Immerse yourself in the colorful Yi Peng Chiang Mai sky lantern festival

When night falls, the sky of Chiang Mai will be filled with thousands of small, beautiful sky lanterns, handcrafted from coconut leaf paper and bamboo. Each lantern carries a story, a wish and a soul. When released high into the sky, they are like falling stars, creating a beautiful picture in the night sky, making everyone who witnesses them amazed. Let's learn about this unique Yi Peng sky lantern festival in Chiang Mai with Vietravel !

1. Origin and meaning of the Yi Peng sky lantern festival

1.1. Origin of the festival

Yi Peng Festival is one of the three biggest festivals in Thailand. (Photo source: Collected)

The Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival, also known as Yee Peng, is one of the most beautiful and sacred traditional festivals of the Lanna people in Northern Thailand. The origin of this festival is closely linked to the people's deep belief in Buddhism.

According to legend, on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, the Lanna people believe that paying homage to the Buddha's relics will bring good luck and peace. However, the Buddha's relics are believed to be kept in Heaven, the highest and most sacred place. Therefore, to show their respect and send their wishes to heaven, people created the custom of releasing lanterns. The shimmering light of the lanterns symbolizes the connection between humans and the spiritual world , and is also a prayer for a peaceful and happy new year.

The Yi Peng Festival is not only a religious event but also an occasion for the Lanna community to gather, have fun and express gratitude for life. During the festival days, the streets of Chiang Mai are decorated with lanterns, fresh flowers and lights. People join together to participate in cultural and artistic activities such as dancing, singing, performing traditional musical instruments and releasing sky lanterns.

1.2. Meaning of the festival

Yi Peng Festival to pray for good luck and fortune in life. (Photo source: Collected)

Yi Peng Festival is not only a lantern festival but also carries deep spiritual meanings. According to the Lanna people, when the lanterns are released high up, they will carry people's wishes and desires and fly up to the sky. The shimmering light of the lanterns symbolizes purity, clarity and is a bridge between people and the spiritual world.

It is believed that when releasing lanterns, bad luck and troubles in life will be sent to the lantern and fly up to the sky, disappearing into the vast space. Releasing lanterns is also considered a purification ritual, helping people wash away bad things and welcome good things to come.

2. Time to hold Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival

The Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival is usually held on November 15 and 16. (Photo source: Collected)

The Yi Peng Chiang Mai Lantern Festival is one of the most anticipated cultural events in Thailand. In 2025, the festival will take place on November 15 and 16. However, as the Yi Peng festival is held according to the Lanna lunar calendar, the exact dates may vary slightly. Usually, the festival falls around mid-November.

3. Some locations to hold the Yi Peng sky lantern festival

There are many places in Chiang Mai where you can participate in the Yi Peng festival. (Photo source: Collected)

Chiang Mai during the Yi Peng festival becomes a colorful city with thousands of bright lanterns. Everywhere, from the ancient streets to the sacred temples, is filled with the festive atmosphere.
3.1. Nawarat Bridge

Nawarat Bridge over the Ping River is one of the ideal places to enjoy panoramic views of the city and release lanterns. Here, visitors can enjoy the peaceful feeling of releasing lanterns gently floating on the river.
3.2. Tha Phae Gate

Tha Phae Gate, the symbol of Chiang Mai city, is also a must-see destination during the festival. During these days, the city gate is splendidly decorated with thousands of lanterns, creating an extremely impressive scene. Wat Suan Dok and Wat Lok Moli are two famous temples with large and quiet gardens. Releasing lanterns at these places will give you a feeling of relaxation and closeness to nature.
3.3. Yee Peng Lana Dhutanka

For photography enthusiasts, Yee Peng Lana Dhutanka behind Maejo University is a must-visit. With its large, airy and lavishly decorated space, it regularly hosts large-scale lantern-releasing events, attracting thousands of visitors. Note: Due to the popularity of this venue, tickets often sell out very quickly, so you should book in advance to ensure a spot.
3.4. Yee Bang Doi Saket

If you are looking for a peaceful and natural space to enjoy the Yi Peng festival, Yee Peng Doi Saket will be the perfect choice. About 30km from the center of Chiang Mai city, this place can accommodate up to 2,400 people. With a wide open space, you will have the opportunity to admire thousands of colorful lanterns against the clear night sky.

