Chiang Mai CAD New Year Countdown Festival 2026/2027: FAQ & Essential Guide

To match your preferred view, we offer five ticket packages. All tiers include an all-you-can-eat Lanna buffet, traditional souvenirs, and round-trip transfers.

The seating is split into Ground Level (closer to the stage) and Elevated Platforms (better for panoramic sky views):

• Instant Delivery: Upon successful booking, an official e-ticket link containing a secure QR code will be sent to your registered email address in 24 hours.
• Easy Redemption: You do not need to print it. Simply present the digital QR code on your mobile device at our designated check-in counter on December 31st to redeem your physical entry wristband.

While minor adjustments may occur, the standard timeline for the December 31st celebration is as follows:

• 17:30 – 18:30: Arrival, check-in, and shuttle boarding at the designated city meeting point. Shuttles depart every 5 minutes (last backup shuttle leaves at 20:00).
• 18:30 – 19:30: Arrival at the CAD Cultural Center. Show your E-ticket to check in and redeem your physical hanging badge.
• 18:30 – 21:30: Dining area, games, and Lanna Ancient Market activities are fully open.
• 21:30 – 22:00: Gates open for the Pagoda Zone (Main Arena).
• 22:00 – 22:30: Live Lanna cultural performances and Orchestra shows.
• 23:30 – 23:59: New Year Countdown, Light & Sound show, and the Mass Sky Lantern Release.
• 00:00 – 00:30: The Grand Midnight Fireworks show.
• 00:30 Board return shuttles at the CAD assembly point to transfer back to the city.

** Note: The sequence of events may be adjusted or postponed appropriately on the night based on real-time conditions.

Yes, all official CAD tickets include complimentary round-trip shuttle service between central Chiang Mai and the festival venue.

• Current Reference Pickup Point: The primary pickup location is currently planned at Central Chiangmai Airport / Maya Lifestyle Shopping Mall (MAYA).
  ⚠️ Important Note: Please note that the exact pickup location is still being finalized. To ensure a smooth journey, always refer to the final pickup location stated directly on your official e-ticket.
• Getting to the Meeting Point: Ticket holders must arrange your own transportation (such as a taxi or Grab) to meet us at this designated pickup location. You can arrive anytime between 17:30 and 18:30.
• Shuttle Schedule: Shuttles leave continuously every 5 minutes between 17:30 and 18:30. The absolute last backup shuttle will depart at 20:00.

Return transfers will begin immediately after the midnight fireworks show finishes (from 00:30 onward).

When you arrive at the CAD assembly point to head back, you can choose from three drop-off destinations:

1. Night Bazaar area

2. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Mall

3. Central Chiang Mai Airport

💡 Important: Please make sure to select your preferred drop-off destination before boarding the vehicle at the venue's assembly point. Boarding priority and vehicle assignments are arranged based on your ticket class.

While private transport is permitted, we strongly advise utilizing our official shuttle service. The venue is located in the Mae On district, and traffic leading to the festival grounds becomes heavily congested on New Year's Eve. Official shuttles have dedicated priority lanes and designated drop-off/pick-up zones, ensuring a stress-free journey.

There is no strict dress code for the New Year event, and we want you to feel relaxed and ready to celebrate! However, since the festival incorporates traditional Lanna cultural elements, dressing respectfully (such as casual smart, or clothing that comfortably covers shoulders and knees) is always appreciated.

Insider Photo Tip: We highly recommend wearing white or light-colored clothing. Light fabrics beautifully catch and reflect the warm, golden glow of the rising sky lanterns, making your professional and personal photographs look absolutely spectacular against the night sky!

• Strictly Prohibited: Outside lanterns are strictly banned due to strict aviation safety regulations.
• 100% Eco-Friendly: All lanterns released inside the venue are provided officially by CAD. They are constructed entirely from biodegradable flame-retardant paper and bamboo frames.
• Authorized Release: The mass lantern release is strictly synchronized and authorized by local aviation authorities, ensuring a magical yet completely safe experience for everyone.

Yes, absolutely! The Chiang Mai CAD New Year Countdown Festival is a safe, organized, and memorable experience for families.

• Safe Environment: Unlike unregulated street celebrations, the CAD venue is a controlled, spacious environment with dedicated seating, professional security, and medically trained staff on-site.
• Child-Friendly Activities: Kids love exploring the Lanna Ancient Market, playing traditional games, and trying local treats in the dining area before the main shows begin.
• Pro-Tip for Families: Since the event concludes after midnight (around 00:30) and involves a mass release of lanterns and loud fireworks, we highly recommend bringing noise-canceling headphones/earmuffs for toddlers or infants to ensure they stay comfortable during the grand finale.

While both festivals offer the breathtaking sight of thousands of sky lanterns rising simultaneously, they have a few key differences:

• The Timing & Spirit: The November festival (Yee Peng) is a traditional, religious Buddhist holiday aligned with the full moon of the 12th lunar month, focused on making merit and spiritual cleansing. The December 31st festival is a festive, celebratory New Year’s Countdown designed specifically to ring in the global New Year.
• The Grand Finale: The New Year event features an exclusive Grand Midnight Fireworks Show immediately following the mass lantern release, combining the magic of traditional Lanna sky lanterns with modern, spectacular countdown fireworks that you won't see in November!