There is something universally captivating about a single light flickering in the darkness. It draws us in, sparking a sense of wonder and hope. But imagine not just one light, but thousands — floating on a river, strung across ancient alleyways, drifting skyward, or illuminating tranquil lakes.

This is the magic that awaits across Southeast Asia.

While lantern festivals have deep roots throughout Asia, dating back to the Han Dynasty as military signals, they have evolved into celebrations of peace, forgiveness, and remembrance — each nation adding its own cultural brilliance. This transformation is particularly enchanting in the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Hội An and during the vivid celebrations in northern Thailand.

If you are searching for a journey that touches the soul, Southeast Asia’s lantern festivals offer a window into the heart of local culture and tradition.

A City Transformed by Light: Hội An’s Full Moon Lantern Festival

On the 14th day of each lunar month, modern life pauses in Hội An, Vietnam. As the sun sets, the electric lights of homes and businesses are switched off. In their place, the soft, warm glow of thousands of silk lanterns takes over.

The streets, usually buzzing with the energy of daily commerce, become a river of flickering light. Red lanterns — symbolizing warmth, happiness, and good fortune — hang from wooden balconies and stretch across narrow alleyways. The atmosphere shifts from bustling to serene, inviting you to slow down and breathe in the moment.

It feels less like a festival and more like stepping back in time. The historic architecture of the Old Town, preserved for centuries, looks its most beautiful under the gentle illumination of candlelight.

The beauty of the Full Moon Lantern Festival is undeniable, but its true power lies in its purpose. In Buddhist tradition, the full moon is a sacred time for meditation, reflection, and honouring ancestors. Travellers and locals gather along the banks of the Thu Bồn River, lighting paper lanterns for health, love, or good fortune and setting their wishes afloat on the water. Watching your lantern join thousands of others on the shimmering river is a moment you will never forget.

The Mesmerizing Lantern Festivals of Thailand

Loi Krathong: A Festival of Light and Letting Go

While Vietnam’s rivers blaze with candlelit lanterns, Thailand’s waters come alive during the magical Loi Krathong festival. Every November, across the country, people craft delicate krathong — intricate baskets woven from banana leaves, adorned with flowers, incense, and candles. In 2026, the Loi Krathong lantern festival will be on November 25 (dates may vary by region).

As night falls on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, families and friends gather beside rivers, lakes, and canals. One by one, the krathong are lit and set gently afloat, drifting away on the current. This act is a gesture of letting go — releasing worries and paying gratitude to the water goddess. Tucked into each floating basket are prayers and hopes for the year to come.

Some of the most spectacular displays are found in Sukhothai, where ancient ruins become the backdrop for illuminated processions and vibrant cultural performances.

Yi Peng: Lanterns Rising Toward the Sky

In northern Thailand, particularly Chiang Mai, the Loi Krathong festival intertwines with Yi Peng — a dazzling event where thousands of rice paper lanterns, khom loy, are released into the night sky. As the full moon rises, participants write wishes and prayers on each lantern, light it, and watch it drift upward, carrying their hopes with it. This year, the Yi Peng lantern festival will be on November 25.

The sight is mesmerizing. Picture a sea of glowing orbs floating skyward, symbolizing the release of past misfortune and the embrace of new blessings. The festival is steeped in Buddhist symbolism and offers a moving, spiritual experience for all who take part.

[h2] Experience a Lantern Festival with Collette Want to witness the glow for yourself? Certain departures of our Kingdoms of Southeast Asia tour include Hội An’s Full Moon Lantern Festival. Experience Loi Krathong in Sukhothai on a select departure of our Wonders of Thailand tour.

Let Your Curiosity Lead You to Southeast Asia

Vietnam and Thailand are destinations that reward the curious. From Vietnam’s lantern-lit streets and river rituals to Thailand’s floating baskets and lantern-filled skies, you’ll find a region aglow with tradition. It is a reminder that travel isn’t just about the places we go, but the light we find when we get there.

Collette offers expertly designed tours that bring you to the heart of these stunning traditions. Let us show you the best of Southeast Asia.