Thailand Lantern Festival Tours Your Private Journey Beyond Lanterns
For just two nights in 2026 – November 24 & 25 – Chiang Mai becomes a sea of light. Thousands of lanterns rise into the night during Yi Peng, while candlelit krathongs drift down the river for Loy Krathong.
And if you can't make it in November, the magic continues with the Chiang Mai New Year Countdown Festival on December 31.
With our exclusive tours, you'll enjoy VIP tickets with the best views (first three rows) and private experiences like krathong-making and a full-moon dinner, or choose to dress in a Thai costume with makeup and hairstyling for a special touch. This isn't just a trip—it's a memory you'll treasure forever.
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Signature Lantern Festival Journeys in Thailand
Trusted by thousands of travelers, our lantern festival experiences combine official event tickets, local expertise, and carefully planned journeys. Think of them as inspiring starting points for your private Thailand adventure.
As CAD’s largest official ticket partner, Thailand Highlights offers the best seats, guaranteed group seating, and exclusive prices for Chiang Mai’s most spectacular Yi Peng lantern celebration.
Private tour from US$159
Secure your official Chiang Mai New Year Countdown tickets with Thailand Highlights — celebrate 2027 beneath thousands of glowing lanterns, spectacular fireworks, and authentic Lanna cultural performances.
Private tour from 169
Combining the excitement of Bangkok, the unforgettable Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, and the tropical beauty of Phuket, this journey blends Thailand's most iconic celebration with its most relaxing beach escape.
Private tour from US$3,362
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Over 25% of our traveler choose to travel with us again.
Journeys by Theme, Inspired by Thailand
What's calling you to Thailand? Whether it's the magic of the Lantern Festival, the freedom of island hopping, or the simple joy of sharing new experiences as a family - we have a journey to match. Let your reason for travel be our guide.
Deeper into Chiang Mai: Our Curated Experiences
True connection happens in the small, genuine moments. These are our handpicked experiences that reveal the real Chiang Mai, just as an insider would see it.
Chiang Mai Yi Peng Lantern Festival
Experience one of Thailand's most magical nights as thousands of lanterns light up the sky.
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Temple Blessing Ceremony
Experience a traditional temple blessing led by local Buddhist monks in Chiang Mai.
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Loy Krathong Festival
Known as Thailand's Festival of Lights or Thailand Lantern Festival, it is one of the biggest festivals in Thailand.
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Elephant Encounters
Walk with rescued elephants through their jungle home-feed them, bathe them, and simply feel their gentle presence.
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Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Celebrate the beauty of Chiang Mai in full bloom at its most vibrant festival.
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Street to Kitchen
Step into a local home in Chiang Mai to learn and savor authentic Thai dishes.
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Your Stay is Part of the Story
A great hotel is more than just a place to sleep-it's part of the journey itself. That's why we handpick stays for their distinct character and sense of place.
About Thailand Lantern Festivals
Name Yi Peng
Date November
Location Chiang Mai
Duration 2 Days
Tickets Book in Advance
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. For the Yi Peng Festival and the New Year Countdown Lantern Festival, tickets are required and often sell out months in advance. As the No.1 official ticket agent, we secure your VIP access. Loy Krathong, on the other hand, is a free public celebration where you can join locals in floating krathongs on the river.
How can I experience Yi Peng and Loy Krathong?
Yi Peng features sky lantern releases over two nights, while Loy Krathong has one main day of parades and river rituals. In 2026, you can join the Yi Peng lantern release on November 24 and enjoy the Loy Krathong parade on November 25. Our private tours offer extra experiences like krathong-making workshops.
What's included in your festival tours?
Our tours include official VIP tickets, hotel transfers, and guides, plus cultural experiences like a krathong-making workshop or a full-moon dinner under the stars upon request. You can also extend your trip to explore Bangkok, Chiang Rai, or Phuket.
Is this festival suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the festivals are magical for families. Events can be crowded and run late, so we recommend private tours for flexible timing and a more comfortable experience.