The Most Amazing Festival in Thailand Is About To Light Up Your Life!
Loy Krathong (pronounced loi-kra-tong) and Yee Peng or Yi Peng (also known as The Festival of Lights), is the most special time of year and our favourite Thai traditional celebration. The night skies come alive with light, streets and homes are a glow in candlelight, and the river is filled with beauty and good-wishes.
The sounds of the night also come to life with fireworks!
Loy Krathong (also referred to as the Lantern Festival) is truly an event you will never forget and it just so happens Chiang Mai is one of the best and most popular cities to celebrate Yee Peng or Loy Krathong in all of Thailand.
This year the majority of Loy Krathong events will take place November 14th, 15th and 16th, 2024
Here is your all-in-one guide to Loy Krathong and the Yee Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai 2024!
Everything You Need To Know About Celebrating the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai 2024
Can you light lanterns in Chiang Mai?
This is the question everyone wants the answer to. The answer is yes, but no. There are restrictions in place as to where you can light lanterns.
Unfortunately, anywhere inside the downtown of Chiang Mai, including the river, is a no lighting lantern zone (although everyone seems to do it anyways and it’s incredible).
Any and all other areas in or near a flight path are also banned areas. In order to light a lantern, you’re going to have to travel outside of the city.
Will there be a mass lantern release in Chiang Mai this year?
There is only one advertised area where you will be allowed to light lanterns with throngs of other people. It will be in Doi Saket and it is a FREE event.
Do not get tricked into paying for any lantern events.
In Doi Saket and downtown Chiang Mai, you may have to pay for your lantern, but that should cost a couple hundred baht at most.
Please see events below to find out more!
Happy reading!
- What is Loy Krathong? What is the Yee Peng Festival?
- When is the Loy Krathong Festival and Yee Peng Festival in 2024?
- Best places to stay in Chiang Mai during Loy Krathong or the Festival of Light
- Is Loy Krathong a public holiday in Thailand?
- What are the best things to see and do during Yee Peng or Loy Krathong?
- What is the official schedule for Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai, Thailand 2024?
- How do you light a khom loi or sky lantern?
- Is The Festival of Lights, or Loy Krathong safe for children and families?
- Where are the best places in Chiang Mai to celebrate Loy Krathong?
- Will there be a fireworks show for Loy Krathong, Chiang Mai?
- Where can you get fireworks in Chiang Mai for Loy Krathong?
- What are the do’s and don’ts for Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai?
- How to get to Loy Krathong and Yee Peng events in Chiang Mai?
What is Loy Krathong? What is the Yee Peng Festival?
Celebrated every year, Loy Krathong is a festival in Thailand that falls on the full moon of the 12th month of the traditional Thai calendar (November to the rest of us!).
The festival itself was adapted from the Vedic religion in ancient Northern India to honour Buddha. It’s origination in Thailand is thought to have begun in Sukothai, which remains a very popular destination to celebrate Loy Krathong, and if you can, I definitely recommend you see the festivities there. There’s nothing like it! The event takes place within the ancient city ruins in Sukothai with performances and mass release of lanterns.
As for what Loy Krathong means, Loy (ลอย) means to float and krathong (กระทง) – well there is no direct English translation – is a floating decorative piece typically made with a banana tree base, covered in banana leaf, and decorated with flowers, incense and a candle.
Each part of a krathong has significance. The candle is a symbol respect for Buddha and it showers him with light. The three incense sticks (and please correct me if I’m wrong) are to pay respect to spirits, while the floating away of the krathong down the river symbolizes the letting go of emotions and forgiveness.
Floating the krathong is also a way many locals choose to thank the Goddess of Water for all that she provides. It’s all slightly ironic as while thanking her, they (and we) are polluting her waters at the same time. Unfortunately many krathongs are fixed together with metal pins and other non-biodegradable materials.
Look to buy the krathongs that are made from bread that are sure to degrade naturally.
The Yee Peng Festival (Yi Peng)
In Chiang Mai, Loy Krathong is often celebrated together wth Yee Peng (sometimes spelled Yi Peng). This is a Lanna (Northern Thai) festival. It is often referred to as The Festival of Light which falls on the full moon of the 2nd month of traditional Lanna calendar (November).