In addition, you can also participate in traditional cultural activities of local people and enjoy special dishes. Ticket prices range from 90 to 150 USD/person including entrance tickets, lanterns and other services. However, compared to other places, ticket prices here are somewhat higher.
3.5. Cowboy Army Riding Club

About 10km from the city center, this place can accommodate up to 3500 - 4000 people. With a large space and diverse entertainment activities, Cowboy Army Riding Club promises to bring you unforgettable memories. Ticket prices range from 90 - 120 USD including entrance tickets, lanterns and other services. Compared to Yee Bang Doi Saket, ticket prices here are more flexible.

4. Activities in the Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival

Chiang Mai city seems to be wearing a new, magical, shimmering coat. (Photo source: Collected)

In the bustling atmosphere of the Yi Peng sky lantern festival, Chiang Mai city is dressed in a new, shimmering, magical coat. Traditional Lanna houses are meticulously decorated with thousands of lanterns of all colors and sizes, along with small, flickering candles, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. The soft light of the lanterns illuminates the streets, illuminating hidden corners and bringing a sense of peace and relaxation.

However, to ensure everyone's safety and protect the environment, releasing sky lanterns directly in the city center has been banned. This makes many tourists feel regretful. But don't worry, you can still fully experience this beautiful tradition of releasing sky lanterns at events held on the outskirts of the city.

Even if you don’t have the chance to release sky lanterns into the night sky, you can still fully immerse yourself in the vibrant Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festival atmosphere in downtown Chiang Mai. Imagine yourself walking down the ancient streets where thousands of colorful lanterns are hanging. The soft light of the lanterns reflects on the waters of the Ping River, creating an extremely romantic scene.

In the bustling atmosphere of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals, you will have the opportunity to experience countless interesting and meaningful activities. Imagine yourself gently releasing small flower lanterns made entirely from banana leaves, fresh flowers and natural materials into the river. Each flower lantern carries your small prayers and wishes floating on the water.
5. Things to note when participating in the Pi Yeng sky lantern festival

Some notes when participating in the Yi Peng festival in Chiang Mai. (Photo source: Collected)

To have a meaningful trip to Thailand to participate in the Yi Peng sky lantern festival, you should note the following:

Although all the places to see the lanterns in Chiang Mai are very attractive, the area behind Mae Jo University is still considered a "gem" that visitors should not miss. With a large, airy space and splendid decoration, this place will bring you unforgettable experiences. To get the best position to see the lanterns, you should come earlier than the festival start time.
Since the number of tourists flocking to Chiang Mai during the festival days is very large, it is essential to book flights and hotel rooms in advance. You should book your tickets as early as possible to ensure you get a good price and satisfactory accommodation.
When participating in the lantern festival, you should choose polite and discreet clothing to show respect for the local culture. Besides, bringing a light jacket is also necessary, in case the weather changes.
To avoid being scammed, you should buy tickets to the festival directly from the organizers or official agents. Do not buy tickets from street vendors outside to ensure the safety of yourself and your property.

Looking up at the sky of Chiang Mai in the Yi Peng night, when the sky lanterns are floating, carrying the dreams and prayers of the people, I feel a harmony between heaven, earth and people. This is an experience that you will never forget, a moment that you will always want to experience again. Let the light of Yi Peng illuminate your path, let your prayers fly with the sky lanterns. Check out the Thailand Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai tour and book today to explore with Vietravel!

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/le-hoi-den-troi-yi-peng-v15630.aspx