Are you currently in Thailand for an internship, work, or study? Don't miss the chance to discover one of the country's most fascinating traditions: Loy Krathong and Yi Peng.
10 Nov, 2026

Loy Krathong & Yi Peng: Thailand’s Unique Traditions of Letting Go of Bad Luck and Welcoming Good Fortune.

Are you currently in Thailand for an internship, work, or study? Don't miss the chance to discover one of the country's most fascinating traditions: Loy Krathong and Yi Peng.

Usually celebrated in November, these festivals light up the night with candles and lanterns floating on rivers and glowing in the sky. But did you know that each festival has its own meaning?

What are Loy Krathong and Yi Peng?

Loy Krathong is a Thai tradition where people release small decorated baskets called krathongs onto rivers. These baskets are usually made from banana leaves and decorated with flowers, candles, and incense. The tradition represents gratitude to the Goddess of Water and symbolizes letting go of past mistakes and negative things.

Meanwhile, Yi Peng is a traditional festival celebrated by the Lanna people in Northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai. It is known for releasing paper lanterns, called khom loi, into the night sky as a symbol of prayers, hopes, and good fortune.

How are These Festivals Celebrated?

There are several interesting activities you can enjoy during the celebrations, including:

  • Floating decorated krathongs on rivers.
  • Watching paper lanterns light up the night sky.
  • Enjoying traditional Thai parades and costumes.
  • Watching traditional Lanna music and dance performances.
  • Visiting temples and streets decorated with beautiful lanterns.

Chiang Mai: A Great Place to Experience Loy Krathong and Yi Peng

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations to experience these festivals. Some places worth visiting include Tha Phae Gate, Nawarat Bridge, Wat Phan Tao, and the Ping River area.

Besides enjoying the festivals, you can also explore the Old City, visit historic temples, and try local Northern Thai food.

When Do These Festivals Take Place?

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are usually celebrated in November, following the Thai lunar calendar. In 2026, Loy Krathong falls on November 24. Meanwhile, one of the special Yi Peng events in Chiang Mai, the CAD KhomLoi Sky Lanterns Festival, is scheduled for November 24–25, 2026.

Keep in mind that sky lantern releases are only allowed in designated areas due to aviation safety regulations.

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Living abroad is not just about studying or gaining work experience. It's also an opportunity to discover new cultures and experience local life.

Through Bright Internships' international internship programs, you can gain valuable work experience in Thailand while exploring everything the country has to offer outside working hours.

Who knows? You might even get the chance to experience the magic of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng in person