Yee (ยี่) means two and peng(เป็ง) means full moon day. The purpose of this traditional Lanna festival, is to make merit. This is largely done through a show of light! This is why many call it The Festival of Light.
During Yee Peng in Chiang Mai, you will see the night skies light up with khom loi ( โคมลอย), which translates quite literally to floating lantern. Because of this, some people refer to this event as The Lantern Festival.
Especially in downtown Chiang Mai, you can expect to see the sky fill with lanterns. The lanterns are made from thin rice paper that is stretched and glued to a bamboo frame. In the middle there will be a wire frame where you attach the fuel – a wax disc that has been soaked in fuel.
In addition, during the evening of the festival, many locals will decorate their houses and gardens with lit candles to make merit.
Around town you will also see those incredibly beautiful and colourful hanging lanterns. All the temples will be will a sight to see, as will the Three King’s Monument. These paper lanterns are called khom fai (โคมไฟ) and are all hand made.
When Is The Loy Krathong Festival And Yee Peng Festival In 2024?
Officially and according to traditional dates, Loy Krathong and Yee Peng will take place in Thailand over the dates of November 15th to the 16th, 2024. However, events will occur from November 14th to 16th.
The Festival of Lights, or lighting of the lanterns as well as the floating of the krathongs, will take place during all three evenings, although the full moon on the 15th will be the most auspicious.
Where Are The Best Places to Stay in Chiang Mai During Loy Krathong?
The best places to stay would be anywhere close to Narawat Bridge or the river near the old city. This way, nearly everything is within walking distance!
The next best area to stay in would be the old city itself which is where the most beautifully decorated temples are located. You’d also be close to Thapae Gate and Three Kings Monument where many events are happening for Loy Krathong.
Also know that staying a bit outside of the old city Chiang Mai isn’t a bad thing! In fact, you’ll get a totally different and more authentic experience than anyone else, especially if you stay near the river.
We suggest going into town for one of the nights, and asking your resort or hotel where the best local spot is for the other nights.
Many hotels and resorts book out early for Loy Krathong. We suggest looking through agoda.com to see what is available.
Is Loy Krathong a Public Holiday in Thailand?
No, it is not. Everything will be open as usual!
What Are The Best Things to See And Do During Yee Peng or Loy Krathong?
Well, the entire city will have events happening all over! The most popular and busiest areas will be near the old city and the river area will be an especially great place to hang out.
Best of all, many of these activities are completely FREE! See free Yee Peng and Loy Krathong events in Chiang Mai below.
1. Visit A Temple
Most of the wats (or temples) will also be holding celebrations. Wat Chedi Luang will be a must see. During the evenings of November 14th to 16th, 2024, many temples will be lit with colourful lanterns and candles. Monks will also be worshiping Buddha and paying respects through chanting. This is one of the most magical experiences during Yee Peng in Chiang Mai.
2. Enjoy A Performance
There will also be a traditional dance that occurs at The Three King’s Monument in downtown Chiang Mai.
3. Watch A Parade
Enjoy an incredible parade at night which can be seen from the Chiang Mai municipal office to Taepae Gate. This year it will take place on the evening of November 15th.
4. See The Night Light Up
At night, it will be such a memorable sight to see! The entire moat will be lit up by candles and gorgeous colourful lanterns. Usually The Three King’s Monument is the best spot to see the lit up hanging lanterns.
5. Light A Sky Lantern (khom loi)
The most exciting bit will probably be lighting off your very own lantern (khom loy) into the night sky! To learn how to light a sky lantern read on below. Also be aware that there are particular times and dates when you are allowed to light off a sky lantern.
For more details such as dates, places, and times, see our schedule for Yee Peng and Loy Krathong!
6. Send A Krathong Down The River
You can even make your very own krathong before sending it off down the river! Check out the events section below to learn more.
Along the river you will see dozens and dozens of stalls selling krathongs. They typically sell for between 20 to 200 baht, but rarely higher than that. They come fully decorated too! Although if you are interested in learning how to make one, some stall owners will take the time to show you and teach you!
To put your krathong into the river, look for designated bamboo walkways that go over the water and a line of people holding krathongs. You’ll need a lighter to light the incense and candles, so don’t be shy to ask the person near you to borrow theirs!
