Why You Shouldn't Visit Thailand Without Attending the Lantern Festival
Thailand is a country full of stunning landscapes, historic temples, and unparalleled cuisine. However, none of these things made me love Thailand as much as the Lantern Festival.
It was at the festival that I truly included Thailand as a country worthy of returning to again and again.
Attending this event is like immersing yourself in a magical celebration that combines tradition, spirituality, and visual beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime. What's more, I know people who have been to Thailand outside of the festival season and didn't like it there,
Which strongly proves that the festival experience makes a Thailand itinerary much more unforgettable.
🌕 The Symbolism of the Festival
The Lantern Festival is made up of two very famous and important religious and spiritual rituals there: Yi Peng and Loy Krathong.
During Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), thousands of lanterns made of rice and paper are released into the sky, symbolizing letting go of problems and spiritual renewal.
During Loy Krathong, small rafts decorated with flowers and candles are placed in the rivers, representing gratitude and asking for forgiveness from the goddess of water, Phra Mae Khongkha.
These celebrations take place throughout the country, but it is in Chiang Mai that they reach their peak, with festivities that transform the city into a spectacle of lights and colors.
🎟️ Free and Paid Events: Understand the Differences
In Chiang Mai, the festival is celebrated in two main ways: free and paid. The free events take place in the city streets, with parades, cultural performances and themed decorations. However, since 2020, releasing lanterns into the sky within the city has been prohibited due to fire and air safety risks.
Paid events, such as Yee Peng Lanna International, offer a more controlled and safe experience. At these events, participants are given lanterns to release in designated areas, accompanied by Buddhist ceremonies, traditional dinners and cultural performances.
So, if you want to enjoy the free version of the festival, you will certainly find a thousand cool options to enjoy this ceremony.
🌌 Yi Peng and Loy Krathong: Celebrating Together in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the only place in Thailand where the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals are celebrated simultaneously, creating a unique atmosphere. As the lanterns light up the sky, the rafts float on the rivers, providing an incomparable visual and spiritual spectacle. The celebrations include parades, temple decorations and cultural activities that involve the entire community.
Attending the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai is more than just a tourist activity; it is an immersion in Thai culture and spirituality.
If you are planning to visit Thailand, be sure to include this experience in your itinerary. The magic of the festival will certainly be the highlight of your trip.
Here on the Mah Trips website we have everything you need to have the best experience with itinerary, flights, accommodation and the FESTIVAL. Everything here in one place!