Loi Krathong 2026 will take place on Tuesday, November 24 in Thailand. During the Festival of Lights, participants float decorated krathongs carrying flowers, candles and incense on the water. In Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng festival will run from November 23 to 25, while Sukhothai will celebrate Loi Krathong from November 15 to 24.
Loi Krathong 2026: The Essentials at a Glance
- What? Thailand’s Festival of Lights, during which decorated rafts called krathongs are floated on the water.
- When? The main date for Loi Krathong 2026 is Tuesday, November 24, 2026.
- Where? Across Thailand, with particularly important celebrations in Chiang Mai, Sukhothai and Bangkok.
- In Chiang Mai: the municipal Yi Peng festival is scheduled from November 23 to 25, 2026.
- Key tip: book accommodation and transport several months in advance if you plan to visit Chiang Mai or Sukhothai.
🔎 Information checked on October 7, 2026
Programs and local regulations may still change as the festival approaches. The dates below are based on official announcements currently available for Chiang Mai and Sukhothai, as well as published rules governing sky lantern releases.
What Is Loi Krathong?
Loi Krathong, also commonly spelled Loy Krathong, is celebrated across Thailand. Its name describes the central ritual of the festival: loi means “to float,” while a krathong is a small decorated raft or basket that is placed on the water.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Loi Krathong
One widely accepted interpretation of Loi Krathong is that participants pay respect to Phra Mae Khongkha, the deity associated with water, and ask forgiveness for using and polluting water resources throughout the year.
The ritual also has a symbolic meaning of renewal. As the krathong floats away, participants symbolically let go of difficulties, grudges or bad luck from the past year. Some people traditionally place a lock of hair or a fingernail clipping inside the krathong.
What Are the Origins of Loi Krathong?
The exact origins of Loi Krathong remain debated. The festival is often associated with the Sukhothai kingdom, but historians also point to older rituals with Brahmanical and Buddhist influences.
Sukhothai remains the historic city most closely associated with Loi Krathong today, although it is difficult to state with certainty that the festival actually originated there.
When Is Loi Krathong in 2026?
The date of Loi Krathong changes every year. The festival takes place on the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November.
In 2026, Loi Krathong falls on Tuesday, November 24. Festivities may begin several days earlier or continue into the following day depending on the destination.
- Sukhothai: November 15 to 24, 2026, at Sukhothai Historical Park.
- Chiang Mai: municipal Yi Peng festival from November 23 to 25, 2026.
- Loi Krathong: main celebration on November 24, 2026.
Official sources: Thailand.go.th – Sukhothai 2026 festival ; Chiang Mai PRD – Yi Peng 2026 program.
If you are planning a trip during this period, see our guide to Thailand in November for weather conditions, recommended destinations and other events during the month.
Where to Celebrate Loi Krathong in Thailand
The experience varies considerably depending on the destination. Some cities focus on processions and cultural performances, while others offer a quieter atmosphere around temples and waterways.
- Chiang Mai: the most famous destination for the combination of Loi Krathong and the Yi Peng festival.
- Sukhothai: the historic city most closely associated with Loi Krathong, with illuminated temples and several days of events inside the historical park.
- Bangkok: celebrations take place at various locations along the Chao Phraya River, canals and in selected public parks.
- Southern Thailand: destinations such as Krabi also organize local celebrations. Check local rules before floating a krathong in the sea or other bodies of water.
Chiang Mai and Yi Peng in 2026
In Chiang Mai, the municipal Yi Peng 2026 festival will run from November 23 to 25.
In 2026, the main site for the municipal celebrations is moving from Tha Phae Gate to Ton Lam Yai Market Public Park, near the Ping River. Other activities will still take place throughout the city center, including around Tha Phae, the municipal area and along the Ping River.
The program includes Lanna lantern competitions, cultural performances, processions, light decorations and traditional ceremonies.
Official source: Chiang Mai PRD – Yi Peng 2026.
Can You Still Release Sky Lanterns in Chiang Mai?
Yes, but sky lantern releases are strictly regulated. In 2026, Chiang Mai authorities permit khom loi on November 24 and 25 only, from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM, subject to designated areas and official safety regulations.
You should therefore not simply buy a lantern and release it anywhere in the city. Restrictions are in place to reduce fire risks and protect air traffic.
Official source: Chiang Mai PRD – Yi Peng 2026 lantern regulations.
Paid Mass Lantern Release Events
The famous images showing thousands of lanterns rising simultaneously into the night sky now mostly come from organized private events outside central Chiang Mai.
The Chiang Mai CAD Yi Peng Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival is scheduled for November 24 and 25, 2026. Current ticket prices range from 4,900 to 15,900 THB depending on the category.
These events attract large numbers of visitors, so advance booking is strongly recommended if you want to attend a mass lantern release.
Loi Krathong vs. Yi Peng: What Is the Difference?
The two festivals are often confused, but Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are different traditions.
Loi Krathong centers on small decorated rafts that are floated on the water. Yi Peng is a northern Thai tradition particularly associated with Chiang Mai. It features Lanna lanterns and, when permitted, sky lanterns known as khom loi.
