Thailand’s Lantern Festival is one of the most breathtaking cultural experiences you can witness. Each year, thousands of glowing lanterns float into the night sky, creating a mesmerizing display of light and serenity. While many refer to this event simply as the "Lantern Festival," it actually consists of two closely linked celebrations:
- Yi Peng Festival – Known for its breathtaking sky lantern releases, mainly in Chiang Mai.
- Loy Krathong Festival – A nationwide celebration where people float decorated baskets (krathongs) on rivers and lakes.
These two festivals happen on the same day in most years, making November one of the most magical times to visit Thailand.
Yi Peng: Thousands of lanterns rising into the night's sky Loy Krathong: A girl is releasing a lotus-shaped basket on the river.When is Thailand's Lantern Festival in 2025?
In 2025, the festivals will take place on:
- Loy Krathong: November 6, 2025 (nationwide)
- Yi Peng: November 5-6, 2025 (mainly in Chiang Mai)
Chiang Mai is the best place to experience both festivals together, as Yi Peng is primarily celebrated in northern Thailand, while Loy Krathong is observed across the country.
Yi Peng vs Loy Krathong
Curious about the differences between the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong Festivals? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Feature | Yi Peng Festival | Loy Krathong Festival |
| When | Full moon of the second month of the Lanna lunar calendar (November) | Full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (November) |
| 2025 Dates | Nov. 5-6 | Nov. 6 |
| Main Activity | Releasing sky lanterns (Khom Loi) into the night sky | Floating lotus-shaped baskets (Krathongs) on rivers |
| Where Celebrated | Primarily in Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai | Celebrated nationwide across Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Bangkok, Phuket |
| Symbolism | Letting go of bad luck and welcoming good fortune | Honoring the Goddess of Water and letting go of past mistakes |
| Participation | Sky lantern release at private events (such as CAD), ticket required | Floating krathongs on rivers, with community events, no ticket required |
Yi Peng Festival – Thailand's Sky Lantern Festival
What is Yi Peng?
Yi Peng (or Yee Peng) is a traditional Lanna festival celebrated primarily in Northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai. The term "Yi Peng" comes from the Lanna language, where "Yi" means "two" and "Peng" refers to the full moon day.
The main highlight of Yi Peng is the release of thousands of paper lanterns, or khom loi, into the night sky. This symbolizes letting go of misfortune and welcoming good luck.
The festival also features illuminated temples, lantern decorations, and cultural performances, making it a vibrant celebration of Northern Thai traditions and Buddhist practices.
Where to Experience Yi Peng in 2025?
Chiang Mai – the most famous Yi Peng celebrations happen here. Due to safety regulations, sky lantern releases no longer take place in the city center. Instead, you’ll need to attend an organized event at a private venue. Tickets are required for these events.
Top places to experience Yi Peng in Chiang Mai include:
- Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lanterns Festival
- Chiang Mai Authentic Sky Lantern
- Yee Peng Lanna International (Mae Jo)
Want to know how these events differ and which one is the best for you? Check out our full comparison and recommendations on our Yi Peng ticket page.
For a free experience of the Yi Peng atmosphere, visit Tha Phae Gate and nearby temples in the Old City, where you'll find lantern displays and cultural performances.
If you're interested in smaller, less commercialized celebrations, you can also explore other northern cities like Lamphun and Lampang, which hold traditional Yi Peng festivities.
To fully participate in the lantern release, booking a ticketed event is the best option. Popular events like Chiang Mai CAD provide a safe and spectacular experience.
2025 tickets for Chiang Mai CAD are available now – be sure to secure your spot before they sell out!
Loy Krathong Festival – Thailand's Water Lantern Festival
What is Loy Krathong?
Loy Krathong, or the Thailand Lights Festival, is a beautiful celebration where people show gratitude to the Goddess of Water. The main tradition is releasing lotus-shaped baskets (krathongs) into rivers, lakes, and canals while making wishes and starting fresh.
Loy means “to float,” and krathong is a small basket, usually made from banana leaves and filled with candles, incense, and flowers. People often add hair or fingernails to their krathongs as a way to let go of past mistakes and negativity. It’s a time to purify the mind and invite good fortune for the year ahead.
Sukhothai Lanterrn FestivalWhere to Celebrate Loy Krathong in 2025?
Since Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide, you have many options:
- Chiang Mai – A top spot because of its Yi Peng celebrations happening at the same time. The Ping River and city moats are filled with thousands of floating krathongs. You’ll also find a large krathong parade, adding to the vibrant festivities.
- Sukhothai – Considered the birthplace of Loy Krathong, offering a historical and traditional experience at Sukhothai Historical Park.
- Bangkok – Celebrated along the Chao Phraya River, with large events at Asiatique and ICONSIAM. Best for those who want a mix of modern and traditional celebrations.
- Phuket & Beach Destinations – Perfect for a relaxed, beachfront Loy Krathong experience. Many people float krathongs in the sea.
Attending the Loy Krathong festival is free. You can join a krathong-making workshop, with some hotels offering the experience. Alternatively, you can buy a krathong along the river and join the locals in releasing it.
Plan Your Thailand Lantern Festival Experience (2025)
1. Highly recommend experiencing both festivals in Chiang Mai.
Stay at least 3-4 days in Chiang Mai to fully enjoy Yi Peng and Loy Krathong celebrations. When in Chiang Mai, don’t miss the Doi Suthep Temple or a trek to the nearby elephant sanctuaries for a truly immersive Thai experience.
2. Book Early!
- Yi Peng Lantern Release: Tickets for private events sell out months in advance, so it’s crucial to secure your spot early.
- Hotels: Chiang Mai fills up quickly during the festival, so book your stay as soon as possible.
3. Weather in November
November marks the cool season in Thailand, with pleasant temperatures (25-30°C) and low rainfall—perfect for outdoor festivals and celebrations.
Join Us for a Truly Magical Experience in 2025!
Whether you want to release a sky lantern in Chiang Mai or float a krathong in Bangkok, Thailand’s Lantern Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Join us for a magical trip! Our tours include:
- Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival tickets
- Loy Krathong experiences in Chiang Mai, Bangkok & Sukhothai
- Exclusive cultural activities such as Thai traditional costume & best sightseeing spots
Check out our Thailand Lantern Festival 2025 tours & book your spot today!
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