It’s no surprise that Chiang Mai has been chosen by travellers as one of the Top 5 World’s Best Cities for 2017 – an excellent reason to plan a festive holiday to this magical part of the world with Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. As the mercury dips and the weather takes a pleasant turn, the “cultural seat of Siam” brims with excitement. The Festival of Lights in November brings spirited celebrations and fairy-tale views, while the annual Arts & Crafts Fair draws together some of the region’s finest artists.
The Festival of Lights
In Northern Thailand, the beginning of November marks the dual celebration of Loy Krathong (the Thai festival of water lanterns) and Yi Ping (the Northern Thai festival of sky lanterns). As a way to bid adieu to past misfortunes and welcome new blessings, hundreds of glowing lanterns are released into the river as well as the sky, illuminating both the heavens and the earth. Along with this spectacular sight, Chiang Mai enjoys three full days of local revelry – sound and light shows, boat races, vibrant parades, and traditional games.
Four Seasons guests can experience the Festival of Lights in unique style with a special package. Learn to handcraft festive lanterns at the Resort, then take a limousine ride into Chiang Mai town to join the lively celebrations, including the grand Krathong Parade. Head to the best vantage point to watch the glimmering lights rising in the sky and floating down the river, and release lanterns for good fortune. The package also includes a Lanna-style dinner and intimate celebrations within the lush premises of the Resort.
The Artistic Side of Chiang Mai
The “Rose of the North” is in the midst of one of the most exciting art movements in the world right now, with an inspiring mix of heritage and innovation. With bespoke art experiences from Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, art aficionados can discover the best of the region’s vibrant creative culture: join an award-winning watercolourist for a painting class, peek behind the scenes of a pottery studio, enjoy a private tour of the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, or go gallery hopping deep into the city’s flourishing art scene.
The Arts & Crafts Fair
In the first week of December, Chiang Mai welcomes the Nimmanhaemin Arts & Crafts Fair, a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. During the three-day festival, some of the Northern Thailand’s most talented artists, designers and craftspeople come together to share their creations, ranging from ethnic woven textiles and hill-tribe batik to ceramic sculptures and wood-carved accessories.
Held in the charming Nimmenhaemin neighbourhood, the fair also features live music performances, local street food and handmade souvenirs – a confluence that is sure to delight travellers who love immersing in new cultures. The relaxed, friendly ambience makes it possible to engage with fellow art enthusiasts from around the world. With a personal guide revealing hidden treasures along the way, Four Seasons guests will enjoy an enviable level of access into Chiang Mai’s multi-layered, richly textured arts and crafts landscape.
