Loy Krathong is one of the most magical festivals in Thailand, and Chiang Mai is one of the best places to experience it. Every year, thousands of people gather along the Ping River to release beautifully decorated Krathongs—floating baskets made of banana leaves, flowers, and candles—into the water as a way to give thanks and let go of negativity. But Chiang Mai's celebration is even more special because it coincides with Yi Peng, the mesmerizing sky lantern festival. During the dates of Loy Krathong Chiang Mai, the city is illuminated not just by candlelit Krathongs on the river but also by thousands of glowing lanterns drifting into the sky, creating a truly breathtaking sight.
Table of Contents
1. Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Dates 2025/26
2. Meaning of Loy Krathong
3. Where to Celebrate the Loy Krathong Chiang Mai 2025 & 2026
4. Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Festival Schedule
5. Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Program
6. Loy Krathong & Yee Peng Lantern Festivals Chiang Mai Thailand
7. Our Best Thailand Tours 2025 & 2026 Include Chiang Mai
1. When Is the Loy Krathong Chiang Mai 2025 & 2026
The Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals are celebrated annually in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with dates determined by the lunar calendar. Loy Krathong typically falls on the full moon night of the 12th month in the Thai lunar calendar, while Yi Peng is observed on the full moon of the second month in the Lanna lunar calendar, often coinciding with or occurring a day before Loy Krathong.
Lantern Festival Thailand Chiang Mai 2025 Dates:
●Loy Krathong Chiang Mai 2025 Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
●Yi Peng Festival Chiang Mai 2025 Date: Wednesday, November 5 - Thursday, November 6, 2025
Lantern Festival Thailand Chiang Mai 2026 Dates:
●Loy Krathong Chiang Mai 2026 Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2026
●Yi Peng Festival Chiang Mai 2026 Date: Tuesday, November 24 - Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Take a look at the Chiang Mai Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festival dates from 2024 to 2030 if you are interested:
| Thailand Chiang Mai Lantern Festival Dates |
| Year | Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Date | Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival Date |
| 2024 | Nov.16 (Saturday) | Nov.15-16 (Friday -Saturday) |
| 2025 | Nov.6 (Thursday) | Nov.5-6 (Wednesday -Thursday) |
| 2026 | Nov.25 (Wednesday) | Nov.24-25 (Tuesday-Wednesday) |
| 2027 | Nov.14 (Sunday) | Nov.13-14 (Saturday-Sunday) |
| 2028 | Nov.2 (Thursday) | Nov.1-2 (Wednesday-Thursday) |
| 2029 | Nov.21 (Wednesday) | Nov.20-21 (Tuesday-Wednesday) |
| 2030 | Nov.10 (Sunday) | Nov.9-10 (Saturday-Sunday) |
The Loy Krathong festival has no fixed dates, and it's a different date every year, which makes booking for the event confusing and troublesome. In spite of that, Loy Krathong is definitely an experience of a lifetime and one of the most awe-inspiring festivals that you will ever witness. It won't be a bad idea to time your visit to Chiang Mai during this festival. Contact us to customize all the arrangements and accommodations specific to your needs to enjoy the best Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai.
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2. Loy Krathong Festival Meaning
The term Loy Krathong roughly translates to "to float a basket." But it's so much more than just floating something on water – it's about connecting with tradition and the beauty of nature.
If you find yourself by the Ping River during the Loy Krathong Chiang Mai 2025 and 2026, you'll be mesmerized by the sight of the entire river glowing with countless floating baskets. These baskets, known as krathongs, are typically made from banana leaves, flowers, and include a candle and incense stick in the center.
If you're lucky enough to be there, you'll see vendors selling these ready-made krathongs along the streets, but if you're feeling crafty, why not make your own? It's surprisingly easy to do and adds a personal touch to the experience.
3. Best Places for Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai in 2025 & 2026
Chiang Mai is undeniably one of the most magical places to celebrate Loy Krathong. The city comes alive with stunning sights, sounds, and traditions. Whether you want to join the crowds or enjoy a more peaceful moment by the water, there's a perfect spot to celebrate Loy Krathong 2025 Chiang Mai for everyone.
