The **Yi Peng Lantern Festival** is one of Thailand’s most magical and visually stunning celebrations. Held in **Chiang Mai**, this ancient **Lanna tradition** is famous for the breathtaking sight of **thousands of glowing sky lanterns (khom loi) floating into the night sky**, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Taking place alongside **Loy Krathong**, where candle-lit floats are released into the water, **Yi Peng symbolizes the release of negativity, renewal of spirit, and the welcoming of good fortune**. The festival is deeply rooted in **Buddhist beliefs**, and many participants see the act of releasing a lantern as a **spiritual offering to Buddha and an act of merit-making**.
History of the Yi Peng Festival
The **Yi Peng Festival** has its origins in the **ancient Lanna Kingdom**, which ruled northern Thailand centuries ago. It was traditionally a time to **pay homage to Buddha and the heavens**, marking the end of the rainy season and the beginning of a new lunar cycle.
**What does “Yi Peng” mean?**
- “Yi” (ยี่) means “second,” and “Peng” (เป็ง) means “month,” referring to the second month of the **Lanna lunar calendar**.
- The festival falls on the **full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar**, usually in **November**.
Yi Peng is closely linked to **Buddhism** and is seen as a way to **gain merit, send wishes to the heavens, and let go of past misfortunes**. It is also believed that if your lantern soars high and disappears into the sky, your wishes will be granted!
Traditional Rituals & Customs
Yi Peng is a festival of **light, reflection, and celebration**, filled with both spiritual and cultural traditions.
🎆 The Sky Lantern Release
- Participants gather in **open spaces, temples, and festival grounds** to **release sky lanterns (khom loi)**.
- Before lighting the lantern, people often write **prayers, wishes, or messages** on it.
- The lantern is then carefully held while the **hot air fills it**, and once it’s ready, it is **gently released into the sky**.
- The result is a **spectacular display of thousands of glowing lanterns floating upwards**, creating a sea of lights.
🌊 Floating Krathongs on Water (Loy Krathong)
- Yi Peng coincides with **Loy Krathong**, where people **release floating candles (krathongs)** on rivers and lakes.
- Krathongs are made of **banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense** and symbolize **letting go of misfortune**.
- The combination of **floating lights on water and lanterns in the sky** makes this one of the most visually stunning festivals in Thailand.
🎭 Cultural Performances & Celebrations
- Traditional **Lanna dance performances and parades** take place throughout Chiang Mai.
- Temples are **decorated with hanging lanterns**, creating a warm and spiritual atmosphere.
- Monks lead **chanting ceremonies**, and locals offer prayers and merit-making activities.
Where to Experience Yi Peng in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is **the best place in Thailand** to witness **Yi Peng**, with several key locations to enjoy the festival.
📍 Mae Jo University (Mass Lantern Release Event)
- The most famous **organized mass lantern release** in Chiang Mai.
- Thousands of lanterns are released **simultaneously**, creating a synchronized glowing spectacle.
- Tickets are required, and **advanced booking is essential**.
📍 Tha Phae Gate & Chiang Mai Old City
- The **central festival area**, featuring parades, performances, and small lantern releases.
- Ideal for tourists who want to experience the **atmosphere of Yi Peng without a ticketed event**.
📍 Ping River & Nawarat Bridge
- A perfect location to **float krathongs on the river** and watch lanterns rise into the sky.
- Stunning reflections of the lanterns can be seen **on the water**.
📍 Temples (Wat Phan Tao & Wat Chedi Luang)
- Many temples host **monk-led lantern release ceremonies**.
- A more **spiritual and peaceful way** to experience Yi Peng.
Watch the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Action!
🛑 Note: The video is in Russian, but the visuals perfectly capture the magic of the festival!
🎥 What You’ll See in the Video:
- People **preparing and releasing sky lanterns**.
- Thousands of **glowing lanterns floating into the night sky**.
- The serene and **spiritual ambiance** of the festival.
How to Join the Festival?
🎟️ Ticket Information
- Public lantern releases are **free**, but designated ticketed events **offer a more organized experience**.
- Prices for organized lantern releases range from **3,000-5,000 THB (~$90-$150 USD)**.
🚗 How to Get There?
- By Taxi or Grab: The easiest way to reach festival locations.
- By Songthaew (Red Truck): Shared taxis available from Chiang Mai city center.
- By Motorbike: Renting a bike offers flexibility and avoids traffic.
FAQ: Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai
📌 Can tourists participate in the lantern release?
Yes! Tourists can **join the public celebrations or purchase tickets for designated events**.
📌 What should I wear to the festival?
- Dress **modestly**, especially when visiting temples.
- Wear **comfortable shoes**, as you’ll be walking around the festival areas.
- Avoid loose clothing near lanterns, as they involve **open flames**.
📌 Are lanterns safe for the environment?
- Due to fire risks, **some areas restrict lantern releases**.
- Organized events use **biodegradable lanterns** and have cleanup efforts to minimize waste.
Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Yi Peng in Chiang Mai
The **Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai** is an **unforgettable** experience that blends **spirituality, tradition, and breathtaking beauty**. Whether you’re **releasing a lantern, floating a krathong, or simply watching in awe**, this festival is **a must-see event**.
If you plan to visit **Thailand in November**, don’t miss the chance to witness **Yi Peng in Chiang Mai**—one of the most magical festivals in the world.
