Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festival in 2025: Everything You Need to Know

1. When is Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival?

The Thai lantern festivals, also known as the festivals of lights, encompass two major celebrations: Yi Peng and Loy Krathong. In 2025, the Loy Krathong festival will take place on November 15, and the Yi Peng festival will be held from November 15 to 16. While simultaneous, these two festivals differ in their symbolism.

2. Loy Krathong Festival: The Floating Lantern Festival

2.1 The meaning of Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) means “floating basket.” The Loy Krathong festival is held on the 12th full moon of the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November. In 2025, it will occur on November 15. "Loy" means to float, and "Krathong" refers to small baskets made of banana leaves decorated with flowers, candles, and incense sticks. These offerings are dedicated to the water goddess Pra Mae Khongkha.

>>>> Read more: Thailand's Top Cultural Festivals and Activities in November

2.2 What is a Krathong made of? How to Make a Traditional Krathong

Wrapped in banana leaves, a krathong begins with a slice of banana trunk as its base. During the Loy Krathong celebration, traditional flowers like lotus, rose, and marigold are carefully pinned to the base. Three joss sticks and a candle are placed on top to honor the water goddess Phra Mae Khongkha. To enhance its visual appeal, some people may also add a small flag or sparkler (Fai Yen).

Coins are added as a symbol of merit, and personal items like hair and nails are placed in the krathong to represent the release of negativity. It’s believed that this act helps guide souls to a better place. Traditionally, wooden pins are used to secure the elements, though toothpicks are a more modern alternative.

 How to Make a Traditional Krathong (Click to see)

• Base: Cut a thick slice of banana trunk for the foundation.
• Wrap: Cover the base with banana leaves and secure.
• Structure: Fold and pin small banana leaf pieces for layered design.
• Flowers: Decorate with lotus, rose, orchid, marigold, or globe amaranth.
• Center: Place three joss sticks and a candle.
• Extras: Add a small flag or sparkler (Fai Yen) if desired.
• Offerings: Include a coin or personal items like hair or nails for luck.
• Secure: Fix all parts with wooden pins or toothpicks.

Everyone makes their own krathong, often attaching a piece of paper with their wishes written on it. Once on the water, they symbolically carry away the participants' negative aspects of life. Some even include hair and nails, a purification ritual to rid themselves of past mistakes and harmful thoughts.

2.3 Historical background

Loy Krathong is steeped in ancient tradition, serving as a tribute to the water goddess (Phra Mae Khongkha). This festival is a poignant reminder of humanity's connection to nature, especially water, and is a time for seeking forgiveness for pollution caused throughout the year.

2.4 The Festivities

On the evening of the Loy Krathong festival, Thais flock to the shores and canals across the country. At nightfall, they light the candles and incense on the krathongs before gently placing them on the water. The illuminated rafts create a magical spectacle in the cities.

The celebration is brought to life with fireworks, Ramwong dances, and live music. And with food stalls offering local delicacies like grilled seafood, it’s easy to see why Loy Krathong is such a memorable festival.

2.5 Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong?

While celebrated nationwide, the Loy Krathong festival has a special charm in Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Bangkok (Click to see the destinations), and Ayutthaya.

Top spots for entertainment in Bangkok:

Sukhothai, the birthplace of this festival 600 years ago, is known for its ancient temples and traditions. Residents dress in traditional costumes and perform ritual dances. At Wat Mahathat temple, they light candles in paper bags and release them on the rivers, a symbolic act for luck and prosperity. 

In Chiang Mai, the Loy Krathong festival is celebrated with a unique blend of traditions and spectacular displays. The city becomes a hub of activity with parades showcasing intricate floats and traditional Lanna folk dancers. The Ping River lights up with countless krathongs, creating a magical atmosphere.

The festivities also include lively night markets, where visitors can enjoy local delicacies and purchase handmade crafts.

In Bangkok, the festival takes to the streets with parades of elaborate floats and folk dancers, while the krathongs illuminate the majestic Chao Phraya River. There are also boat races and fireworks displays.

Fun Fact: Eco-Friendly Loy Krathong!

Did you know? Loy Krathong is going green with krathongs made of bread and fruit that fish can eat, keeping the festival festive and eco-friendly.

Ayutthaya, one of Thailand's oldest cities, follows this tradition as well. Here, locals release "floating umbrellas" into the waterways instead of krathongs. These umbrellas are often decorated with flowers or lights, depending on the desired level of elaboration for this ritual of wishes. 

