Every year, Chiang Mai comes alive with a magical glow during the Lantern Festival – a celebration that lights up the sky with thousands of floating lanterns. Known locally as Yi Peng, this event features lanterns being released into the air beneath a sky ablaze with golden light.
Picture yourself surrounded by music, cultural performances, traditional Lanna cuisine, and the warm glow of lanterns – it's pure magic! Choose ticket options that include pick-ups and drop-offs from your hotel and immerse yourself in the festival without worrying about logistics.
What is the Yi Peng festival?
The Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai is a picturesque celebration of light, culture, and spirituality. Its roots can be traced to the ancient Lanna Kingdom in northern Thailand. Yi Peng is observed during the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar, typically falling in November. The festival is intertwined with Buddhist traditions, symbolizing the release of misfortunes and the illumination of one’s path toward enlightenment.
Central to the festivities are the khom loy (sky lanterns), crafted from rice paper and bamboo, which are released into the night sky. This act is believed to carry away bad luck and bring good fortune. In addition to the lanterns, participants decorate their homes with khom fai (hanging lanterns) and phang pratheep (small candles), creating a luminous tapestry throughout the city. Along with the lanterns, those who visit the festival can enjoy traditional dance performances, delicious Thai food, and a captivating sense of community.
What to expect at the Chiang Mai lantern festival?
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A night under the lanterns
Watch thousands of glowing lanterns float into the night sky (including the ones you release), creating a breathtaking sea of light that feels like a dream come to life.
Colorful street celebrations
Experience lively parades, traditional dances, and bustling night markets filled with delicious Thai street food and handmade crafts.
Spiritual and cultural richness
Join locals in prayers, releasing lanterns for good luck, and witnessing ancient Lanna rituals that honor Thailand’s heritage.
A unique river ceremony
Admire the shimmering krathong (small floating baskets) drifting along the Ping River, adding a serene glow to the festive atmosphere.
Delightful cultural performances
Be mesmerized by graceful Fon Leb (traditional Lanna dances), rhythmic drum shows, and soulful folk music that bring Chiang Mai’s history to life.
Authentic Lanna cuisine
Savor bold Northern Thai dishes like khao soi (coconut curry noodles), sai oua (herb-packed sausage), and sweet kanom krok (coconut pancakes) at festive food stalls.
Your Chiang Mai lantern festival ticket options
If you want a budget-friendly festival experience
Price: THB 5000
Round-trip transfers: Included (from a common point)
Dinner: Thai buffet dinner at Kad Mua Market
Additional sky lantern: No
This ticket offers a chance to experience the lantern festival that is easy on the pocket! Get access to the festival, 2 sky lanterns, pick-up and drop-off from a common point, and a delicious buffet dinner in a rustic and charming setting.
Recommended experience
Chiang Mai Sky Lantern Festivals 2025 (Gold Ticket)
If you want a luxury festival experience
If you want a luxury festival experience
Price: THB 7500
Round-trip transfers: Included (from your hotel)
Dinner: Premium dinner at a restaurant
Additional sky lantern: Yes
Indulge in the festival with ultimate comfort and exclusivity. This premium ticket includes seamless hotel pick-ups and drop-offs (no waiting at common points), as well as a lavish multi-course dinner featuring authentic local delicacies in a restaurant setting, far exceeding a standard buffet. You’ll also release an additional sky lantern, making your evening even more memorable and auspicious.
Recommended experience:
Chiang Mai Sky Lantern Festivals 2025 (Platinum Ticket)
If you want to experience 2 festivals for the price of 1
Price: starts from THB 4,000
Round-trip transfers: Yes (either in van or cab)
Dinner: Yes (either in regular or premium zone)
Complimentary krathong: Yes
Enjoy the experience of releasing a krathong in the river to mark the Loy Krathong festival while also celebrating Yi Peng. This ticket offers the best of both festivals while including snacks, cold drinks, and a handicraft station. Opt for the Platinum ticket if you want cab transfers, meals in an exclusive buffet zone, and front row seats to cultural shows.
Plan your visit to the Chiang Mai lantern festival
The Chiang Mai lantern festival will take place on November 5 and 6, 2025. The celebrations start in the afternoon, around 2 pm, and wind up at 9 pm.
Most lantern festival tickets come with round-trip transfers, either from your hotel or a common point. Here are a few ways to get to popular festival venues from Chiang Mai:
CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival (CAD Field, Doi Saket)
By car: Take Route 118 heading north and turn onto Route 3005 towards Doi Saket. Follow signs for “CAD Khom Loy Sky Lantern Festival”.