The Ping River
The Ping River is arguably the heart of Chiang Mai's Loy Krathong celebrations. Picture this: thousands of glowing krathongs floating gently down the river, creating a sea of lights that reflect the night sky. You can join the locals and release your own krathong here, surrounded by beautiful temples and the lively atmosphere. It's a sight you won't soon forget, especially as lanterns begin to rise into the sky, filling the air with soft golden light. The riverbanks are lined with vendors, music, and food stalls, so you can grab a bite while soaking in the view.
Tha Pae Gate
For a mix of culture, history, and celebration, Tha Pae Gate is the place to be. It's one of Chiang Mai's most iconic landmarks, and during Loy Krathong, it's transformed into a vibrant festival ground. Locals gather here to celebrate with traditional performances, music, and rituals, and you'll find a wide variety of krathongs for sale. The area's charm is amplified as you stroll through the ancient gate, joining in the festivities, or simply watching the riverside displays of floating baskets and lanterns.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
If you're looking for something a little more lively, head over to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. The market is always bustling, but during Loy Krathong, it transforms into an even more colorful event. In addition to the usual shopping and street food, you'll find local artisans selling beautifully crafted krathongs and festive decorations. The atmosphere is electric, making it a fun place to celebrate if you enjoy being around people and want to take in the vibrant energy of the city.
Nong Buak Haad Park
For a quieter and more serene celebration, Nong Buak Haad Park is an ideal spot. Located near the Old City, this peaceful park features a large pond where locals release their krathongs. The calm environment and lush greenery make it a perfect place to enjoy the festival away from the larger crowds. You can relax by the water, listen to the soft sounds of nature, and take in the sight of floating baskets as they drift by under the stars.
Each of these spots offers a unique experience, making it easy to find the perfect place to immerse yourself in the magic of the Loy Krathong Festival Chiang Mai.
4. Loy Krathong Festival Schedule in Chiang Mai
The week leading up to Loy Krathong is full of anticipation and preparation. As the festival approaches, you'll notice colorful lanterns adorning buildings like the King's Monument and around Thapae Gate. Stalls start popping up along the streets, selling these beautiful lanterns, so you can get one ready for the festivities. The excitement truly builds as the event draws nearer!
◆First Day of the Loy Krathong Festival - Sky Lanterns Take Flight
The first day of the Loy Krathong Festival focuses on the breathtaking tradition of releasing sky lanterns. On this day, the night sky is filled with hundreds, if not thousands, of glowing lanterns drifting up into the air, as both locals and visitors join in the spectacle. One of the most iconic places to experience this is at Mae Jo University, particularly at the Lanna Dhutanka Grounds. It's here that a major sky lantern release takes place, and it's truly a sight to behold. The sight of thousands of lanterns floating into the sky at night is unforgettable.
>>> For more details on the sky lantern tradition, see: Everything & Guides about Yi Peng Lantern Festivals in Thailand
◆Second Day of the Loy Krathong Festival - The Peak of the Celebration
The second day is when Yee Peng comes alive, with Chiang Mai becoming the epicenter of the festival. As part of this, lit lanterns are released into the Ping River, creating a beautiful scene of shimmering lights across the water. Throughout the city, especially near Nawarat Bridge, there are a variety of activities, such as krathong-making competitions and the chance to float your own lantern. The celebration kicks off around 6 p.m., with festivities peaking between 7-10 p.m. This is when the streets and riversides are bustling, and the skies above are illuminated with fireworks. Expect the fireworks to continue well into the night, with the vibrant atmosphere lasting long after dark.