Tips for Attendees

• Loy Krathong is held on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. In 2025, confirm the exact date before planning.
• Chiang Mai hosts the most famous Loy Krathong celebration, though it can be crowded. Smaller towns offer the same charm with fewer people.
• Take part by buying or making your own krathong, an essential part of the Loy Krathong tradition.
• As Loy Krathong is a revered cultural event, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially near temples.

3. Yi Peng Festival: The Sky Lantern Festival

3.1 The Symbolism of Yi Peng

The Loy Krathong festival is a national event, while the Yi Peng festival is an ancient tradition of the former Lanna Kingdom in northern Thailand.

In Chiang Mai, the stronghold of Lanna culture, houses and temples are adorned with colorful lanterns announcing the festival. "Yi" means "two," and "Peng" means "full moon" in the Lanna language. The name "Yi Peng" translates to "Full Moon of the Second Month."

Like the Loy Krathong festival, the Yi Peng festival takes place during the full moon of the 2nd Lanna month, corresponding to the 12th month of the Thai calendar. 

Often referred to as the "Lantern Festival" or the "Festival of Light," Yi Peng's main highlight is when participants release paper lanterns, known as khom loy, into the sky.

During the Yi Peng festival, participants release silk paper lanterns called Khom loi, or "floating lanterns" in Thai, into the sky. A khom loi is made of thin silk paper with a crossed base that supports a wax heat source. Breaking the wax before lighting it maintains the flame. Releasing these lanterns at night symbolizes letting go of past misfortunes and hoping for future prosperity.

For Buddhists, making a wish during this act can make it come true.

3.2 How Yi Peng Unfolds

The Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai is known for its stunning light displays honoring the Buddha. Temples and streets are lit with "pang prateep," small clay pots holding candles. The three-day festival begins with community events on the first two nights, culminating in a city-wide celebration on the third.

>>> Good to know: Sky lanterns, often made from materials that don’t break down easily, can be a fire hazard and harm wildlife. Some places are now encouraging eco-friendly options and organizing cleanups, so we can enjoy Yi Peng while being mindful of the environment!

Lanterns light up the night sky, drawing photographers and travelers, while parades, dances, concerts, craft workshops, fireworks, and firecrackers keep local traditions alive.

4. Where to Buy the Tickets?

To fully experience the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals in Chiang Mai, you can purchase tickets through Yi Peng Chiang Mai Lantern Festival Official Website. Ticket options include:

• General Admission: Basic entry to the lantern release and viewing of floating krathongs on the river.
• VIP Packages: Prime seating, exclusive event access, traditional Thai dinner, and cultural performances.
• Group Packages: Special rates for groups, including guided tours and reserved spaces.
• Special Events: Separate tickets for specific ceremonies or performances.

It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for the Yi Peng festival, which coincides with Loy Krathong and draws many visitors. This ensures access to prime viewing areas and special events that may sell out quickly.

5. Tips for Enjoying the Festivals

Instead of buying a ready-made krathong, you can make your own. People often place a few coins inside as a symbol of prosperity and merit. For couples, Loy Krathong is also a moment to exchange wishes for happiness and loyalty.

Yi Peng has a strong religious side, so silence is appreciated during the prayers before the lanterns are released, which can last nearly an hour. It’s a magical experience, but it’s important to respect the tradition.

Tips for the festival:

• Transport: Grab and taxis are scarce; expect 30–60 minute waits. Renting a scooter is faster and less stressful.
• Restaurants: Popular spots, including Michelin-listed ones, often have long waits. Have alternatives ready.
• Festival site: The lantern release is 1–1.5 hours from the city center. Depositing your krathong in site pools is easier but less authentic than a river.

Event highlights:

• Buffet opens 5:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 7 p.m.
• Lantern release at 8 p.m.: each guest gets two lanterns. A cultural show lasts about 30 minutes before the countdown. Lighting the lanterns takes some practice.
• Around 9 p.m., thousands of lanterns rise with fireworks, a poetic and unforgettable sight.

If your budget allows, Yi Peng in Chiang Mai is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Conclusion, 

These lantern festivals are expressions of Thailand's rich cultural heritage, passionately celebrated as ancient traditions. They offer tourists opportunities to marvel, discover unique practices, and explore Thailand's millennia-old customs.

We hope this article has provided all the information needed to appreciate these enchanting festivals. Prepare to experience magical and spiritual moments during these celebrations! For more on Thai festivals, check out our other articles dedicated to this exceptional country.

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Source: Bangkok Post, Tourism Authority of Thailand