How do I participate in Yi Peng?

Khom loi are sold throughout Chiang Mai in the days leading up to and during the festival for around 20–50 THB each. You can release them at any time from open areas away from trees and power lines. For the most spectacular experience, join one of the organised mass release events — either the community temple events in the old city or the ticketed commercial events held at grounds outside the city.

Is releasing sky lanterns safe?

When used correctly and in appropriate areas, sky lanterns are safe. They are made of lightweight paper and a small wax fuel cell that burns out quickly. The main risks are fire from lanterns that don't fully extinguish before landing, and interference with aircraft. Always follow local authority guidelines, keep away from restricted zones near the airport, and only release in calm, windless conditions.

What is the difference between Yi Peng and Loy Krathong?

Yi Peng is a Lanna (northern Thai) tradition involving sky lanterns, while Loy Krathong is a national Thai tradition involving floating offerings on water. The two festivals share the same full moon night and in Chiang Mai they are celebrated together, creating both a sky and river spectacle. In central and southern Thailand, only Loy Krathong is celebrated.

Yi Peng Lantern Festival

ยี่เป็ง

Full moon of the second month of the Lanna calendar — coincides with Loy Krathong (Nov)Chiang Mai (epicentre); also celebrated across northern Thailand

At a Glance

Dates

Full moon of the second month of the Lanna calendar — coincides with Loy Krathong (Nov)

Location

Chiang Mai (epicentre); also celebrated across northern Thailand

Yi Peng is Chiang Mai's most iconic festival, a northern Thai celebration rooted in Lanna Buddhist tradition in which thousands of paper sky lanterns — khom loi — are simultaneously released into the night sky, creating one of the most photographed spectacles in all of Asia. Each lantern is a wish, a prayer, or a release of negativity; as it floats upward, it carries the launcher's aspirations skyward and symbolically removes misfortune from the body.

The festival coincides with Loy Krathong, meaning Chiang Mai simultaneously glitters with lanterns on the moat below and lanterns in the sky above. The most dramatic mass release events are organised by temples and community groups and typically take place over two to three evenings around the full moon. Visitors can purchase khom loi throughout the city and release them at any point, but participating in a coordinated mass release — where thousands of lanterns rise simultaneously — is a profound and unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Mass sky lantern release: thousands of khom loi ascending simultaneously over Chiang Mai
Temple ceremonies and processions at Wat Phan Tao and other historic Lanna temples
Lantern decoration workshops at community and guesthouse events
Combined water-and-sky spectacle when Loy Krathong's moat floats align with the lantern release

Practical Tips

Book accommodation in Chiang Mai at least six months ahead — the city is the most sought-after destination in Thailand during Yi Peng.
Mass commercial release events (such as those organised by event companies north of the city) sell tickets fast and provide a curated experience; temple events are free but less organised.
Check local regulations: releasing lanterns near the airport is banned during certain hours — follow official guidance to avoid fines.

Best Destinations

Chiang Mai

Yi Peng is a Chiang Mai-specific festival; the moat, old city temples, and surrounding countryside all host celebrations.

Chiang Rai

Holds its own smaller but beautiful Yi Peng celebrations around the full moon night.

Kanchanaburi

Some riverside areas in the north and west hold lantern releases that attract visitors seeking a less crowded alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

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