Yi Peng Lantern Festival (sometimes written as Yee Peng) in Chiang Mai is world-famous for its enchanting sight of thousands of lit lanterns rising into the night's sky over Chiang Mai.
We've put together all things you need to know about this romantic festival in Chiang Mai.
1. What is Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
Yi Peng Lantern Festival is an ancient festive event tracing back to the ancient Lanna Kingdom (in the late 13th Century). It was traditionally celebrated to mark the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the cool season. It is also one of the ancient traditions to honor Buddha in order to gain merit.
The main highlight of the festival is the release of thousands of paper lanterns, known as "khom loi", into the night sky. This act is believed to bring good luck and symbolize the release of worries and negative elements, while also making merit or offering prayers to deities or ancestors.
This joyous festival is predominantly celebrated in northern Thailand, with the largest celebrations held in Chiang Mai where Yi Peng coincides with the nationally celebrated Loy Krathong Festival (the famous Thailand Lights Festival).
2. When is the Yee Peng Lantern Festival 2023 in Chiang Mai?
In 2023, the Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival will be held on November 27-28th, 2023.
Yi means 'two' and Peng means 'full moon day', which refers to the date of this celebration. It takes place on the full moon night of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar (usually in November in the Western calendar).
3. How do Thai people celebrate Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
The most popular practice to celebrate the festival is the launch of khom loi, or lanterns, into the night sky. Each year, there are several venues to hold mass lantern releases, such as the famous Chiang Mai CAD, attracting an immense crowd eager to witness the captivating spectacle.
Want to join? Book a ticket to attend the Chiang Mai CAD mass lantern release right now.
Asia Highlights Travel has been the official partner of Chiang Mai CAD since 2019 and has helped over 10,000 worldwide clients attend this festival. Book right now to enjoy our exclusive premium experience.
Here are the prices for three kinds of tickets. Premium tickets are most recommended, as you will get closest to the stage and the chanting monks, receive priority shuttle transport with a business van, and have a buffet dinner for a special food zone.
- Premium ticket + transfer + dinner: US$ 199 (ONLY with Asia Highlights)
- VIP ticket + transfer + dinner: US$ 179
- Standard ticket + transfer + dinner: US$ 139
Chiang Mai CAD Yi Peng Festival 2023 - Secure Your Exclusive Tickets Before They're Gone!
Click to see the celebration timeline and questions you might have about experiencing the Yi Peng Festival.
Besides lantern release, there are plenty of activities that happen all over Chiang Mai during the festival. These include worship rituals, decoration contests, bazaars, traditional Thai dance shows, the official 'Yee Peng Parade', live music, and handicraft sessions. You can also expect lots of food vendors setting up, firecrackers, and fireworks.
Join one of our well-planned tours to fully experience this festival.
98.8% Positive Customer reviews among 10,000+
|
Great Experience
WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More
Stephen Hollis,
Aug 2023
|
Alisa has has been great to work with
Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More
Ana Rausch,
Aug 2023
|
Using Sharon right now to book our…
Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More
Tracy,
Aug 2023
|
Thailand, Singapore, Bali
In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More
Cassi Thunker,
Jul 2023
|
Very supportive
Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More
Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c,
Jul 2023
|
My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights
I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More
Richard,
Jul 2023
|
A pleasure to plan with
Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More
Chris Williams,
Jul 2023
|
Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand
The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More
CL,
Jul 2023
|
I never used a travel agent in my life
I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More
Antione Barry,
Jul 2023
|
Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!
Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More
Debi Hinerfeld,
Jul 2023
|
We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …
It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More
SIMO el ghobar,
Jun 2023
|
Wonderful Guides and Experience
Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More
Jessica Bennett,
Jun 2023
|
Guide - Chai
We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More
Customer,
Jun 2023
|
Our guide Tanni was kind
Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More
Marissa Manson,
Jun 2023
|
We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…
Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More
Diane Creitz,
Jun 2023
|
Tanni for the win!
14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More
Megan McGlynn,
Jun 2023
|
This isn't my first trip with Asia…
This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More
Katie Potesta,
Jun 2023
|
Amazing service
Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More
Alex,
May 2023
|
I have never hear of this company…
I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More
orge alvarez,
May 2023
|
Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…
From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More
Debbie Woods,
May 2023
|
4. What does the lantern release symbolize?
Yi Peng is not merely a visual spectacle; it is a tapestry of rituals and customs that infuse the festival with deeper meaning.
