The Yi Peng festival of Chiang Mai is a cultural blast, with an incredibly stunning sought-after ceremony of lantern lighting that is worth attending.
The city of Chiang Mai comes to life during Yi Peng, with all the fireworks, lanterns, lights, tourists, parades, food, and extreme festive mood. This awe-inspiring festival is loaded with meaning for anyone who decides to participate, irrespective of their religious belief. Keep reading to learn more about the Yi Peng festival.
What Is Yi Peng?
Yi Peng is a unique festival of northern Thailand, celebrated on the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar (November). Popularly known as the “Festival of Lights”, Yi Peng has close ties with the ancient kingdom of Lanna. It was traditionally celebrated as a stand-alone event to mark the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of winter. However, Yi Peng is now celebrated in tandem with Loy Krathong (a similar Thai festival involving the release of lanterns onto water).
Where To Celebrate Yi Peng?
Yi Peng is primarily celebrated in the northern part of the country, specifically in Chiang Mai. The main locations of celebration include the Thapae Gate, Three Kings Monument, the Ping River, and the Old Town moat area. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle, the Ping River or Thapae Gate is where you should be heading to, for witnessing the mesmerizing swarm of floating lanterns in the sky.
When To Celebrate?
It is essential to remember that the dates of Yi Peng alter every year, due to the changing dates of the full moon of the twelfth Thai month. If you want to attend it, make sure you book in accordance with the Thai lunar calendar. The estimated date of the festival can be determined roughly a month in advance. The release of lantern takes place in two phases, the first one is the local and free traditional celebration, while the second one happens for the tourists, a week after the actual festival.
The Historical Relevance Of Yi Peng
History has it that Yi Peng was celebrated to offer one’s respect to Lord Buddha. This tradition has expanded over the years and has transformed into a week-long celebration with the locals as well as tourists actively participating in it.
KhomLoi
The stunning paper lanterns that are released during Yi Peng are known as KhomLoi. these are made out of a thin material such as rice paper. The fire starter or candle comes attached with the KhomLoi. The lighted candle generates warm air, causing the lantern to rise in the sky. You can buy KhomLoi from street vendors for the festival.
Hurry up! Plan a trip to Chiang Mai to witness this breathtaking festival that welcomes all.
