Chiang Mai, Thailand
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong
Lanterns rising into the night sky, candlelit floats on the river, and Chiang Mai at its most beautiful.
The straight answer
Yi Peng falls on the full moon of the twelfth Thai lunar month, usually in November, and Chiang Mai celebrates it together with Loy Krathong over about three days of lanterns, parades, and river offerings.
Yi Peng is the northern Thai lantern festival, celebrated most famously in Chiang Mai. It coincides with Loy Krathong, the nationwide festival of floating offerings, on the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. That usually lands in November, occasionally in late October, so check the date for your year before booking.
In Chiang Mai, the two festivals merge into several days of celebrations: paper lanterns (khom loi) released into the sky, candlelit lanterns hung across the old city, parades of illuminated floats, and krathongs, small floats made of banana leaves and flowers, set onto the Ping River with a candle and incense.
The famous images of thousands of lanterns rising at once usually come from organized, ticketed events outside the city rather than from the city streets. Knowing that difference is the key to planning a Yi Peng trip without disappointment.
The event, explained
Releasing a khom loi, a paper hot-air lantern, is a way of letting go of bad luck and making a wish for the year ahead. In the city, people release lanterns individually or in small groups, though authorities regulate releases and limit them to certain times and places for safety and air traffic.
The mass lantern releases seen in photos are held at organized events outside the city, often with a Buddhist ceremony and meditation before the release. These events are ticketed, sometimes expensive, and sell out months ahead. Choose a reputable organizer, and check what is included.
Loy Krathong centers on the water: people float krathongs on the Ping River, lakes, and canals, especially near the Nawarat Bridge and along the river. The Tha Phae Gate area and the old city host parades, stalls, and lantern decorations.
Temples such as Wat Phan Tao are decorated with lanterns and candles, and many hold evening ceremonies that are open to respectful visitors.
How to play it right
- 01Book Chiang Mai lodging three to six months ahead. The festival is one of the busiest periods of the year in the city, and rates rise sharply.
- 02If you want a mass lantern release, buy tickets for an organized event well in advance and confirm the date, the organizer, and the transport arrangements. Be wary of scams and unofficial sellers.
- 03Chiang Mai International Airport adjusts flight schedules during peak lantern release times to keep lanterns away from aircraft. If you fly in or out during the festival, expect possible changes and check with your airline.
- 04Weather is usually excellent: the rainy season has ended, with highs near 86F (30C) and cooler evenings. It is one of the best months to visit northern Thailand.
- 05Traffic in the old city is heavy and many roads are closed during the parades. Walk or use songthaews (shared red trucks) and allow extra time.
- 06Respect the rules: lantern releases are restricted in some areas and at certain times, and releasing lanterns near the airport is prohibited. Fireworks and firecrackers are common; keep your distance.
With kids in tow
- Floating a krathong on the river is a lovely, simple activity for families, and krathongs are sold cheaply everywhere during the festival.
- The crowds at the parades and the riverfront can be dense, and firecrackers are frequent. Keep small children close and consider watching from a riverside restaurant.
- Organized lantern events often involve long waits and late nights. With young children, the city celebrations may be a better fit.
Book your stay for Yi Peng and Loy Krathong.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Yi Peng and Loy KrathongOpens a hotel search for Yi Peng and Loy Krathong in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Yi Peng and Loy KrathongWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Yi Peng and Loy KrathongTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Yi Peng and Loy Krathong for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong, quick answers
When is Yi Peng in Chiang Mai?
On the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November and occasionally in late October. Chiang Mai celebrates over about three days together with Loy Krathong.
What is the difference between Yi Peng and Loy Krathong?
Loy Krathong is a nationwide festival of floating offerings on water. Yi Peng is the northern Thai lantern festival. In Chiang Mai they are celebrated together.
Where can I see the mass lantern release?
At organized, ticketed events outside Chiang Mai. They sell out months ahead. In the city itself, lantern releases are smaller and regulated.
Are flights affected during Yi Peng?
Yes. Chiang Mai airport adjusts flight schedules during peak lantern release times. Check with your airline if you are flying during the festival.
What is the weather like in Chiang Mai in November?
Excellent. The rainy season has ended, with highs near 86F (30C), low humidity by Thai standards, and cooler evenings. It is one of the best months to visit.
Make a trip of it: Thailand
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Best: Nov to Feb
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Also in November
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November 1 and 2 every year, with parades, altars, and events building through the second half of October
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