If you are looking for something interesting to do for your November break, here is a suggestion: head out to Thailand to experience the enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival. Also known as Yee Peng, it is celebrated primarily in Northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai being the focal point of this breathtaking spectacle. Picture thousands of radiant lanterns gracefully ascending into the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring display above the city. Save the date for November 15-16, 2024, to witness this religious and cultural celebration that will leave you spellbound. It's a time to pay homage to the Buddha, seek good fortune and wisdom, and release lanterns into the starry night. If you're considering attending this mesmerising festival this year, here are some essential things to know.
The Yi Peng Festival is also called the Sky Lantern Festival. It is a traditional festival in Thailand that is typically celebrated on the full moon night of November or December in the Gregorian calendar. During the festival, locals and visitors congregate around temples and palaces in Chiang Mai to take part in the ritual of releasing intricately crafted sky lanterns. These radiant lanterns are imbued with the collective hopes and prayers of the participants, symbolising wishes for good fortune, prosperity, and blessings.
"Yi Peng" originates from a Northern Thai language, where yi means "second" and peng means "full moon day(s)," indicating the date of this celebration. The Yi Peng Lantern Festival has its roots in the medieval Lanna Kingdom (1392–1775), which thrived from the late 13th century. Historically, Yi Peng has been linked to the conclusion of the rainy season and the start of the harvest season in Thailand. Consequently, it is a time of jubilation and gratitude for the plentiful harvest that supports communities. Moreover, the festival carries religious significance as it is observed to honour the Buddha.
The Yi Peng Festival spans three days and features many cultural activities. These include vibrant lantern displays, lively parades, traditional dance performances and live music shows. Delectable street food stalls are scattered throughout cities, and the air is filled with the crackling sounds of firecrackers. The festival also sees homes and buildings adorned with an array of bright colours and phang pradeep (earthenware lamps), adding to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the Yi Peng festival is the moment when participants release paper lanterns, known as khom loy, into the night sky. This ritual is deeply rooted in the belief that it dispels bad luck and misfortunes. As the lanterns ascend, people make wishes and pray for a prosperous future. Crafted from delicate rice paper, the release of these lanterns is often accompanied by heartfelt prayers and aspirations.
Several mass lantern releases are organised, such as at the renowned Chiang Mai CAD event, allowing visitors to partake in this tradition. During these releases, attendees are treated to the mesmerising spectacle of countless lanterns illuminating the night sky.
Some concerns have been raised regarding the festival's environmental impact. While many lanterns are constructed from eco-friendly rice paper, they also contain non-biodegradable components such as large metal wires and substantial amounts of wax. When lit, the lanterns emit carbon dioxide, contributing to air pollution and smog. Furthermore, once the festival is over, many of these lanterns end up in farms, rivers and the ocean, posing a threat to wildlife and marine animals.
The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is centred in Chiang Mai, the largest city in Northern Thailand. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The festival takes place at various locations within the city. Tha Phae Gate is the main venue where thousands of lanterns are released, while at Ping River, participants release floating lanterns that create a magical glow on the water. The Wat Phan Tao temple hosts traditional Buddhist ceremonies, including lantern releases and cultural performances. Additionally, Nawarat Bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals to release lanterns into the sky.
Yi Peng aligns with another renowned festival, the Loy Krathong Festival—both are frequently combined. You can engage in various experiences, from floating krathongs—small lotus-shaped vessels made from banana leaves, flowers and natural materials—to participating in ceremonies and rituals conducted at temples and sacred locations. Moreover, you can relish traditional Thai music, dance performances and cultural exhibitions. Explore downtown Chiang Mai alongside the lantern release event to experience the complete festivities. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and energy of the city.