When you place your krathong into the water, make sure you get down low and carefully place it into the water. Then give the krathong a tiny shove. You don’t want it to hit the river’s edge or worse, flip over and sink! The goal is to get it into the river’s current so it floats away with your well wishes, hopes, and ideas of forgiveness.
7. Visit A Thai Carnival
If you happen to live or are staying outside of the city, keep an eye out for Thai carnivals! The carnivals will have lots of fun and addictive 20 baht games to play and even some rides too. You’ll have to decide how safe the carnival rides may be!
8. Watch The Fireworks!
There will be a fireworks show! Last year there was one every night, but we’re awaiting an announcement for 2024.
You’ll be able to see them along the river.
Official Schedule For Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai 2024.
The schedule for Loy Krathong Festival Chiang Mai November 14-16, 2024
* schedule is subject to change.
How Do You Light A Lantern?
If you’ve never lit one before or haven’t got anyone with you who has, it can be a tad tricky. I suggest you watch someone nearby launch theirs first. You are going to need a lighter! But don’t worry, there will be plenty of people around willing to let you borrow theirs.
The first step is to attach the fabric disc, which is covered in wax and fuel (and smells awful), to the metal wires going across the lantern’s bottom. Turn the lantern upside down, place the disc in the middle, and use the metal wires to tie it onto the lantern. Simply wrap the wires around the other wires tightly.
Next, you are going to need some help! It takes at least 2 people to help light a lantern. One or more people should help hold the paper part of the lantern by pinching it at the top to hold it. You’ll have to hold it high enough for the other person to light the disc.
Then, the designated fire starter is going to light the disc. Try to light it evenly.
Once it is lit, the paper lantern will begin to fill with hot air. When it does this, I recommend you place the lantern down, which now looks almost like a balloon, with its bottom touching the ground. Place your hand near the top of the lantern as when it is ready, it still start to lift itself off the ground!
When it begins to lift, it’s nearly time to release your lantern.
Carefully lift it up so that everyone is holding the lantern by the bottom bamboo ring. Say a wish or hope for the future and raise your arms up in unison and release your lantern into the night sky!
Is Loy Krathong Safe For Children?
It’s grown much safer over the years and in general people are very polite and in a great mood. How can you not be when there’s so much beauty around you!
To make Loy Krathong safer, officials have banned the sale of alcohol near the moat and the part of the river that flows through the old city. They have also began enforcing a ban of hand held fireworks being released or sold in the same areas.
If you or your children are nervous in large crowds, then this celebration is definitely not for you. However, if you would still like to enjoy the festivities, I’d recommend booking a private Loy Krathong dinner at one of the hotels or riverside restaurants where there will be much more crowd control and you will all be in the same spot.
For those of you who have dogs, Loy Krathong is a painful time of year for them. Most dogs are petrified of the loud bangs and noises that occur during the night when people are setting off fireworks in celebration. Be sure to let them inside somewhere safe. If you can’t find your dog(s), they will typically return the next day when everything has calmed down.
For small children, keep them closer than usual. There will be fire around with those beautiful lanterns being lit and there may be the rouge firework that someone thinks is a great idea to set off. Years ago people used to shoot fireworks across the river at the people on the other side, but thankfully that doesn’t seem to happen anymore!
The beauty of the experience of Yee Peng and Loy Krathong is sure to live on in your entire family’s hearts and minds for a very long time. Many people we’ve known over the years return specifically for this time of year to enjoy the festivities all over again.
Where Are The Best Places to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai?
Yee Peng and Loy Krathong have always been free events. In recent years many companies and businesses have come in and changed the experience into one of profit, but it doesn’t need to be this way!
Do not pay exorbitant amounts of money for something that could be experienced for free, or nearly free. If you do choose to pay for anything, let it be a locally handcrafted krathong, or a lantern (khom loy). A simple krathong should cost 20 baht each while a lantern usually starts at 50 baht for a small size.
As for the free Loy Krathong activities in Chiang Mai, please refer back to the Loy Krathong schedule of events. Each and every one of those is free.
The best places to celebrate Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai on November 14th, 15th and 16th, 2024 would be anywhere by the river that is close to town. Narawat Bridge, Iron Bridge, and literally anywhere along the Ping River close to those bridges is the place to be. Along these areas you are guaranteed to be a part of a budget friendly magical experience.