Grab/private taxi: Booking a private taxi can be pricey, especially during the festival days, but it is the easiest way to get to the venue.
Chiang Mai Heritage Sky Lantern Festival (Rock n’ River, Doi Saket)
By car: Take a similar route as you would to the CAD Field – Route 118 and turn near Mae Takhrai National Park area.
Grab/private taxi: Taking a private taxi from Old City in Chiang Mai is hassle-free despite being expensive.
Moonlight Sky Lantern Festival (I Love Ban Thi, Lamphun)
By car: Head south on Route 11 toward Lamphun. Exit at Ban Thi and follow local signs.
Train or bus to Lamphun + Grab: You can take a local train or a Yellow Songthaew to Lamphun and take a Grab taxi from there (15 min ride to Ban Thi).
Heaven Sky Lantern Festival (Suan Sawan Garden)
By car: Drive from Chiang Mai (usually Route 11 or 106) and follow signs toward Mae On District. Head northeast and follow festival signs directing you to “Heaven Lantern Festival at The Garden.”
By shared taxi: You can hire a shared songthaew (red pickup taxi) from the mall or the city. These cost roughly THB 100 to 200 per person.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (15 km from city center): This sacred temple offers panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Old City (1 km from city center): Home to several ancient temples and cultural landmarks.
Night Bazaar (1 km from city center): A vibrant market where you can shop for unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and enjoy local street food.
Make sure to release lanterns only in approved festival zones to avoid fire hazards and airport interference.
Follow the scheduled lantern release times (often between 7 pm and 9 pm). Guests are not permitted to release lanterns before or after this time frame.
Be mindful of alcohol consumption before releasing the lantern, as some venues prohibit it.
If the event venue is near a temple, dress modestly and be considerate of local residents’ beliefs.
Avoid stepping on or damaging lanterns that have landed, as it is believed they carry prayers.
If a lantern fails to launch, dispose of it in designated bins.
Unauthorized drones are prohibited on festival grounds.
Book accommodation early: Due to the festival, most hotels fill up quickly, so make your hotel reservations as soon as possible.
Dress appropriately: Evenings can be cool, so carry a jacket. It is also advisable to dress modestly because the lantern festival is a religious event.
Proper lantern launching technique: Hold the lantern open for 30-60 secs before launching so it fills up with air. Release it at a 45 degree angle for a smooth ascent.
Carry change: Vendors might not accept cards so carry cash and change in small amounts.
Respect customs: Avoid pointing your feet at monks and the lanterns as it is considered disrespectful.
Stay hydrated: Carry a bottle of water and secure your belongings, as pickpocketing is common in densely crowded areas.
Frequently asked questions about the Chiang Mai lantern festival
The festival is held at the CAD Cultural Center Lanna in Mae On District, Chiang Mai. Other venues that have similar festival events include the Cowboy Army Riding Club, Lamphun province, and Doi Saket.
The Chiang Mai Sky Lantern Festival happens during the full moon of the second month of the Lanna lunar calendar, which typically falls in November.
You can easily reach the festival venue via the shuttle services provided by Payap University to the event site. Alternatively, red cabs are available after the event to take visitors back to popular locations like Maya Shopping Mall and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. For a hassle-free experience, opt for tickets that include round-trip transfers.
Standard/Gold tickets start at THB 5000, while Premium tickets start at THB 6000. Prices may vary depending on what is included in the ticket.
Yes, the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival is family-friendly. Children under 8 can attend for free, but they will not receive extra lanterns or souvenirs.
Standard Tickets include 2 sky lanterns, access to the food zone, non-alcoholic beverages, and a handicrafts station. Premium Tickets provide access to a luxury food zone, hotel transfers, an extra sky lantern, and front-row seating for cultural performances.
The festival typically lasts 6-7 hours and includes activities such as lantern releases, food, and cultural performances.
While you can sometimes purchase tickets on the day of the event, it’s strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and secure the best ticket type for your experience.
Be sure to bring comfortable clothing for the outdoor setting, especially if you plan on walking or standing for long periods. Also, bring a camera or phone to capture the breathtaking moments. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket as it can get cool in the evening.
There’s no strict dress code, but since the festival takes place outdoors, it’s recommended to dress comfortably and consider the weather. If you plan to sit on the ground or on platforms, be mindful of your attire for comfort.
The festival begins at 2 p.m. and continues until 9 p.m. The lantern release typically happens after sunset, so it's best to arrive early to enjoy the full experience.
Yes, food and beverages are available at various food zones depending on your ticket type. There are standard food zones for general ticket holders and VIP food zones for those with upgraded tickets.
No, pets are not allowed at the festival to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all guests.
