costume displays and beauty contests
Night markets, street food and special festival markets selling krathong and lanterns
Organised ticketed release events for a controlled, coordinated lantern launch (photographer-friendly)
Photographic opportunities at vantage points and along the riverfront (sunset to late evening)
Itinerary
Arrival and orientation; visit night markets and pick up biodegradable krathong materials or join a krathong-making workshop.
Workshops are a good way to learn the tradition and ensure your krathong is environmentally friendly.
Explore temples (optional visit to Wat Phra Singh or Wat Chedi Luang) and prepare offerings.
Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) if entering temples.
Attend parades and cultural performances. Join a riverside or moat-side krathong floating at dusk; later participate in or observe sky lantern releases after dark.
Main event: plan for large crowds, check whether you want a ticketed lantern release (safer, organised) or the free public experience.
Recover with a relaxed morning—visit a cafe, walk the old city, visit Doi Suthep for quieter religious ceremonies.
Some lantern release sites host sunrise clean-up or community activities—support local eco-initiatives if possible.
Safety Requirements
Follow instructions from organisers for any ticketed lantern releases — coordinated launches reduce fire risk.
Be cautious with open flames: sky lanterns and candles can cause fires; keep a safe distance and avoid releasing lanterns near trees, dry fields, airports or densely built-up areas.
Check local regulations: some venues or years restrict lantern releases due to fire risk or air-traffic concerns.
Use biodegradable krathong — avoid styrofoam and plastics to prevent water pollution and harm to wildlife.
Be mindful of crowds: keep children close and agree on meeting points in case of separation.
If you have respiratory issues, be aware lantern smoke and fireworks may aggravate symptoms; bring masks if needed.
Tips
Book early. Hotels and organised lantern events sell out quickly—reserve weeks to months ahead for November.
Choose eco-friendly krathong. Buy or make krathong from banana leaf, banana trunk and natural materials to reduce pollution.
Consider a ticketed lantern release if you want a coordinated, photographer-friendly experience and included lanterns/instructions.
Bring cash. Small vendors, workshops and donations often only accept cash (THB).
Respect local customs. Remove shoes in temples, dress modestly for religious sites, and be respectful during ceremonies.
Safety-first photography. Use a tripod for low-light shots, secure gear in crowds, and avoid stepping into traffic or waterways for a better photo.
Check the weather and regulations the week of the event. Windy, rainy or official restrictions may cancel lantern releases.
Plan transport in advance. Traffic and road closures are common—allow extra time and use reputable taxis or pre-booked transfers.
Be environmentally responsible. Participate in or support local clean-up efforts and dispose of waste properly.
If traveling with children or elderly, pick a vantage point in advance (bridges, riverside parks or paid venues) for safer, less-crowded viewing.
