Chiang Mai Lantern Festival Guide | A Spectacle of Thousands of Lanterns
Around November each year, Chiang Mai, Thailand, hosts a magical festival known as the "Yi Peng Festival." Among the various versions of the festival, I attended the most famous, grand, and breathtaking one—the CAD Lantern Festival. Honestly, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The sight of thousands of lanterns being released simultaneously is so stunning that words fail to describe it—it’s like a painting come to life. However, behind the romance lies some chaos and challenges. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience and some tips to help you navigate the festival more smoothly in the future!
1. Thousands of participants, an awe-inspiring spectacle! ❤️
The CAD Lantern Festival is a ticketed event. You’ll take a shuttle from Chiang Mai city center to the venue, and the entire event is quite well-organized. The crowd is massive, with tourists and foreigners everywhere—it truly feels like the whole city has gathered here! Once inside, you’ll see the grassy field filled with people dressed in white or traditional attire, setting up tripods and lanterns. The atmosphere is joyful and harmonious.
2. Shuttle arrangements are chaotic, no queue system 😵💫
Honestly, the only downside was the chaotic shuttle arrangements. While there are designated pickup points, don’t expect orderly queues like at an airport. It’s a free-for-all when the shuttle arrives—you’ll need quick reflexes to secure a spot! We waited in line but got cut off by others. Luckily, we managed to get on eventually, but the process was quite frustrating.
🔸Tips: Arrive early for the shuttle! We got there around 6 PM, but if you can arrive by 3:30 PM, it’ll be less rushed and more comfortable.
3. Early entry is advantageous—time to eat and prepare
Once inside the venue, you’ll find long tables for photo ops, traditional stalls, and free food offerings like Thai desserts, fried snacks, vegetarian dishes, and drinks. Arriving early allows you to pick a good spot, enjoy the food, take photos, and set up your tripod without feeling rushed.
🎥 A tripod is essential! To capture beautiful videos or time-lapse shots of the lantern release, set up your position early to avoid last-minute scrambling.
4. Lantern release officially starts around 8 PM
Around 8 PM, the organizers will announce the start of the event, leading everyone in meditation, blessings, and a countdown. The scene is solemn yet heartwarming. Then, everyone lifts their lanterns, waiting for the perfect moment to release them.
5. Lantern release tips: teamwork, stability, and patience
Releasing a lantern isn’t as simple as just letting go—it requires technique.
🟡 First, teamwork is key: One person holds the top of the lantern while the other lights the wax ring at the bottom.
🟡 After lighting, don’t rush to release! Wait at least 2–3 minutes until the lantern gains enough buoyancy to lift itself.
🟡 Most importantly: Ensure the lantern ascends vertically for safety. If released too soon, it may tilt or fall, posing a hazard.
Staff members patrol the area to address any issues or accidents promptly. 👍
6. Fireworks are visible from select spots
After the first round of lantern releases, fireworks begin. However, not all areas offer a clear view. We were lucky to be seated facing the fireworks, capturing stunning photos of lanterns and fireworks together. ❤️
7. The simultaneous release of thousands of lanterns is deeply moving
The most breathtaking moment is when thousands of people release their lanterns together, counting down "3, 2, 1." As the lanterns ascend into the night sky, the white dots gradually form a galaxy-like scene. The entire venue falls silent, with only whispers of "Wow…" and "So beautiful…" echoing. You’ll feel a sense of shared hope, warmth, peace, and love.
For some reason, watching the lanterns rise brought tears to my eyes—it was truly emotional.
8. Post-event traffic congestion is inevitable
After the event, thousands of people leave simultaneously, causing significant traffic jams. Waiting for a shuttle can take over an hour, and the queue system remains unclear.
🔴 Important reminder: Use the restroom before leaving! With the crowd and traffic, there’s no chance to stop for a bathroom break.
✅ Summary of tips:
1. Depart early for the shuttle (recommended by 3:30 PM)
2. Bring a tripod and set up your photo spot in advance
3. Prepare your phone/camera/spare batteries
4. Be patient when releasing the lantern—wait for it to lift on its own
5. Use the restroom before leaving the venue
In conclusion, Chiang Mai’s CAD Lantern Festival is magical, emotional, and worth experiencing! It’s not just an event but a ritual, an emotional release, and a unique experience. You’ll feel hope, warmth, peace, and love. If you ask me whether it’s worth traveling to Chiang Mai for this, my answer is: absolutely! Just be prepared and manage your expectations (don’t expect everything to be perfectly organized), and you’ll truly enjoy the journey and every moment.
This year, bring along someone you want to share your wishes with and release a lantern together 🎈✨