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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.
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.
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.
Experience lively parades, traditional dances, and bustling night markets filled with delicious Thai street food and handmade crafts.
Join locals in prayers, releasing lanterns for good luck, and witnessing ancient Lanna rituals that honor Thailand’s heritage.
Admire the shimmering krathong (small floating baskets) drifting along the Ping River, adding a serene glow to the festive atmosphere.
Be mesmerized by graceful Fon Leb (traditional Lanna dances), rhythmic drum shows, and soulful folk music that bring Chiang Mai’s history to life.
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.
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.
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Get 3 instead of 2 sky lanterns and additional upgrades to hotel pick-ups and drop-offs for a seamless festival experience.
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
Experience the Loy Krathong Festival with a sky lantern release, traditional Thai dinner & cultural performances under the moonlight.
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
Launch lanterns in an exclusive mass release ceremony with prime seating and a traditional Lanna buffet dinner.
Inclusions
Entry to CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival
2 sky lanterns
1 floating krathong
Round-trip transfers from a common point (as per option selected)
Traditional Thai Lanna buffet with non-alcoholic beverages
Hand-painted souvenir in a small bag
Exclusions
