Loy Krathong 2025 in Chiang Mai, Thailand
✨ Yi Peng / Loy Krathong Festival 2025
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The Meaning and Origin of Loy Krathong
Every year, on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, Thailand celebrates a festival called the “Loy Krathong Festival.”
The word “Loy” means to float, and “Krathong” refers to small boats made from natural materials such as banana leaves, flowers, and candles. It is believed that floating a krathong is a way to pay respect and apologize to Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water who nourishes life throughout the year. At the same time, it symbolizes letting go of sorrow, misfortune, and negative feelings, allowing them to drift away with the flowing water.
Floating a krathong is therefore a gesture of gratitude, a way to release negativity, and a chance to start anew.
Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai — The Yi Peng Tradition
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In Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng Festival is the northern Thai version of Loy Krathong, held around the same time as the central Thai festival but usually a little earlier. The celebration lasts for three days.
The Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai is famous for releasing sky lanterns, hanging lanterns, and grand krathong parades. The city comes alive with beautifully decorated processions, cultural performances, lantern displays around Tha Phae Gate, and people gathering to celebrate together. On these nights, the whole city glows with lantern lights and the smiles of locals and visitors alike.
Local Vibes — Loy Krathong in Doi Saket
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For those who wish to experience a calmer and more intimate side of Loy Krathong, Doi Saket is the perfect place to be. Here, local communities gather to host small yet heartwarming celebrations.
Within the festivals, you’ll find beautifully crafted krathongs from local contests on display, along with cultural performances by children, colorful lanterns, traditional music, and local food and drinks. There are also fun games and areas where visitors can float their own krathongs.
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If you want to discover the charming, down-to-earth side of the festival, Doi Saket’s local communities are ready to welcome you with warmth and joy.
Click here to see a snippet of this year’s celebration in our local village, Talat Mai, Doi Saket, Chiang Mai
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For many years, the Nong Bua Lakes area was home to one of Chiang Mai’s most vibrant Loy Krathong and Yi Peng celebrations. Unfortunately, construction in the area meant the event couldn’t be held in 2025. We look forward to seeing this beautiful tradition return in 2026 and beyond.
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