The Lantern Festival in Thailand, one of the most enchanting cultural celebrations in the world, transforms the country into a glowing wonderland. Known as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, it’s set to illuminate the skies on November 5th and 6th, 2025, with the grand sky lantern release taking place in Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand. At the same time, across the rest of the country, the Loy Krathong Festival — the Floating Lantern Festival — turns rivers, lakes, and ponds into sparkling seas of light.
Together, these two festivals create the most magical and memorable nights you can experience on your Thailand tour package — blending spirituality, gratitude, community, and just the right touch of fairytale charm. Whether you’re a traveler seeking breathtaking beauty, a photographer chasing golden skies, or a soul in searc
Imagine standing beneath a sky illuminated by golden lanterns drifting into the heavens — a symbol of releasing negativity and welcoming good fortune. Then, picture floating a handmade krathong (decorated basket) down a river, symbolizing letting go of worries and paying respect to the water goddess.
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival and Loy Krathong Festival together form Thailand’s most photogenic and spiritual celebration — one that every traveler dreams of witnessing at least once in a lifetime.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand in 2025, this detailed guide covers everything — from festival dates and destinations to travel tips and experiences.
Understanding the Dual Celebrations – Yi Peng & Loy Krathong
What Is Yi Peng (Sky Lantern Festival Thailand)?
The Yi Peng Festival (also spelled Yee Peng) is celebrated primarily in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand’s cultural heart. The word “Yi” means “two,” and “Peng” means “full moon” — together marking the full moon of the second lunar month in the Lanna calendar.
During Yi Peng, locals and tourists release khom loi — rice-paper lanterns with candles inside — into the night sky. This act symbolizes letting go of past misfortunes and making wishes for the future.
The sight of thousands of glowing lanterns floating upward together creates a mesmerizing, almost magical spectacle — one that embodies peace, hope, and renewal.
What Is Loy Krathong (Floating Lantern Festival Thailand)?
While Yi Peng takes place in Northern Thailand, Loy Krathong is celebrated across the entire country. The name translates to “float a basket.” Participants create beautiful krathongs — banana leaf baskets decorated with flowers, incense sticks, and candles — and release them into rivers, lakes, and ponds.
This act pays homage to Phra Mae Khongkha, the Goddess of Water, thanking her for abundance and asking for forgiveness for any pollution caused throughout the year.
Dates of Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025
The Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025 is expected to take place on:
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Yi Peng Festival 2025: Wed, 5 Nov, 2025 – Thu, 6 Nov, 2025
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Loy Krathong Festival 2025: Wed, 5 Nov, 2025 – Thu, 6 Nov, 2025
Since both are based on the lunar calendar, exact dates may vary slightly. Be sure to check for local announcements closer to your travel date.
Best Places to Experience the Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025
1. Chiang Mai – The Heart of Yi Peng Festival
Chiang Mai is the spiritual center of Yi Peng, where the night sky fills with thousands of floating lanterns. The most popular release spots include:
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Mae Jo University (Yi Peng Lanna International): The most famous event for tourists.
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Nawarat Bridge and Ping River: Free public lantern releases with local participation.
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Tha Phae Gate: Cultural performances, food stalls, and traditional music.
If you’re planning to witness the Sky Lantern Festival Thailand 2025, Chiang Mai should top your list.
For an unforgettable northern Thailand experience, explore our curated packages like the
👉 4 Nights 5 Days Thailand Tour Package
👉 7 Nights 8 Days Thailand Holiday Package
and extend your journey to Chiang Rai’s temples after the festival.
2. Sukhothai – The Cradle of Loy Krathong
Sukhothai, the ancient capital of Thailand, hosts one of the most authentic Loy Krathong celebrations. The historical park becomes illuminated with candles, fireworks, and floating lanterns reflecting in the temple ponds.
The Loy Krathong and Candle Festival in Sukhothai is a cultural experience featuring parades, traditional Thai dance, and exhibitions.
It’s an ideal destination for those who want to combine historical charm with the mystical glow of floating lanterns.
3. Bangkok – Modern Meets Traditional
In Bangkok, the Loy Krathong Festival 2025 is celebrated at several riverside spots, including:
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Asiatique The Riverfront
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Lumpini Park
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Benjakitti Park
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Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple)
Locals and tourists alike float krathongs along the Chao Phraya River, turning the capital into a glowing sea of light.
If you’re short on time, consider booking a compact yet immersive itinerary like the
👉 3 Nights 4 Days Thailand Tour Package
for a quick cultural escape.
