The Magic of Thailand's Lantern festival: Experiencing Chiang Mai’s yi peng festival & Loy Krathong

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Yi Peng vs. Loy Krathong – What’s the Difference?

Many people have seen photos and videos of Thailand’s famous lantern festival — but reading through information can be confusing, especially post-pandemic and changes to city laws on lantern releases. Cultural celebrations can also be confusing as you’ll hear the terms “Yi Peng” and “Loy Krathong” thrown around. In this travel guide, I’ll touch on both of these incredible celebrations and provide you with my personal experience travelling through Chiang Mai.

Every November, Chiang Mai transforms into a glowing dreamscape during two of Thailand’s most beloved festivals: Yi Peng (pronounced “yee-peng”) and Loy Krathong. Though they happen at the same time and share similar themes of light and renewal, they’re actually two distinct celebrations — each with its own traditions and meaning.

Yi Peng (ยี่เป็ง)

Yi Peng is unique to northern Thailand and has roots in Lanna culture (northern Thailand; formerly Lanna Kingdom). It’s best known for the release of paper sky lanterns, symbolizing letting go of misfortune and inviting good luck for the year ahead. When you think of the lantern festival in Thailand — this is image you’re recalling. The sight of thousands of glowing lanterns floating into the night sky over Chiang Mai has become one of the most iconic images of Thailand.

Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง)

Celebrated throughout all of Thailand, Loy Krathong is centered around releasing small decorated floats (called krathongs) made from banana leaves, flowers, and candles into rivers, lakes, or ponds. It’s an offering to the water goddess, thanking her for abundance and seeking forgiveness for pollution or waste.

In short:
✨ Yi Peng floats lanterns to the sky.
🌊 Loy Krathong floats offerings on the water.

Many visitors experience both together in Chiang Mai — one of the only cities where you can enjoy both celebrations in harmony during the same magical weekend.

About the CAD Yi Peng Lantern Festival in chiang mai

The Chiang Mai CAD Yi Peng Lantern Festival is the largest organized lantern release event in northern Thailand — and one of the only officially permitted, paid festivals where you can safely take part in a sky lantern release.

Since lantern releases inside Chiang Mai city are now prohibited due to fire risk, attending a licensed event like CAD ensures safety, sustainability, and compliance with local regulations. There are several other paid events such as Yipeng Lanna Festival in Chiang Mai and a lantern festival hosted by Stamps Backpackers Hostel (check their social media).

CAD’s (Chiang Mai Arts & Design) Lantern Festival provides biodegradable lanterns, a beautiful rural venue, and an authentic cultural experience far beyond just the lantern release itself. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I committed to going, but it’s a worthwhile, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Transportation

Guests are picked up from Payap University, where organized shuttles transport everyone to the festival grounds. Shuttles are based on the type of ticket you have: Standard, VIP, Premium, Elite. It’s about 45 minutes to the venue from the university.

Buses are available on the way back – but this is where the chaos ensues. There are three drop-offs in 2025: Payap University, MAYA mall and Chiang Mai Night Baazar. However, finding which buses are transporting where it chaotic. It’s best to hop on any bus – preferably close to the front and get private transportation from the drop-off points back to your accommodations.

CAD Yi Peng lantern festival cultural celebrations in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Krathong floats for Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Inside the Lantern festival:

The event is impressively organized for such a large-scale gathering — you can truly relax and immerse yourself in Thai tradition without worrying about logistics.
There are plenty of booths to browse handmade crafts and clothing made by local artisans. I recommend doing at least one lap before buying anything because there’s so much to see! Outside of the craft village is an area to enjoy free samples of traditional snacks even before the buffet opens. There are several spots to get a Thai massage scattered throughout the venue as well.

You’re able to exchange money on-site or use the ATMs available. At the official CAD souvenir carts, they had CAD specific items such as magnets and also rain coats/jackets available for purchase. There’s a small river that runs through the festival. When you walk into the entrance, turn right and you should find it. Here you can receive a free krathong and release it into the pond to celebrate Loy Krathong.

There were several areas you can participate in crafts, such as painting your own fan or folding your own lantern.

Throughout the afternoon there are plenty of opportunities to watch cultural performances and demonstrations from Thailand’s ethnic hill tribes and communities. These events ramp up as the afternoon goes on!

