Loy Krathong Lantern Festival
Loy Krathong is a festival celebrated throughout Thailand with the festivities in Chiang Mai being especially well known. "Loy" means to float and a "Krathong" is a small boat made from the wood and leaves of banana trees.
During the festival, thousands of handmade boats are released into the city's moat. Thai people believe the floating boat, decorated with flowers, will take away sins and bad luck and carry their wishes for the future.
The Yee Peng also happens in Chiang Mai, but only in Chiang Mai, and coincides with Loy Krathong. The festival is the reason why so many tourists flock the city for 3 or 4 days. The event, made famous for its thousands of light lanterns floating into the night sky, has become a must-do for tourists and backpackers.
We were in the city to celebrate both festivals and today was the opening ceremony - the beginning of three magical days that would transform Chiang Mai into a city of light.
Loy Krathong & Yee Peng Festival essentials
- When: Full moon of 12th lunar month (usually November). Coincides with Yee Peng festival. Chiang Mai celebrates for 3-4 days. Check exact dates before traveling!
- Best location: Chiang Mai is THE place for these festivals. Loy Krathong celebrated across Thailand, but Yee Peng (sky lanterns) is unique to Chiang Mai.
- Two festivals, one celebration: Loy Krathong = floating boats in water. Yee Peng = floating lanterns in sky. Both happen simultaneously in Chiang Mai creating magical atmosphere.
- Krathong boats: Handmade from banana tree wood/leaves, decorated with flowers, candles, incense. Represents letting go of negativity and making wishes.
- Spiritual meaning: Thai people release krathongs to honor water goddess, seek forgiveness, let go of grudges, and wash away bad luck from previous year.
- Book accommodation EARLY! Hotels fill up months in advance. Prices skyrocket during festival. Book 3-6 months ahead for best rates and availability.
- Expect crowds: Chiang Mai becomes extremely busy. Thousands of tourists + locals. Arrive early to spots for best positions. Patience required!
- Photography: Bring camera with good low-light performance. Lanterns look spectacular at night. Waterproof case useful near moat.
Note:
Pin These Moments
🌸 Floating Wishes
Thousands of handmade krathongs released into Chiang Mai's moat - carrying away bad luck and bringing good fortune.
✨ Festival of Lights Begins
The opening ceremony of Thailand's most magical celebration - three days of lanterns, boats, and wishes.
Have you experienced Loy Krathong or Yee Peng in Chiang Mai? What did you wish for when releasing your krathong? Leave us your comments below. We would love to hear from you.