Loi Krathong and Yi Peng in Bangkok: Where to Celebrate

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng in Bangkok: Where to Celebrate Updated: March 27, 2026

Bangkok glows each November when Thailand marks Loy Krathong, the “festival of lights” on water. On the same full moon up north, Chiang Mai celebrates Yi Peng with sky lanterns. In Bangkok, you’ll find beautiful river and park ceremonies for Loy Krathong, plus Lanna-inspired lantern displays—but releasing sky lanterns is generally prohibited within the capital for safety and aviation reasons.

When it happens in 2026

• Timing: The festivals fall on the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month, typically mid–late November. Exact dates and city programming are confirmed a few weeks ahead.
• How to verify: Check the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announcements, plus venue pages (ICONSIAM, Asiatique, major parks and hotels).

Loy Krathong vs. Yi Peng at a glance

• Loy Krathong (Bangkok): Float small decorated “krathong” on lakes, rivers, and canals to give thanks to the water and release misfortune.
• Yi Peng (Northern Thailand): Release paper sky lanterns (khom loi). In Bangkok, sky lantern releases are typically not allowed; enjoy lantern displays and workshops instead, or travel north for permitted mass releases.

Top places to celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok

Chao Phraya River hotspots

• ICONSIAM River Park (Charoen Nakhon): Cultural performances, craft booths, and krathong stations with picture-perfect views toward Wat Arun. Expect very large crowds; arrive early.
• Asiatique The Riverfront (Charoen Krung): Boardwalk ambience, food stalls, stage shows, and krathong floating at the pier. Frequent boat shuttles from Sathorn/Central Pier.
• Santi Chai Prakan Park and Chao Phraya Tourist Boat N13 Phra Arthit Pier: A classic Old Bangkok setting near Khao San Road with calmer river vibes and views of Rama VIII Bridge.
• Tha Maharaj and Tha Tien/Wat Pho piers: Riverside promenades with eateries, temple backdrops, and easy access to Old Town.
• Yodpiman River Walk (Pak Khlong Talat/Flower Market): Festive riverside dining with easy krathong access.

Major parks with lakes (family-friendly)

• Lumphini Park (Silom): Spacious lakes and well-managed crowd flow; popular with families. Park hours may extend on festival night—verify closer to the date.
• Benjakitti Forest Park (Queen Sirikit National Convention Center): Wide boardwalks, skyline reflections, and multiple viewpoints.
• Benjasiri Park (Phrom Phong): Small, lively neighborhood option near Sukhumvit dining.
• Rama IX Park/Suan Luang (eastern Bangkok): Expansive grounds and a large lake; some years feature cultural fairs. A modest entry fee may apply.

Canals and neighborhood celebrations

• Designated khlongs: The city sometimes activates canals such as Khlong Ong Ang (near Chinatown) or Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem with performances and floating areas. Availability changes yearly—check BMA advisories and local signage.

Hotels and river cruises (book ahead)

• Dinner cruises: Options like Chao Phraya Princess, Saffron Cruise, Loy Nava, and Manohra showcase the lit-up river while you float a krathong from the boat or at a pier stop.
• Riverside hotels: Anantara Riverside, Mandarin Oriental, The Peninsula, Royal Orchid Sheraton, Four Seasons/Capella, and others typically host private pier ceremonies, cultural shows, and set dinners. Reservations sell out fast.

Yi Peng in Bangkok: what to expect

• Decorative lanterns, not sky releases: Look for Lanna-style installations, workshops (lantern-making, tung flags), and photo spots at malls, parks, and some temples.
• If you want to release sky lanterns: Plan a trip to Chiang Mai or select northern venues that run permitted mass releases within strict time windows. Book reputable, licensed events and follow all safety rules.

How to celebrate responsibly

• Choose eco-friendly krathongs: Banana trunk, banana leaves, flowers, or bread for fish. Avoid styrofoam, plastic glitter, metal pins, and batteries. Smaller is better.
• Share one krathong: Reduces waste without diminishing the spirit.
• Dispose thoughtfully: Keep packaging with you; use designated bins. Follow on-site staff instructions.

Timing, transport, and safety

• Best time: Arrive before sunset; most floating happens after moonrise and peaks around 7–9 pm. Shows can continue later at major venues.
• Getting there:
  • River: BTS Saphan Taksin to Sathorn/Central Pier for boats; Gold Line to ICONSIAM (Charoen Nakhon).
  • Old Town: MRT Sanam Chai for Tha Tien/Wat Pho and riverside promenades.
  • Parks: MRT Lumphini for Lumphini Park; BTS Phrom Phong for Benjasiri; MRT Queen Sirikit for Benjakitti.
• Avoid driving: Roads near the river and parks clog quickly; parking is limited.
• Crowd and water safety: Keep valuables secure, supervise children near the edge, and be careful lighting candles. Expect occasional boat wakes along the river.
• Weather: November is mostly dry but brief showers happen. Pack a light poncho and comfortable shoes.

Etiquette and cultural notes

• Dress modestly around temples; shoulders and knees covered is appreciated.
• Be respectful when photographing people and religious rites; avoid flash near monks.
• Do not step on krathongs or push through queues at floating points; wait your turn.

Suggested easy plans

• Riverfront classic: Arrive at ICONSIAM before dusk for shows, float a krathong at the pier, then take the cross-river ferry for night views of Wat Arun and dessert around Tha Tien.
• Park and skyline: Stroll Benjakitti’s boardwalks at sunset, float your krathong, then head to Sukhumvit for a late supper.
• Old Town tradition: Float at Santi Chai Prakan Park, wander Phra Athit’s cafes, and catch the glow of Rama VIII Bridge.

How to confirm final details

• Watch for official posts from BMA and TAT (websites and Facebook pages), plus announcements from ICONSIAM, Asiatique, major parks, hotels, and cruise operators. These channels publish the confirmed festival date, special shows, park hours, and any safety notices (such as temporary bans on fireworks or drones).

With the river shimmering, parks alive with families, and Lanna lanterns aglow across the city, Bangkok offers a magical, water-focused Loy Krathong—paired with tasteful nods to Yi Peng. Plan early, go green with your krathong, and let the city’s lights do the rest.