>>>Want to know how to float a krathong? Check out: Thailand Guide: Floating Flower Basket in Loy Krathong Festival
◆Third Day of the Loy Krathong Festival - The Grand Parade
The third and final day of the Loy Krathong Festival is the perfect way to wrap up the celebrations. The main event of this day is the grand parade, which starts around 6 p.m. and makes its way from Thapae Gate to the Chiang Mai Municipality Office. This grand procession features stunning floats, traditional dances, and cultural performances that attract thousands of spectators. It's an absolute highlight for anyone who wants to see the pageantry of the festival.
◆A Dual Experience - Loud and Quiet Festivities
While the sky lanterns create a peaceful and mesmerizing experience, the festival can also be quite loud, especially with the lively atmosphere of fireworks and the celebrations on the riverbanks. However, if you're looking for a quieter way to enjoy the festival, take a stroll along the river. You'll still see krathongs floating by, but the atmosphere here tends to be more serene. Plus, you can stop by food stalls along the way and savor some local treats while enjoying the quieter side of the celebration.
>>> For more unique activities during the Loy Krathong Festival, explore: Traditional Activities & Celebrations in Loy Krathong Festival
5. Chiang Mai Loy Krathong Program
You might be wondering if you need a ticket for the Loy Krathong Festival Chiang Mai, and the answer is yes — some events are ticketed. For years, there were two main krathong events during the festival: one was free and catered mostly to locals, while the other required tickets. However, in recent years, the free event has been canceled, leaving only the ticketed event for attendees.
The Loy Krathong program in Chiang Mai is typically held just before or after the three-day festival. The ticketed event takes place a little outside the city center and is known for its large-scale celebrations. Because of the event's popularity, tickets can be as high as $100 per person. They tend to sell out quickly, so it's a good idea to book in advance if you're planning to attend.
This event offers an unforgettable experience, with traditional ceremonies, lantern releases, and cultural performances. Be sure to secure your spot early to make the most of this beautiful celebration. To save time, just feel free to contact us to make your itinerary of the Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai well-organized.
6. When Loy Krathong Coincides with Yi Peng in Chiang Mai
If you're lucky enough to visit Chiang Mai during the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals at the same time, you're in for something truly magical. Imagine standing in the middle of the city with the sky filled with thousands of glowing sky lanterns and the river below dotted with floating krathongs — it's like a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Yi Peng, or the Lantern Festival, is a special celebration in northern Thailand. It's all about releasing khom loi (sky lanterns) into the night sky. The sight of these lanterns floating upwards, their soft light illuminating the dark, is absolutely stunning. Now, when Loy Krathong lines up with Yi Peng, it takes things to a whole new level. You get to enjoy the beauty of floating krathongs on the Ping River at the same time as the lanterns are filling the sky. It's a perfect blend of water, land, and sky, all lit up with candlelight.
The best part? The whole vibe is incredibly peaceful and reflective. You'll see people, locals and tourists alike, making wishes, expressing gratitude, or just taking in the beauty of the moment. If you happen to be at Mae Jo University, or Chiang Mai CAD Yi Peng Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival, for example, you'll be surrounded by thousands of people launching their sky lanterns into the night. Meanwhile, along the riverbanks, families and friends gather to float their krathongs.
Trust me, if you're there when these two festivals overlap, it's a moment you won't forget. It's not just about the beautiful sights — it's about the feelings you get when you see the sky and the river both lit up in this magical way. Whether you're lighting your own lantern or simply watching, it's one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave.
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If you're visiting Thailand during Loy Krathong, Chiang Mai is an absolute must! This charming northern city offers one of the most magical festival experiences, blending ancient traditions with breathtaking lantern displays. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the celebrations. Check out our recommended itineraries that include Chiang Mai—each can be fully customized to match your travel style:
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What We'd Like to Say
Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai is more than just a festival—it's a breathtaking celebration of light, culture, and tradition. Whether you're floating a krathong on the river, releasing a lantern into the night sky, or marveling at the vibrant parades, this unforgettable experience will stay with you forever. Ready to witness this magical Chiang Mai Loy Krathong festival in 2025 or 2026? Plan your perfect Chiang Mai trip now and immerse yourself in one of Thailand's most spectacular events!