Chiang Mai Lantern FestivalCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
Get 3 instead of 2 sky lanterns and additional upgrades to hotel pick-ups and drop-offs for a seamless festival experience.
Best for: Ideal for travelers who want an immersive Thai cultural adventure, complete with hands-on workshops, dazzling performances, and the magical sight of lanterns lighting up the riverside sky.
Everything you get: Entry to the festival, traditional Thai buffet, cultural performances, hands-on crafts workshops, 2 sky lanterns, non-alcoholic drinks, and pick-up and drop-off from a common meeting point.
Activities: Craft your own banana leaf cups and candles, savor authentic Northern Thai flavors, and witness breathtaking performances before sending wishes skyward with your glowing lanterns.
Upgrades: Upgrading to Platinum ticket means 1 more lantern, gourmet local dishes, a curated keepsake, and hotel transfers pickup - making it the ultimate way to experience this enchanting festival. Grab early bird tickets now – limited availability!
Inclusions
#
Entry to the festival
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (as per option selected)
Pick-up and drop-off at common point (as per option selected)
Traditional Thai buffet dinner at Kad Mua Market (as per option selected)
Premium dinner at restaurant (as per option selected)
Non-alcoholic beverages
Candle-making & handicrafts workshop
2 or 3 sky lanterns (as per option selected)
Exclusions
#
Personal expenses
This experience is not suitable for guests with mobility issues.
Pets are not allowed on this experience.
Children under the age of 6 years are eligible for free entry.
Buy early bird tickets at discounted rates till July 31, 2025.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Experience the Loy Krathong Festival with a sky lantern release, traditional Thai dinner & cultural performances under the moonlight.
Best for: Culture-loving travelers, couples, and photographers seeking a magical night of lantern-lit skies, krathong floats, and festive energy at Thailand’s iconic Loy Krathong Festival.
Everything you get: Festival entry, 2 free lanterns, 1 krothang (small floating basket), handicraft activities, all you can eat Thai buffet dinner, round-trip transfers, insurance, and eaccess to cultural performances.
Activities: Launch your lantern into the night sky, set your krathong adrift, dance to live music, and marvel at the dazzling fireworks display.
Upgrades: Opt for platinum tickets for front-row seats to the cultural shows, round-trip cab transfers, and a delicious dinner from the exclusive food zone!
Inclusions
#
Entry to the festival
Front row seat (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers on RED Cab (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers in van (as per option selected)
2 sky lanterns
1 krathong (small decorative float made of banana leaves)
Thai buffet at special/regular food zone (as per option selected)
Thai snacks
Water & soft drinks
Accident insurance
Cultural shows
Handicraft activities
Exclusions
#
Tips & gratuities
Personal expenses
Pets are not allowed on this experience.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
This experience is not suitable for this with mobility impairments.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tickets
Chiang Mai Sky Lanterns Festival 2025
Get 3 instead of 2 sky lanterns and additional upgrades to hotel pick-ups and drop-offs for a seamless festival experience.
Best for: Ideal for travelers who want an immersive Thai cultural adventure, complete with hands-on workshops, dazzling performances, and the magical sight of lanterns lighting up the riverside sky.
Everything you get: Entry to the festival, traditional Thai buffet, cultural performances, hands-on crafts workshops, 2 sky lanterns, non-alcoholic drinks, and pick-up and drop-off from a common meeting point.
Activities: Craft your own banana leaf cups and candles, savor authentic Northern Thai flavors, and witness breathtaking performances before sending wishes skyward with your glowing lanterns.
Upgrades: Upgrading to Platinum ticket means 1 more lantern, gourmet local dishes, a curated keepsake, and hotel transfers pickup - making it the ultimate way to experience this enchanting festival. Grab early bird tickets now – limited availability!
Chiang Mai Moonlight Yi Peng & Loy Krathong Festival 2025
Experience the Loy Krathong Festival with a sky lantern release, traditional Thai dinner & cultural performances under the moonlight.
Best for: Culture-loving travelers, couples, and photographers seeking a magical night of lantern-lit skies, krathong floats, and festive energy at Thailand’s iconic Loy Krathong Festival.
Everything you get: Festival entry, 2 free lanterns, 1 krothang (small floating basket), handicraft activities, all you can eat Thai buffet dinner, round-trip transfers, insurance, and eaccess to cultural performances.
Activities: Launch your lantern into the night sky, set your krathong adrift, dance to live music, and marvel at the dazzling fireworks display.
Upgrades: Opt for platinum tickets for front-row seats to the cultural shows, round-trip cab transfers, and a delicious dinner from the exclusive food zone!
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