4. Phuket – Lanterns by the Sea
Phuket offers a tropical twist to the Lantern Festival with its beach celebrations. Locals release lanterns along Patong, Kata, and Karon Beaches, creating stunning visuals of lights floating both on the sea and in the sky.
This is a great destination if you want to blend the spiritual energy of the Thailand festival of lights with a luxurious island vacation.
For a relaxing holiday experience, check out our
👉 5 Nights 6 Days Thailand Tour Package
— ideal for combining Phuket, Krabi, and the festival events.
5. Chiang Rai – The Tranquil Alternative
Chiang Rai celebrates both Yi Peng and Loy Krathong but in a quieter, more intimate way. You can join local communities for small lantern releases and temple prayers.
It’s a hidden gem for those who want to avoid tourist crowds and capture the spiritual essence of the Lantern Festival in Thailand.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance of Lanterns in Thailand
Both Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals symbolize letting go — releasing misfortunes and making room for good fortune and spiritual renewal.
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Sky Lanterns (Yi Peng): Represent prayers and wishes ascending to heaven.
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Floating Lanterns (Loy Krathong): Symbolize gratitude and forgiveness towards nature.
The act of releasing light, whether into the sky or water, brings a sense of calm, reflection, and connection — a true embodiment of Thai culture’s peaceful philosophy.
Top Things to Do During Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025
1. Join a Lantern Release Ceremony
Participate in a group lantern release at Mae Jo University or Ping River. Make your wish and watch your lantern float away — it’s one of the most memorable travel moments ever.
2. Float Your Own Krathong
Purchase or craft your own krathong using banana leaves, flowers, and candles. Some hotels and temples organize workshops for tourists.
3. Attend Cultural Parades
Both festivals feature parades with dancers, drummers, and monks. Chiang Mai’s Tha Phae Gate and Sukhothai’s park are the best places to experience this.
4. Capture Iconic Photos
From temples glowing with candlelight to lanterns floating across rivers, it’s a paradise for photographers.
5. Try Thai Street Food
Explore local food markets — from grilled satay to mango sticky rice, everything tastes even better under lantern-lit skies.
Travel Tips for Attending the Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025
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Book Early: Chiang Mai hotels sell out fast during Yi Peng; book 3–4 months in advance.
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Dress Modestly: Especially if you’re visiting temples or participating in local rituals.
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Avoid Plastic Lanterns: Choose biodegradable ones to protect the environment.
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Arrive Early: Public lantern releases can get crowded.
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Respect Local Customs: The festival has deep spiritual roots — participate mindfully.
For a hassle-free festival journey, choose from packages like:
👉 6 Nights 7 Days Thailand Tour Package
👉 Thailand Honeymoon Tour Package 8N 9D
These tours let you blend cultural exploration with romantic or family adventures.
Best Time to Visit Thailand for Festivals and Weather 2025
The Lantern Festival coincides with Thailand’s cool season (November–February), when temperatures range between 20°C and 28°C — ideal for sightseeing.
You can combine your festival visit with beach destinations like Phuket or Krabi, or explore northern cities such as Chiang Rai and Pai.
FAQs About Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025
Q1. When is the Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025?
The Lantern Festival (Yi Peng and Loy Krathong) is expected between November 14–16, 2025.
Q2. Where is the best place to see the Sky Lantern Festival in Thailand?
Chiang Mai is the best place to witness the Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival — particularly at Mae Jo University and Nawarat Bridge.
Q3. Can tourists participate in the Lantern Festival?
Yes, both locals and tourists are welcome! You can buy lanterns at the venue or join organized release events.
Q4. Is the Lantern Festival free in Thailand?
Many public lantern releases are free, but private events like Yi Peng Lanna International require tickets.
Q5. What’s the difference between Yi Peng and Loy Krathong?
Yi Peng involves releasing sky lanterns, mainly in Northern Thailand, while Loy Krathong focuses on floating lanterns across the country.
Conclusion – Witness the Light of Thailand
The Lantern Festival in Thailand 2025 is more than a visual delight — it’s a spiritual journey that connects people, nature, and hope. Whether you’re watching thousands of lanterns rise over Chiang Mai’s skies or releasing your own floating krathong into the Chao Phraya River, this experience will stay with you forever.
For travelers seeking the perfect Thailand itinerary during the festival season, explore Travel Vichar’s curated packages such as:
This November, let the glow of a thousand lanterns light your way through the Land of Smiles — and make your Thailand journey shine brighter than ever.
