Prepare to have your jaw hit the floor because Yi Peng Festival 2024 is coming in hot (quite literally, thanks to all the lanterns)! Scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2024, Yi Peng is one of the most mesmerising festivals in Thailand, famous for filling the sky with thousands of glowing lanterns.
The Glowing History of Yi Peng
Yi Peng (also spelled Yee Peng) is an ancient Lanna (Northern Thai) festival that traces its roots back to the old Kingdom of Lanna, which was centred in what is now Chiang Mai. While Loy Krathong is celebrated across Thailand by floating krathongs (banana-leaf boats) on rivers, Yi Peng adds its own unique twist by setting lanterns called khom loi soaring into the sky.
Traditionally, these floating lanterns were launched as a symbol of letting go of negativity and bad luck, while making a wish for good fortune.
What to Expect in 2024
Chiang Mai is the heart and soul of Yi Peng, so if you’re anywhere else, get yourself to Northern Thailand ASAP. The festivities typically begin at dusk when people gather at temples, parks and along the Ping River to start preparing their lanterns. And by “prepare”, we mean they’re busy lighting them, making a wish and praying that the lantern doesn’t catch on fire or fly straight into a tree.
Once the signal is given, thousands of lanterns are released at the same time, creating one of the most amazing sights you’ll ever witness. The glowing lanterns rise into the night sky, floating like celestial jellyfish, while the sound of prayers, chants and laughter fills the air.
Aside from lantern launching, expect temples to be decked out in dazzling decorations, processions of monks and candlelit ceremonies that will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a Thai fairy tale. The Tha Phae Gate and Three Kings Monument are hot spots for viewing the lanterns and the atmosphere is absolutely buzzing with excitement.
How to Survive (and Thrive) at Yi Peng 2024
- Lantern Hack: Don’t just buy any old lantern off the street. Make sure it’s eco-friendly and won’t hurt the environment, because after all, you’re floating a wish into the universe, not garbage. Also, note that releasing lanterns isn’t allowed everywhere, so head to designated spots in Chiang Mai where it’s safe and legal.
- Pro Camera Tip: Unless you want 87 photos of blurry, white blobs in the sky, bring a tripod for your phone or camera.
- Dress Code: Yi Peng is a deeply spiritual festival, so if you’re visiting temples or participating in ceremonies, wear something respectful. That means no crop tops, flip-flops or hotpants.
- Festival Foodies: This is Thailand, so you can bet there will be street food galore. Chow down on grilled meats, sticky rice and other local delicacies while watching the lanterns float away.
- Crowd Control: Chiang Mai gets packed during Yi Peng, so brace yourself for crowds. Get to the best viewing spots early, or book a spot at a temple or riverside hotel if you want that VIP treatment.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Yi Peng is more than just a pretty light show; it’s an unforgettable experience that blends ancient traditions, spiritual meaning and a touch of modern fun. Watching thousands of lanterns drift into the sky isn’t something you see every day, and let’s be real, it’s a memory that’ll last a lifetime.
So, mark your calendars, get those cameras ready and head to Chiang Mai for Yi Peng 2024. Because in a world full of festivals, this one really shines – literally.
