The Lantern Festival in Thailand is actually two festivals happening at the same time: Yi Peng (sky lanterns in Chiang Mai) and Loy Krathong (floating lanterns nationwide). Those year, both fall on the 4th –25th November 2026.
Yi Peng is the iconic sky‑lantern release you may have seen on Instagram with thousands of glowing lanterns rising into the night sky. Loy Krathong is the water‑lantern festival where locals float candlelit baskets along rivers and lakes. Experiencing both together is one of the most magical travel moments in Asia.
What to expect
Yi Peng is centred in Chiang Mai, where locals and travellers release khom loi (sky lanterns) to symbolically let go of misfortune and welcome good luck. Loy Krathong happens across Thailand – Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Phuket – with floating lanterns, markets, and cultural performances.
The combination of sky lanterns rising and water lanterns drifting creates an atmosphere that feels spiritual, photogenic, and unforgettable.
Dates for 2026
- Yi Peng: 24–25 November 2026
- Loy Krathong: 25 November 2026 (Both tied to the full moon of the Thai lunar calendar).
Where to experience it
Chiang Mai is the heart of Yi Peng. The Old City, Tha Phae Gate, and riverside areas host lantern displays, markets, and cultural shows. Loy Krathong celebrations happen nationwide, but Chiang Mai and Sukhothai are especially beautiful. Note: Free mass sky‑lantern releases are banned inside Chiang Mai city due to aviation rules. The big mass releases happen at ticketed events outside the city.
Ticketed Sky-lantern events
These are the large, coordinated mass releases:
- CAD Khomloy (largest event)
- Yee Peng Lanna International
- Horizon Village
- Heritage Sky Lanterns
- Moonlight Sky Lanterns
- Prices range from 2,500–4,900 THB depending on the event. Tickets sell out 2–3 months in advance.
- FREE EXPERIENCES – Temple lantern displays – Floating krathongs on the Ping River – Old City cultural shows – Markets and street food These are beautiful but do not include the mass sky‑lantern release.—HOW TO GET THERE Fly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). The Old City is 10–15 minutes away by taxi or Grab. For ticketed lantern events, transport is usually included. —ESSENTIAL TIPS – Book hotels early — Chiang Mai fills up fast. – Bring a tripod if you want great photos. – Expect crowds, especially around Tha Phae Gate. – Combine Sukhothai (Loy Krathong) + Chiang Mai (Yi Peng) for the best experience. —