Amazing! Tens of thousands of colorful lanterns hang in the air!
The Lantern Festival is a grand traditional festival in the Lanna region of northern Thailand. It is part of the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals and attracts tourists from all over the world every year. The festival is usually held in November and originated from the Lanna culture of "Yee Peng," which is closely related to local Buddhist beliefs. People make and hang lanterns to offer and pray to the Buddha, symbolizing the Buddha's light illuminating people's lives and bringing happiness and prosperity.
During the Lantern Festival, thousands of colorful lanterns are hung in temples and surrounding areas. These lanterns are mostly in the Lanna style, with exquisite shapes, including traditional round lanterns and various creative shapes. When night falls, tens of thousands of colorful lanterns are hung high in Wat Phra That Hariphunchai in Lamphun, Thailand, forming a sea of lights, which is very impressive!
During the Lantern Festival, visitors can choose lanterns on-site (99 THB per lantern), write their wishes on the lanterns, and hang them in designated areas of the temple to pray for their wishes to come true. (ps: No tickets are required on-site)
The market during the Lantern Festival is also bustling. The market is full of various handicrafts, such as exquisite wood carvings, fabrics, pottery, metal ornaments, and various delicious Thai snacks, such as Tom Yum soup, Thai spring rolls, mango sticky rice, etc. Visitors can taste local delicacies, buy special souvenirs, and experience authentic Thai culture at the market.
In general, the Lantern Festival in Thailand is a comprehensive festival that combines prayer, sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experience. It is an event not to be missed for both locals and tourists! If you miss it this year, you can only go again next year!