There are assigned seats for every person and two lanterns are provided to each seat for release. At the time of the release, the staff comes around and lights the wicker to get the event started.

My favorite Parts of the Yi Peng lantern festival in thailand

When I think back to the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, what stands out isn’t just the lanterns — it’s the little discoveries woven throughout the day. I felt thankful everything fell into place: a grab driver accepted my ride quickly, and I was one of the first to enter the festival, the rain held off for the most part, I was able to get an early dinner & avoid overcrowding.

🌟 I stumbled upon a tiny hand-crafted lantern ornament, perfect for my Christmas ornament collection — simple, delicate, and glowing with meaning.

☕ Nearby was a “pay-as-you-wish” coffee stand, run by friendly baristas in a portable vintage-styled café. Their laughter and passion for coffee felt like a warm welcome to northern Thai hospitality.

📸 One of my favorite moments was meeting a local photography student who had restored a 200-year-old camera lens. For 250 baht, he snapped a black-and-white portrait and developed it on the spot — a keepsake I’ll treasure forever.

The dinner buffet was delicious — fragrant noodles, delicious stirfry, and fresh fruit — but here’s my tip: don’t wait too long to eat. By the time the sun dipped low, the lines stretched forever.

Then, as the evening deepened, the moment everyone waited for arrived — the lantern release.

Thousands of us watch the cultural performances together. This year, they honored Queen Mother – who past away just a few weeks ago. It was a very humbling experience. After, we lighted our lanterns, whispering wishes, and watched them lift into the velvet sky. Some rose gracefully; others let go of theirs a little too soon and caused them to tumble down. Staff were ready with fire extinguishers, but most floated freely, drifting upward until the night shimmered with golden light.

I met people from everywhere – the United States, Australia, Germany, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Brazil, Japan – all coming together for this special experience. I even saw an acquaintance I had met a few years ago on a Bali trip! It’s another event that reminds me of how small the world is and how we are much more alike than we realize.

It was breathtaking — a reminder of renewal, gratitude, and connection across cultures.

CAD Yi Peng lantern festival, lantern release in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai, thailand

I recommend staying within the walls of the old city or just beyond it. This will put you within walking distance to many attractions. Other good locations to stay would be near Maya Mall or near the Night Baazar.

Budget option: The Guest Hotel & Hostel

Located in the Old City near Wat Phra Singh, this hybrid guest-hotel/hostel offers both dorms and private rooms. Free WiFi, air-conditioning, free parking, fitness centre, and a good location (just steps from major temples). Great pick if you want to stay centrally and want to spend the most on experiences versus accommodations.

Mid-range: Villa Sirilanna Hotel
Set in the heart of the Old City, this boutique hotel features large rooms styled in traditional teak Thai furnishings (some with spa baths), a tranquil pool area and friendly service.
This is ideal if you want a comfortable base after festival nights, but still want value. It’s nice to have your own shower and space after a long day!

Luxury: The Four Seasons Resort
If you’re looking for ultra-comfort and full service, consider places like the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai — set amongst rice paddies, with resort-level amenities.
For your special travel moments (like staying for the lantern festival), a luxury option can make the experience extra memorable.

See all places in Chiang Mai here!

Other things to do in Chiang Mai, thailand

Beyond the lanterns, Chiang Mai is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and creativity. Wander through the Old City’s ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, or take a cooking class to learn the secrets of authentic northern Thai cuisine. Spend an afternoon café-hopping through charming spots with mountain views and creative decor, explore the Sunday Walking Street Market for handmade souvenirs, or take a day trip to Doi Suthep for panoramic views over the city. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, coffee, or calm — Chiang Mai offers the perfect mix of adventure and serenity in Thailand.

Hi, I’m Amber —

A Michigan native now living in Washington with a deep love for travel and the outdoors. What started with church mission trips and traveling across the U.S. as a nurse has grown into a passion for exploring the world through hiking, food, culture, and the beauty of God’s creation. Sometimes I’m joined by my goldendoodle, Millie, but I’m always traveling with my camera. My goal is to help you feel inspired and confident that travel is possible — no matter where you’re starting from.