Chiang Mai CAD New Year Countdown: Dec. 30–31, 2024

If you're still considering where to spend New Year's Eve in Southeast Asia at the end of 2024, then go to Chiang Mai.

A magnificent New Year countdown celebration will take place on December 30th and 31st, 2024.

During this unforgettable event, you'll join over 4,000 people in ringing in the new year with a grand Thai-style celebration, highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display and a breathtaking sky lantern release. If you missed the Yi Peng Festival, this is your rare chance to experience the magic of releasing sky lanterns into the night sky—an awe-inspiring moment you won't want to miss.

Book your tickets right now to usher in the upcoming year with your loved ones in the most unique way!

Tickets

Tickets are now on sale for both December 30th and 31st, offering three ticket types: VIP, Premium, and Elite, each with different prices and benefits.

Ticket Prices:

*Important Information Before Booking:

1. Regarding Dates: Tickets for December 30th are more affordable with the same event content, while tickets for December 31st are priced higher due to the New Year's Eve, potentially offering a more celebratory atmosphere.
2. Differences Among Ticket Types:
   • Seating Areas: Seating for performances varies by ticket type, with Elite ticket holders closest to the stage, followed by Premium and then VIP ticket holders.
   • Dining Areas: Each ticket type grants access to different dining areas, with the Elite ticket offering the finest dining experience. 
   • Transportation: Elite tickets provide Luxury Car Model Hyundai H-1 (Exclusive pick-up at the hotel, available only on December 31st), while VIP and Premium tickets offer VIP Van Service (specific model unspecified).
   • Note: Only Elite tickets for December 31st include hotel pick-up service. On December 30th, all ticket types offer shuttle transfer service, with pick-up at Polytech-Lanna.
3. Children's Admission: Children under 8 years old enter free; 8-year-olds and above are charged the same as adults. You can buy a ticket for your child under 8 if you would like her or him to enjoy the same provision.

*Cancellation policy

• 30+ days before: cancellations fully refunded
• 0–29 days before: no refunds (canceled festival revenue goes to charity)
• No ticket name/date changes
• No lost ticket refunds/compensation

When and Where

Dates: Monday, December 30th and Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 from 7:30pm until midnight

Venue: *CAD Land Wonderland of Lanna in Klang subdistrict, Mae On district, Chiang Mai

*CAD is short for Chiang Mai Arts and Design, who also host the CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival nearby each year.

What to Expect

1. Experience the release of sky lanterns. 

You'll be amazed by the sight of thousands of lanterns filling the sky. Take part in this magical tradition by lighting a lantern, making a wish, and watching it ascend into the night sky, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

2. Watch a grand international fireworks display.

It will be the largest and longest international fireworks display in the north of Thailand, with more than 4,000 fireworks set off from the lakeside. These are grouped into five sets, each of which lasts for 15 minutes, covering a total lakeside span of 400 meters. This activity is presented as "Light of love, light up the sky, light up my life".

3. Watch a grand and spectacular show.

You will watch 'Impression of the Glory of Lanna', the first outdoor light and sound show highlighting stories of the Lanna way of life in Chiang Mai. It features 200+ performers showcasing Lanna culture, traditions, and local way of life. Enjoy local music, the Lanna Orchestra, folk artists, and a fun temple event.

4. Enjoy the great Lanna traditional drumming performance.

Watch a traditional drumming performance (사물놀이, Samulnori) by Korean artists, which retains the Lanna-culture theme and backdrop.

5. Join in with lighting phang prathip.

You could join in with lighting 5,000 phang prathip (ceremonial cup lamps), which are associated with a belief in worshipping Buddha, having a light to guide your life, and the hope of a life that shines brightly. This will enhance the auspiciousness of celebrating the new year in 2025.

6. Enjoy authentic Lanna Thai food, snacks, desserts, and beverages.

There will be a 'Veggies' food corner for vegetarians.

7. Participate in a Lanna market and experience traditional folk art and performances.

You would enjoy ancient sword dances, ancient swings of the Hmong tribes, etc.

Timeline (Dec. 30 and 31, 2024)

17:30–18:00: Get picked up at Payap University in Chiang Mai.

18:30–19:30: Arrive and see some Lanna traditional folk art and cultural activities.

19:30–20:30: Enjoy authentic Lanna Thai food, snacks, desserts and beverages.

20:30–21:30: Enjoy the concert "Reflecting the Happiness of the Past".

21:30–22:00: Enter the ritual space in front of the grand pagoda by the lake to prepare for the ancient Lanna show.

22:00–23:40: Enjoy the show "Impression of the Glory of Lanna".

23:40–23:50: Join in with the praying and make some wishes.

24:00: Witness a spectacular international fireworks display and release sky lanterns. 

A Few Things You Need to Know

• Firecrackers, sky lanterns, weapons, gambling equipment, and illegal objects, including alcoholic beverages, are prohibited.
• Participants are kindly requested to dress in Lanna Thai attire or respectful clothing.
• Please participate in religious activities with respect and peace for the sanctity of the ceremonies.