Yi Peng lanterns lights of wisdom
Yi Peng is as old as Lanna heritage, it represents a close bond between Thai culture and water. This festival takes place on the full moon night of November when the water level is high and the climate is cooler.
Every year on the full moon of the twelfth month in the Thai Lunar Calendar, people go to the Chiang Mai City to take part in the Yi Peng sky lantern release.
The pictures of ten thousands of lanterns like stars brightly and shining soaring in the sky above Chiang Mai area. That is a sign of “Yi Peng” or “Loy Krathong” Festival in Lanna style which is a beautiful tradition as those who need to get a breathtaking and charming experience.
Full moon, brightly illuminated night and a sense of communal well being are the key to the appeal of the annual Loy Krathong celebration. In the Northern Thai province of Chiang Mai, which was once part of the ancient lanna Thai kingdom, the ritual of launching hot air lanterns (khom loy or khom yi peng) is a unique aspect of the region. Traditional belief has it that when the lantern is set adrift and floats away in the sky, so do all the troubles of the villagers. For the residents of Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng Festival is an exciting period where the whole city comes alive swathed in beautifully decorated lanterns made from paper.
Yi Peng takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar; hence, the exact date of the festival changes every year. In the Western calendar this usually falls in the month of November.
Where to celebrate Sky Lantern Festival 2023
Chiang Mai offers a multitude of locations to celebrate the Yee Peng lantern festival, such as the Three Kings Monument, the Ping River, and the Thapae Gate. You’ll witness thousands of lanterns (khom loy) floating up into the sky, candles illuminating the lanes, and locals offering krathong (floating flower arrangements) in the river. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, you can escape the crowds by strolling down the candlelit lanes or enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar like Oasis. For the best Yee Peng experience, consider joining Chiang Mai Arts & Design’s (CAD) activities, which offer various tiers of tickets featuring performances and food from all over Thailand. Donating or making khom loy and krathong is an important tradition in Buddhist culture, representing moving away from darkness and into the light. Immerse yourself in the local culture with CAD’s all-inclusive sky lantern festival ticket, which includes food and drinks.