Yi Peng Lantern Festival [English]

Yi Peng
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In Chiang Mai the celebration is known as Yi Peng (the full moon of the second month), as the twelfth month in the Thai Lunar Calendar corresponds to the second month in the traditional calendar of the old northern Lanna kingdom. The festival features beautifully illuminated lanterns, which are either carried, displayed in houses and temples, and even launched into the night sky.

History Annals in the Yonok and Chamadevi  Kingdon, it is recorded that  one time there was cholera in the region Haripunjaya. It make many burgers evacuate in Hongsawadee (Myanmar) for 6 years to go back to the old town. When this time that is the day of evacuation came. We have to make sacrifices to put pots and candles floating on the water to relatives who have passed away so-called phantom float or fly lantern.

Sky Lanterns It is believed that launching  the lantern can send a person’s bad luck and misfortune away into the sky, especially if it disappears from view before the fire goes out. Often people will say a short prayer before launching the balloon. Sometimes they will also place their address at the balloon. Anyone who later finds the balloon can then claim money from the sender. In this way the good fortune is shared.

People in Northern Thailand also venerate Pra Ged Kaew Ju La Manee (Crystal Chedi in which the Buddha’s hair is kept), and worship this by sending air ballooned lantern into the sky. The Chiang Mai area has been the scene of massed balloon launches.