Lanterns (โคมลอย, khom loi) symbolize good luck, health, prosperity, or fortune. These delicate lanterns are crafted from rice paper and bamboo frames. People often write their hopes, dreams, and wishes on the lanterns.
Buddhists release the lanterns as a way to pay homage to Lord Buddha and follow the teachings of enlightenment. It is also seen as an act of letting go of past troubles and embracing positivity. As these lanterns ascend, they are believed to carry away negativity and bring good fortune for the future. If your lantern disappears into the dark before the light goes out, you will have an extremely good year.
Additionally, the lantern release signifies the unity and community spirit of the Thai people.
5. Why is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival celebrated?
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is celebrated to mark the full moon of the twelfth month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, usually falling in November. This festival holds great cultural and spiritual significance in Northern Thailand, particularly in the city of Chiang Mai.
This festival is celebrated as a way to release negative energy and wish for good luck and good fortune in the coming year. It is also one of the ancient traditions to honor Buddha in order to gain merit.
In addition to its spiritual and cultural significance, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival is also celebrated to mark the end of the rainy season or monsoon season in Northern Thailand.
6. Any other places to experience the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai?
Apart from the mass lantern releases, there are many other places to join the festival. You can go to the Ping River, Three Kings Monument, and Thapae Gate.
- Nawarat Bridge on the Ping River: This is where most of the Chiang Mai locals go to release their krathong floating lanterns on the nearby Ping River.
- Three Kings Monument: It is the place where the majority of activities take place. You can watch a candle-lighting ceremony and a Buddhist worship ritual.
- Thapae Gate: It is the place where many of the festival parades take place.
Besides lantern releases, you can experience many cultural activities, including worship rituals, decoration contests, bazaars, and traditional Thai dance shows.
7. What's the origin of Yi Peng?
Yi Peng Festival was adapted from Brahmin origins and is closely associated with the Thai Lanna culture.
Deeply rooted in Buddhism, some people believe the Yi Peng Lantern Festival originated in India with the legend of the candle-carrying bird which once visited the Gautama Buddha and spoke to him about merit. In Thailand, paying respect to Buddha is regarded as a way to be reborn into the next life to enjoy great popularity and purity.
8. What is the difference between the Yi Peng Festival and Loy Krathong?
One major difference is that during Loy Krathong raft-like krathong lanterns made from banana leaves are released to float on rivers and lakes whereas during Yi Peng bamboo paper Khom Loi lanterns are released into the sky.
Loy Krathong is celebrated all across Thailand while Yi Peng is celebrated mainly in northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai.
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
- Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong: Chiang Mai or Sukhothai
- Loy Krathong Festival 2023 in Chiang Mai: Date, Schedule & Tips
- How to Make a Krathong for Loy Krathong: A Step by Step Guide
- Loy Krathong 2023 in Bangkok: Date, Events, Top Places
- 15 Things You Didn’t Know About Loi Krathong Festival, the Thai Festival of Lights
- Loy Krathong Festival 2023 in Phuket: Date &Events
- Loy Krathong Festival in Krabi in 2023: Places and Events
- Loy Krathong vs Songkran
- 2023 Yi Peng Lantern Festival: CAD Official Tickets (Transfer+Dinner )
- Thailand Weather in January: Which Island/Best Places to Visit
- Thailand Weather in February: Which Island/Best Places to Visit
- Thailand Weather in March: Temperature, Places to Visit, Travel Tips
- Thailand Weather in April: Temperatures, Places to Visit, Songkran Festival
- Thailand Weather in May: Too Hot & Rainy? Best Places to Go and Travel Tips
- What's the Weather Like in Thailand in June?
- Thailand Weather in July: Temperatures, Best Places to Visit
- Thailand Weather in August: Temperature and Best Places to Go
- Thailand Weather in September: Temperature, Best Places to Visit
- Thailand Weather in October: Still Rain? Where to Visit?
- Thailand Weather in November: Which Island to Choose
- Thailand Weather in December: Best Places to Visit and Travel Tips
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.