In Chiang Mai, the two celebrations take place at the same time, which explains why visitors often treat them as a single festival.
| Aspect | Loi Krathong | Yi Peng |
|---|---|---|
| Ritual | Floating krathongs on the water | Lanna lanterns and regulated sky lantern releases |
| Main area | Across Thailand | Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai |
| 2026 date | November 24 | Chiang Mai municipal festival from November 23 to 25 |
| Symbolism | Gratitude, forgiveness and renewal | Light, merit, wishes and Lanna tradition |
| Access | Many public celebrations | Municipal activities and paid private events |
How to Take Part in Loi Krathong
Taking part in Loi Krathong is relatively simple. On the evening of the festival, people gather near rivers, canals, lakes and other authorized locations to float their krathongs.
Depending on the city, festivities may also include processions, Nang Nopphamat contests, traditional dance performances, concerts, markets and cultural activities.
Making or Buying a Krathong
A traditional krathong is usually made from a section of banana tree trunk decorated with folded banana leaves, fresh flowers, a candle and sometimes incense sticks.
In tourist areas, a small street-sold krathong often costs around 50 to 200 THB, depending on its size, decoration and location. This price range is only an estimate.
Many hotels, schools and local communities also organize workshops where visitors can make their own krathong.
The Krathong Floating Ritual
There is no single mandatory way to participate, but the ritual generally follows a few simple steps:
- optionally place a symbolic offering or a small coin inside the krathong;
- light the candle and, where permitted, the incense;
- make a wish or take a moment for reflection;
- gently place the krathong on the water from an authorized and safe location.
Choosing a More Eco-Friendly Krathong
Authorities encourage the use of natural and biodegradable materials, such as banana trunk and banana leaves. Avoid Styrofoam, staples, nails and other materials that are difficult to remove from waterways.
Contrary to a common belief, a bread krathong is not always an environmentally friendly option. In Bangkok, authorities have specifically discouraged their use in park ponds and some enclosed bodies of water because uneaten bread decomposes, can reduce oxygen levels and may degrade water quality.
You can also reduce waste by sharing a single krathong as a couple, family or group.
Source: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration – recommendations on bread krathongs.
Tips for Enjoying Loi Krathong
Essential Tips
- Book in advance: accommodation in Chiang Mai and Sukhothai is in high demand during the festival.
- Expect crowds: allow extra time for transportation and, where possible, avoid driving through the busiest central areas.
- Check the local program: venues, schedules and restrictions vary from one city to another.
- Respect the cultural setting: near temples and during ceremonies, dress and behave respectfully.
- Do not release a lantern without authorization: regulations in Chiang Mai are strict and depend on location and time.
Safety Guidelines
- Fire safety: keep candles and incense away from clothing, hair and crowded areas.
- Be careful near water: use an official pier, dock or designated area rather than an unstable or slippery riverbank.
- Lanterns in Chiang Mai: in 2026, khom loi may be released on November 24 and 25 from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM, subject to designated zones and official regulations.
- Reduce waste: choose natural materials and do not leave packaging or accessories behind.
How Much Does Loi Krathong 2026 Cost?
- Krathong: around 50 to 200 THB for a street-sold model, as a general estimate.
- CAD Yi Peng 2026: current ticket prices range from 4,900 to 15,900 THB depending on the category.
- Sukhothai: tickets for the main light-and-sound show are currently listed at 500, 900 or 1,200 THB.
- Transportation: expect heavy demand for taxis, ride-hailing apps and tuk-tuks on festival nights.
- Accommodation: hotel rates can rise significantly in Chiang Mai and Sukhothai during the festival.
Sources: Thailand.go.th – Sukhothai 2026 ; CAD Yi Peng 2026 – current ticket prices.
Why Experience Loi Krathong in Thailand?
Loi Krathong remains one of Thailand’s most visually striking and symbolic traditions. Whether you choose the illuminated temples of Sukhothai, the atmosphere of Chiang Mai or the urban celebrations of Bangkok, the festival offers a special opportunity to experience a living Thai tradition.
Beyond the images of candles and lanterns, Loi Krathong is above all a time of gratitude, renewal and community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loi Krathong 2026
When Is Loi Krathong in 2026?
Loi Krathong will take place on Tuesday, November 24, 2026. The date changes each year because the festival falls on the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar.
When Is Yi Peng in Chiang Mai in 2026?
The municipal Yi Peng festival in Chiang Mai is scheduled from November 23 to 25, 2026. Regulated sky lantern releases are permitted on November 24 and 25 from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM in authorized areas and under official conditions.
Which City Is Best for Celebrating Loi Krathong?
It depends on the experience you want. Chiang Mai combines Loi Krathong with Yi Peng, Sukhothai offers the most striking historical setting, while Bangkok allows visitors to experience the festival without leaving the capital.
Can Tourists Take Part in Loi Krathong?
Yes. Visitors can buy or make a krathong and take part in celebrations in designated areas. Simply follow local regulations, respect the cultural nature of the ritual and observe environmental guidelines.
What Is a Traditional Krathong Made Of?
A traditional krathong is usually made from a slice of banana tree trunk, banana leaves, flowers, a candle and sometimes incense sticks.
What Is the Difference Between Loi Krathong and Yi Peng?
Loi Krathong mainly involves floating decorated rafts on the water. Yi Peng is a Lanna tradition from northern Thailand associated with lanterns and illuminations. The two festivals coincide in Chiang Mai, but they are not the same celebration.
