Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. As a result, the city offers a year-round schedule of vibrant festivals and events that capture the spirit of its rich heritage, artistry, and modern vitality.
Looking for traditional spiritual celebrations and Festivals? Events celebrating the creative arts, live music and local artisans are Chiang Mai’s specialty! Jazz lovers and foodies be warned — you will love this town!
Planning your trip around these annual events will definitely give you a deeper, more meaningful experience of the city. Plus, they’re fun!
Here’s your guide to the best annual events in Chiang Mai to consider for your next visit. See you soon!
Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November)
Arguably the most iconic festival in Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival illuminates the night skies as thousands of paper lanterns are released, creating a stunning visual display. This spiritual celebration, traditionally observed to honor Buddha, draws visitors from around the globe. The lanterns symbolize the release of misfortune and a fresh start, turning the event into a magical experience that embodies hope and renewal.
Best Spots: Tha Pae Gate, Ping River, and Mae Jo University
Why You Should Go: The sight of thousands of glowing lanterns floating into the sky is both serene and unforgettable, offering a deep connection to Chiang Mai’s spiritual roots.
Traveler Quote: “The lanterns lighting up the night sky felt almost otherworldly. It’s a spiritual experience like no other.” — Reddit traveler review
More Info: Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
Songkran Festival (April)
Known as the Thai New Year, the Songkran Festival is one of the most joyful and fun celebrations in Chiang Mai. For several days, the streets transform into a giant water fight, where locals and tourists splash each other with water as part of a cleansing ritual for the new year. Apart from the water celebrations, you’ll also witness processions, traditional ceremonies, and offerings at temples.
Best Spots: Old City Moat, Tha Pae Gate
Why You Should Go: The water fights are legendary, and Chiang Mai is known for having one of the best Songkran celebrations in Thailand.
Traveler Quote: “Songkran in Chiang Mai is wild, but it’s also a great way to connect with the culture through fun and tradition.” — TripAdvisor review
More Info: Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February)
Held annually in early February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival showcases the region’s vibrant floral beauty. Elaborate floats covered in orchids, chrysanthemums, and other colorful blooms parade through the city, while Suan Buak Haad Park becomes a hub of flower displays, competitions, and live music. This festival highlights Chiang Mai’s reputation as the “Rose of the North.”
Best Spots: Suan Buak Haad Park, Parade Route along Charoen Muang Road
Why You Should Go: To witness stunning floral artistry that celebrates the natural beauty and horticultural heritage of the region.
Traveler Quote: “The whole city comes alive with color. It’s like walking through a garden of wonders.” — Instagram post by a traveler
More Info: Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Loy Krathong (November)
Celebrated alongside Yi Peng, Loy Krathong involves the release of floating krathongs (banana leaf rafts) into rivers and lakes to honor the water goddess and seek forgiveness for misdeeds. The combination of floating krathongs and lanterns creates a mesmerizing and harmonious celebration of light and water.
Best Spots: Ping River, Huay Tung Tao Lake
Why You Should Go: The dual celebrations of lanterns and krathongs offer a unique blend of beauty and tradition.
Traveler Quote: “Watching the krathongs float down the river while lanterns lit up the sky—it was absolutely magical.” — Traveler review on Reddit
More Info: Loy Krathong Festival in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Jazz Festival (December)
Chiang Mai’s Street Jazz Festival attracts both local and international jazz artists for several days of live performances. This event features open-air concerts, impromptu jam sessions, and the opportunity to enjoy jazz in scenic settings around the city.
Best Spots: Open-air venues across the city, local jazz clubs
Why You Should Go: For music lovers, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy world-class jazz performances in a laid-back atmosphere.
Traveler Quote: “The jazz festival was an unexpected highlight of my trip. Amazing music in such a relaxed, beautiful setting.” — Reddit review
More Info: Chiang Mai Jazz Festival
6. Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (January)
The Bo Sang Umbrella Festival celebrates the famous hand-painted umbrellas of the Bo Sang village. The streets are adorned with colorful umbrellas, and visitors can watch artisans create these delicate works of art. The festival also features cultural performances, live music, and plenty of local handicrafts for sale.
Best Spots: Bo Sang Village
Why You Should Go: To experience traditional Lanna craftsmanship and immerse yourself in the art and culture of the region.
Traveler Quote: “Bo Sang is a festival like no other. It’s so colorful, and watching the artisans at work is fascinating.” — Facebook traveler review
More Info: Bo Sang Umbrella Festival
7. Inthakin Festival (May/June)
The Inthakin Festival, also known as the Festival of the City Pillar, is a deeply spiritual celebration held at Wat Chedi Luang. Locals make offerings and pray for the city’s protection and blessings. The festival highlights Chiang Mai’s cultural and religious traditions.
Best Spots: Wat Chedi Luang
Why You Should Go: For a deeper connection to Chiang Mai’s spiritual roots, away from the more touristy festivals.
Traveler Quote: “This festival felt very local and spiritual—it was an intimate look into Chiang Mai’s traditional beliefs.” — Traveler review on TripAdvisor
More Info: Inthakin Festival
8. Royal Project Fair (December)
The Royal Project Fair showcases the sustainable agricultural work initiated by the Royal Project, which helps develop highland farming communities. Visitors can sample organic produce, purchase artisanal goods, and learn about sustainable farming.
Best Spots: Royal Project headquarters, Chiang Mai University
Why You Should Go: To support sustainability initiatives and learn about local farming innovations.
Traveler Quote: “The Royal Project Fair was eye-opening. The quality of the produce and the sustainability message really resonated with me.” — Instagram traveler
More Info: Royal Project Foundation
9. Chiang Mai Design Week (December)
Chiang Mai Design Week celebrates creativity and craftsmanship, bringing together designers and artisans to showcase innovative work in fields like architecture, fashion, and sustainable design. The event includes exhibitions, workshops, and markets.
Best Spots: Old City, Nimmanhaemin, One Nimman
Why You Should Go: To explore Chiang Mai’s growing reputation as a hub for creative and sustainable design.
Traveler Quote: “Chiang Mai Design Week had everything from cutting-edge design to hands-on workshops. It’s the perfect place to see the future of Thai creativity.” — Facebook event review
More Info: Chiang Mai Design Week
10. Doi Suthep Pilgrimage (May/June)
On the night before Visakha Bucha Day, thousands of pilgrims hike the 11-kilometer path to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most revered temple. The candlelit pilgrimage is both a physical challenge and a spiritual journey, culminating in prayers at the temple.
Best Spots: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Why You Should Go: For a spiritual experience that combines tradition with stunning views of Chiang Mai at the summit.
Traveler Quote: “The pilgrimage was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Reaching the temple after the hike felt incredibly rewarding.” — Reddit review
More Info: Doi Suthep Pilgrimage
Plan Your Visit Around Chiang Mai’s Cultural Calendar
If you’re seeking spiritual depth, artistic inspiration, or just an unforgettable festival experience, Chiang Mai’s annual events offer a rich tapestry of traditions, creativity, and celebrations. By planning your trip around one of these events, you’ll immerse yourself in the true essence of this vibrant city. See you soon!
