Yee Peng Lanna Sky Lantern Festival 2026 (YLF2026) 24 - 25 November 2026

Must Do Experiences

• Release your own handcrafted Yee Peng sky lantern into the starlit sky as thousands of others rise around you, creating a sea of golden light

• Savor a traditional Northern Thai dinner while soaking in the vibrant cultural performances on stage

• Explore the beautifully decorated festival grounds at Gassan Panorama Golf Club, adorned with intricate Lanna-style lantern displays and photo opportunities

• Capture the mesmerizing moment when all lanterns are released simultaneously in a breathtaking collective ascent

Hidden Gems

• Arrive early in the afternoon to explore the festival grounds before the lantern release begins — the golden hour lighting creates stunning photo backdrops

• Visit the nearby ancient city of Lamphun before the festival to see the beautiful Hariphunchai Temple, adding a spiritual layer to your Yee Peng experience

• Look out for the traditional Mekhala lantern-making workshops where artisans demonstrate the ancient art of crafting khom loi lanterns by hand

What Makes it Special

• Exclusive access to the Gassan Panorama Golf Club venue, offering a stunning elevated setting for the lantern release against the backdrop of Chiang Mai's lush hills

• Complimentary shuttle transfer from Central Festival Chiang Mai makes this hassle-free experience accessible to all travelers

• A carefully curated blend of authentic Lanna cultural performances, delicious Northern Thai cuisine, and the magical lantern ceremony — all in one unforgettable evening

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The Yee Peng Lanna Sky Lantern Festival takes place on November 24-25, 2026, coinciding with the full moon in the traditional Lanna calendar. November is the best month to visit Chiang Mai as the weather is cool and dry, providing perfect conditions for this outdoor evening celebration.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a tripod or stable surface with a slow shutter speed (2-4 seconds) to capture the lanterns glowing against the night sky without blur

• Position yourself with the lantern release area in frame along with the silhouettes of attendees for a truly cinematic composition

• Shoot during the golden hour before the release to capture the beautifully decorated venue and the warm ambient lighting of the festival grounds

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When releasing your lantern, take a moment to close your eyes and make a sincere wish — this is a deeply personal and spiritual tradition in Lanna culture Dress modestly and respectfully when attending the festival, as it holds significant Buddhist meaning for local participants It is customary to place your lantern gently into the air rather than throwing it, allowing it to rise naturally as a symbol of letting go

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Traditional Lanna folk dance performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northern Thailand

• Live traditional music ensemble featuring authentic Lanna instruments

• Grand collective sky lantern release ceremony — the highlight moment of the evening

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always hold your lantern by the base when lighting the fuel cell — never touch the paper canopy as it is highly flammable

• Follow all instructions from festival staff during the lantern release to ensure the safety of all attendees

• Keep children and elderly companions close during the lantern release as large crowds gather and the grounds may be dimly lit