I always dreamed of seeing the lantenrs going up to the skyes like we see in movies and even animations, like Tangled. In 2018 I had the opportunity to make it come true...
It is important to know that this festival has different dates, depending on the year, so in case you want to participate of this experience, make sure to check out the correct dates, that is not going to be the same as the year before.
Yi Peng usually takes place during 2 days of November, when there is a full moon, during the 12° month of the thai calendar.
To watch the show the best way possible, we decided to do it from Chiang Mai, a small town up north. This city is the place where the festival is most celebrated and you can see it from anywhere across the town.
The celebrations are huge and vary acording to the place they take place. On the first night, we decided to stay at the Anantara Hotel, that hosted tipical dances, drum players and more. The dinner was a buffet with beverege as an extra. By the end, all families were able to light lanterns up in a beautiful stary night.
The night was even more amazing than what I expected, bringing tons of joy and emotions for being part of something so unique, special and beautiful.
The second night, we went to Mae Jo University, that is about 18 miles from Chiang Mai. It is known for being the place where anually thousands of lanterns light up the sky. There is also hosted a big celebration, with typical food, local dances and a cerimony before the lighting of the lanterns. They take the skyes among fireworks, causing an inexplicable feeling.
Both events are paid for and it is reccommended that you book it months prior, because they have limited spots and tend to be booked quickly.
Particularly, I thought both were really worth it and I wouldn't change the schedule in anything.
Here is an interesting fact that I didn't know about. At the same time that happens Yi Peng, also happens Loi Khratong, loi means float and krathong are little boats or baskets, therefor, floating baskets. These baskets are usually made out of banana tree leafs and flowers (although this composition may change depending on the style of who assembles it) and incense and candles and are put in the river so it's waters take it away.
There are people that claim that if you make a wish whilst you place the khratong in the water, it will come true.
The waters light up with these delicate baskets and it's reflections, creating yet another beauty to be apreciated duting the festival.
Anantara Hotel and Mae Jo University provided us with the lanterns and baskets, for no additional cost.
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