The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is one of the country’s most beautiful and popular events. Thousands of paper lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. If you are planning to attend, getting the correct information is essential for a smooth and memorable experience.
This guide provides everything you need to know about attending Yi Peng in 2025. We will cover the festival’s dates, what to expect, and practical tips for making your trip a success.
What is the Yi Peng Festival?
Yi Peng, also known as the Thai Lantern Festival, is a cultural event celebrated in Northern Thailand. It is closely linked to the Lanna kingdom’s ancient traditions and is held on the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar. This timing means it often coincides with another popular Thai festival, Loy Krathong.
The main event of Yi Peng is the simultaneous release of thousands of paper lanterns, called khom loi, into the night sky. This act symbolizes letting go of misfortunes and making wishes for the future. The sight of the sky filled with glowing lanterns is truly unforgettable.
Yi Peng 2025 Festival Dates
The official date for Yi Peng is based on the Thai lunar calendar, so it changes every year.
The Yi Peng festival in 2025 is expected to take place on November 5th and 6th, 2025.
These dates are based on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. It’s always a good idea to confirm closer to the time, as official announcements are sometimes made later in the year.
Where to Experience Yi Peng in Chiang Mai
Yi Peng is celebrated throughout Northern Thailand, but the largest and most famous events are held in and around Chiang Mai. There are both free public events and paid, private events.
Paid Events
For a more organized and less crowded experience, many visitors choose to attend a paid event. These are held at various venues outside of the city center and offer a structured program.
Benefits of paid events include:
- Guaranteed Space: Tickets ensure you have a spot and a clear view of the lantern release.
- Included Lanterns: Your ticket usually includes two lanterns per person.
- Organized Experience: These events often feature cultural performances, traditional food, and a coordinated mass lantern release, which is ideal for photography.
- Transportation: Many ticket packages include transportation from Chiang Mai city to the venue.
Popular paid venues include the CAD Culture Centre Lanna Ethnicity and the Northern Study Center in the Mae Rim district. Tickets for these events can sell out months in advance, so it is important to book early.
Free Events
There are also opportunities to see the lanterns for free in Chiang Mai city. During the festival nights, locals and tourists release lanterns from various public spaces.
Popular spots for free viewing include:
- Nawarat Bridge: This is one of the most crowded spots, but it offers a great view of lanterns rising over the Ping River.
- Tha Phae Gate: The area around this historic gate is another popular gathering point.
- Three Kings Monument: Many cultural activities and lantern releases happen in this public square.
While free events offer a more spontaneous experience, be prepared for large crowds and traffic congestion.
What to Expect at Yi Peng
Attending Yi Peng is a deeply moving experience. The festival begins in the early evening with cultural performances, traditional Lanna music, and religious ceremonies. Monks often lead chants before the mass lantern release, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
As darkness falls, the main event begins. Following a signal, thousands of people light their lanterns and release them into the sky at the same time. The sight of the sky slowly filling with a galaxy of warm, glowing lights is the moment everyone waits for.
Practical Tips for Attending Yi Peng 2025
To make the most of your trip, it’s helpful to plan ahead. Here are some simple tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable festival experience.
Book Accommodation and Flights Early
Chiang Mai becomes very busy during the Yi Peng festival. Hotels, guesthouses, and flights fill up quickly. We recommend booking your accommodation and travel at least six to eight months in advance to secure a place to stay and avoid high prices.
Purchase Event Tickets in Advance
If you plan to attend a paid event, buy your tickets from a reputable source as soon as they become available. These events are very popular and often sell out by the middle of the year.
Dress Respectfully
Yi Peng is a religious and cultural festival. It is important to dress modestly, especially if you are attending an event held at a temple or a formal venue. We recommend covering your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for the local culture.
Be Safe with Lanterns
When releasing your lantern, be careful. The lanterns are made of rice paper with a wax fuel cell. Make sure your lantern is fully inflated with hot air before you let it go, so it rises properly and doesn’t become a fire hazard. Follow all instructions provided by event organizers.
Experience the Magic of Yi Peng
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival offers a unique opportunity to participate in a beautiful and meaningful cultural tradition. The sight of thousands of lanterns drifting into the night sky is an experience that stays with you long after you leave Thailand.
By planning ahead, you can ensure your trip to Yi Peng 2025 is as seamless as it is magical. Book your flights and accommodation, secure your event tickets, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.