YEE PENG - THE LANTERN FESTIVAL
In
Northern Thailand the Loy Krathong festival which is also known as Yee Peng is particularly spectacular. It is celebrated for two nights under the full moon. The celebrations in & around Chiang Mai include the release of thousands of “Khom Loys” (paper hot air floating lanterns) into the night sky all over the city.
People thought that lanterns could only be lit during Buddhist holidays or ceremonies. But actually, lanterns can be lit every evening or night. These lanterns can be hung on gates, fences, doors, windows, or the roof, or any place an individual wants to adorn with these delightful creations. There have been four different purposes for the northern Thais to hang lanterns. They are for beauty, to pay respect to Buddha images, to make one's home or mansion brighter and for propitious purposes.
The celebrations of Yee Peng Festival (the festival of the lanterns) joined the release of thousands of “Khom Loys” (paper hot air floating lanterns) into the night sky all over the city.