There’s always something happening in Chiang Mai, but there are two big annual festivals. Loi Krathong, around the full moon in November, and Songkran, always around April 15th.

During Loi Krathong, small boats called Krathongs are set afloat on the river, decorated with flowers and a candle, wishing health, happiness, and prosperity for your loved ones.

Loi Krathong is also known as the ‘Lantern Festival,’ but in recent years you need to go to designated spots well outside the city for that. The police strictly enforce restrictions on releasing lanterns, and the few that do make it into the sky don’t create the magical atmosphere seen in photos. The best place to experience this is at Doi Saket Lakes. Entrance is free, but transportation can be tricky. During peak season, red taxis will try to make as many trips as possible to Doi Saket, and a seat may cost much more than usual. It’s best to book a whole taxi a few days in advance—or just rent a motorbike.

Tickets are also sold for ‘the’ Lantern Festival by commercial providers charging premium prices; 200 euros or more is common. These usually include transport and a moment when thousands of lanterns are released together.

Keep in mind that hotels in Chiang Mai book up well in advance, especially around November 5th and 6th, 2025, and prices are higher than the rest of the high season.