The Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2026, also called Yi Peng or Khom Loi, is one of Thailand’s most famous lantern events.
This guide covers the official 2026 dates, free and ticketed lantern events, local rules for tourists, and where to safely enjoy lantern releases in Chiang Mai.
✨ What Is the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival? (Yi Peng / Khom Loi)
The Chiang Mai Lantern Festival, known as Yi Peng or Khom Loi, is one of Thailand’s most famous cultural events, featuring thousands of sky lanterns released into the night sky.
Yi Peng is a traditional Lanna festival held in northern Thailand, mainly in Chiang Mai. It follows the lunar calendar and usually takes place in November, around the full moon.
Yi Peng vs Loy Krathong – Key Differences
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong are different festivals held at the same time.
Yi Peng focuses on releasing sky lanterns, while Loy Krathong involves floating lanterns on rivers and waterways.
In Chiang Mai, both festivals overlap, allowing visitors to experience lanterns in the sky and on the water during the same period.
Cultural Meaning of Sky Lanterns
Lanterns are believed to carry away troubles and bring blessings for the year ahead, making this festival deeply meaningful for locals and unforgettable for visitors.
📅 Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2026 Dates & Schedule
Lantern releases traditionally symbolize letting go of bad luck and making wishes for the future.
Today, the festival combines traditional beliefs with organized events for both locals and visitors.
Official Yi Peng 2026 Dates
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2026 in Chiang Mai will take place on November 24–25, 2026, based on the Lanna lunar calendar.
These two days mark the main lantern-release events, including official ticketed venues such as Mae Jo and CAD. Cultural activities and related celebrations are also held around the same period in the city.
💡 Tip: The lantern release usually takes place between 7:00–9:00 PM.
Main Festival Areas: Mae Jo, CAD & City Locations
Yi Peng events are held at ticketed venues and public city locations.Large-scale lantern releases for tourists usually take place at venues such as Mae Jo and CAD, where releases are organized and permitted.
City celebrations happen around temples and public spaces, though lantern releases are often restricted.
While free lantern releases are available, always verify with local authorities due to government restrictions.
👉If you are visiting Chiang Mai for Yi Peng, choosing accommodation near the Old City or along major transport routes can make it easier to access festival areas.
🎟️ Yi Peng / Khom Loi Festival Tickets
Tickets for official lantern-release events are sold through authorized festival websites and selected travel platforms.
Popular events often sell out in advance.
Official Ticket Websites
Buy only from official organizers or trusted travel platforms to avoid scams.
- Ticket information will be updated as soon as official sales are announced.
- Official CAD Website
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Provides various ticket packages, including VIP and standard options, with or without transportation. Tickets are priced between ฿4,800 and ฿15,500.
- GetYourGuide
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Offers tickets for both dates, with the note that vouchers are not e-tickets; confirmation emails are required.
- Trip.com
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Offers official tickets for the CAD venue, including options for half-day tours with transportation. Tickets are available for both November 5 and 6, 2025.
Ticket Types & What’s Included
Ticketed events typically offer several categories, such as standard and VIP.
Tickets usually include venue access, a lantern, cultural performances, food, and shared transportation.
For tourists, ticketed venues are the safest way to release lanterns legally.
⚠️ Lantern Rules for Tourists in Chiang Mai
Where Tourists Can Release Lanterns
Lanterns cannot be released freely throughout Chiang Mai.
Tourists may only release lanterns at designated areas or approved events.
Ticketed venues provide a controlled and legal environment for lantern releases.
Restricted Areas & Safety Rules
Lantern releases are restricted in many city areas, especially near airports and central zones.
Local authorities enforce regulations during the festival, and violations may result in fines.
Visitors should always follow local rules and event guidelines.
❓ FAQ – Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2026
When is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2026 in Chiang Mai?
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2026 will be held on November 24–25, 2026.
✔ Summary – Plan Your Yi Peng 2025 Trip
The Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2026 is a unique cultural experience in northern Thailand.
By understanding the dates, ticket options, and local rules, visitors can enjoy Yi Peng safely and responsibly.