What are the Loy Krathing or Yee Peng events in Chiang Mai?
There will be krathong making activities, riverside dinner opportunities, a mass lantern release, and other private dinners.
Essentially every hotel and restaurant along the Ping River will be hosting private events. All of the hotel events will require reservation and most likely a deposit.
Here are many great events to check out during Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai or nearby:
1. The Lantern Festival In Lamphun
What: The most incredibly decorated temple covered in lanterns. It’s not to be missed!
When: You can actually go and enjoy every day and night until November 30th
Where: Wat Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan in Lamphun about a 40 minute drive from Chiang Mai to the south along highway 11
Cost: FREE
MORE EVENTS COMING SOON…
Lantern Releases in Chiang Mai
All the paid events will claim to be sold out and I can’t condone marketing any of those events as they are unfairly priced for something that is free.
Don’t Miss the 100% FREE Mass Lantern Release – Doi Saket
What: You’ll likely have to get yourself there or hitch a ride with a local organizer in a songtaew, but THIS is the best mass lantern release. There will be 10,000 candle lanterns, entertainment (especially on the 15th) and other beautiful displays.
When: Nov 14th-16th – Lantern releases 15th and 16th in the evening. Best to get there around 6 pm
Where: The Lake in Doi Saket
Cost: FREE
Will There Be Fireworks For Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai?
Yes!!! You can even buy your own fireworks locally and set them off yourself, albeit carefully. Watch out for others lighting them off too.
The official show will take place along the river at Sri Koong Temple starting around 8:30pm
Where Can You Get Fireworks in Chiang Mai For Loy Krathong?
It’s becoming more and more difficult to purchase fireworks in Chiang Mai. This is because the government is trying (and rightly so) to regulate them.
You may still be able to buy fireworks from local Thai shops, however expect the supply to be more limited year on year.
Always be careful when lighting fireworks! We’ve had a few go amiss on us over the years, however it was usually due to human error!
Please read our do’s and don’ts section for Loy Krathong about where and when you can set off your own fireworks.
What Are The Do’s And Don’ts For Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai?
One of the first things to consider, is what to wear? It is considerate if you dress temple ready – as if you are dressing to enter a temple. As both festivals are Buddhist celebrations, it would be best to not wear revealing clothing.
You must also be careful when you choose to release lanterns into the sky. The local government has mandated new rules and regulations for the release of lanterns in Chiang Mai.
According to CityLife Chiang Mai, ‘No person is allowed to light or fly lanterns, balloons or any similar objects into the sky unless a permit is obtained from local district chiefs.’
In addition to that, lanterns or khom lois may only be released between the hours of 7 pm and 1 am on November 14th, November 15th, or November 16th. Violators are subject to a fine up to 60,000 baht or up to 3 years imprisonment.
Please check if your event or area is designated a lantern flying zone!
Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending how you look at it) drinking or purchasing alcohol within the non-alcohol zones is illegal. Avoid drinking in public around the moat and Ping River just in case police are out enforcing the rule.
If you’d like to join in the fireworks fun, please only do this in a safe area. The setting off of fireworks is prohibited in the old city. Although within your moo baan or village you may be able to set them off.
Just check and see if your tambon or moo baan have particular rules about this. However, if you live in a Thai village, it’s pretty much no holds bar! Just be sure to stop firing them off past 11 pm for the sake of your neighbours.
How To Get To Loy Krathong And Yee Peng Events in Chiang Mai?
With the city being so busy, what are the best ways to get around Chiang Mai during Loy Krathong? Well, if you are going to a private event, most will arrange transportation for you. However, if you are on your own, any mode of transport may seem challenging.
To get around during Loy Krathong, especially on the nights of November 14th to 16th we suggest you get anywhere early. The best modes of transportation would be to take a Grab, a taxi, or a songtaew. If you are reveling alone or as a couple, then we suggest a tuk tuk or a motorbike.
If you are lucky enough to have booked a hotel downtown near the river, then you are probably within walking distance. You’ll get to enjoy the festivities a bit longer than the rest of us as you walk around the beautiful old city and river areas.
Whatever you do, do not attempt to take your car downtown unless you absolutely have to, have parking arranged, or know your route home. There will be people in the streets everywhere near the river and driving can be a headache.
