Chiang Mai is famous for its festivals, including Songkran (Thai New Year), Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), and Chiang Mai Flower Festival. During my first visit, I was lucky to see the city as a floral paradise.
Whether you’re visiting Chiang Mai after exploring Bangkok or Phuket and you happen to be in the city during this time, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to this renowned flower festival.
Plus, I’ll share the best street food spots that you can visit after the festival!
When Is the Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025?
Chiang Mai Flower Festival is an annual event every February. Traditionally, it is held on the first weekend of the month to celebrate the end of the cold season.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025 will be held at Nong Buak Haad Public Park from January 31 (Friday) to February 2 (Monday), 2025. The flower float parade takes place on February 1 (Saturday).
What is the Chiang Mai Flower Festival?
The festival fills the gardens of Chiang Mai with vibrant flowers, with two highlights – an extensive parade and the crowning of Miss Chiang Mai.
The traffic around the public park of Suan Buak Haad is closed to give way to the festival.
This is the time of the year when the winter season ends, and there is full bloom of tulips and orchids. Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025 also marks the beginning of the summer season.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival History
Chiang Mai, known as the “rose of the north” in Thailand, is celebrated for its natural beauty. Its valleys and hills provide a habitat for many tropical flowers, which bloom in January and February.
As soon as you step into Chiang Mai, especially in Doi Inthanon or during this flower festival, you’ll understand why.
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival has been held since 1977 and features flower floats, beauty pageants, cultural performances, and flower-arranging competitions.
Why is Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025 Celebrated?
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is a celebration of the natural beauty of northern Thailand.
It honors the farmers who cultivate the diverse array of flowers and plants thriving in the region’s fertile soil and favorable climate. It is a joyful appreciation of life, the importance of community, and our connection to nature.
Our Experience at the Chiang Mai Flower Festival
When we returned from our trip from Pai to our cool hostel in Chiang Mai, our host told us about the flower festival.
We had no idea so we expected something small. We were informed that several roads were blocked, so we walked our way through the parade route.
The warnings were accurate. Locals and foreigners on motorbikes skillfully maneuvered through the city, weaving through roadblocks and slow-moving tourists.
As we walked, we passed by elaborate gardens that were so grand that we thought we were already at the main park.
We even stopped on a bridge at the center of the city, which was full of plant baskets with pink flowers.
Soon we saw the enormous flower floats! Our assumptions were wrong! It was far from being a small parade. It was grand, well-crafted, and felt like stepping into a garden from Alice in Wonderland.
At Nong Buak Haad, I had the chance to get close to the floats. I couldn’t believe they were made entirely of flowers, so I had to touch them myself!
Upon entering the park, vibrant tulips in yellow, pink, red, and white greeted us. We marveled at how fresh and beautiful they were, pondering theories about how they were brought to the park (along with some business questions about imports, etc.).
Another captivating feature of the park was the orchid garden. Chiang Mai orchids are renowned worldwide for their deep hues, thanks to Chiang Mai’s cool climate.
The park also featured cool exhibits and illuminations throughout. And, of course, tasty treats from the food stalls.
We’ve always loved Chiang Mai for its cool climate and laidback atmosphere compared to Bangkok. It has plenty of great hikes and quiet temples.
But Chiang Mai Flower Festival managed to make us fall in love with the city a bit more.
Top Attractions at the Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025
Chiang Mai Flower Festival showcases the regionās stunning tropical flowers and cultural heritage. Here are the top attractions during the Flower Festival Chiang Mai:
The Flower Float Parade
The main highlight of the festival is the Flower Float Parade.
Local groups spend months designing and creating floral floats featuring traditional Thai shapes, symbols, animals, religious figures, and more.
The amazing part is that all of the flower floats are crafted entirely from natural materials! I even went so close to one float to touch it to see if these were real flowers, and they were!
Happiness on the Way Tip
Try this Mindfulness Exercise. Look closely at the flower floats. Notice the color, shape, texture, and smell of the flowers. Savor it. Look at people in the float. Notice their expressions. The smiles and pride on their faces. Think of how these flowers were grown.
From the nourishment of the soil, water, and sun to the farmers who took care of them, send gratitude to everything and everyone who made this beauty possible.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 205 Parade Route + Map
The Flower Parade usually starts at around 8:00 in the morning. About 25 floats line up on Charoen Muang Road and slowly move towards Nawarat Bridge.
The flower parade meanders slowly through the streets, accompanied by marching bands and traditional dancers in their traditional costumes.
The parade progresses over the bridge towards the old city, up Tha Phae Road. From there, it takes a left turn along the moat at Tha Phae Gate, leading to Suan Buak Haad Public Park.
After the parade, you can still admire the floats at the park; they remain on display until late at night.
At the park’s entrance, you’ll also find numerous stalls selling delicious Thai cuisine. So, don’t worry if you miss lunch or dinner; you’ll have plenty of options!
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025: Event Schedule
Friday, January 31, 7:00 PM
- Opening ceremony of the 47th Chiang Mai Flower Festival
- Exhibition of flower arrangements, decorative plants, and mini garden landscaping at Suan Buak Haad Park
- Suan Buak Haad Park will be on Friday the 2nd, Saturday the 3rd, and Sunday the 4th from 9:00 AM to midnight.
Friday, January 31, from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- The Annual Miss Flower Blooming Beauty Contest at Suan Buak Haad Park
Saturday, February 1, 8:00 AM
- The famous flower parade of more than 25 flower floats. The parade will start from the Nawarat Bridge, then t go along Thapae Road, Kotchasarn Road, Changlor Road, and Arak Road, and end at Suan Buak Haad Park.
Saturday, February 1 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thai Lanna Performance and Cultural Show at the Suan Buak Haad Park
Saturday, February 1 at 7:00 PM
- Awarding of the winners for The Flower Festival Parade floats at Suan Buak Haad Park
Sunday, February 2, 6:00 PM
- Music performances at Suan Buak Haad Park
Sunday, February 2, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thai Lanna Performance and Cultural Show at the Suan Buak Haad Park
Flower Exhibitions at Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025
Suan Buak Haad Park transforms into a flower paradise during the festival with its vibrant floral displays and gardening exhibitions.
Some of the exotic species of flowers, like Damask Roses, miniature trees, and local orchids, which are naturally found only in Thailand, are also featured.
Apart from gardeners, you can also check different gardening displays and setups from landscapers inspired by both local and international gardens.
I enjoy strolling the themed garden sections, like the Tulips Garden, Gerbera Garden, and Orchid Greenhouse. I even video-called my “plant mom” mother to show the variety of flowers being showcased and she was so amazed. Definitely, bringing her to this festival!
The park is open from Friday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to midnight. I also recommend visiting the park at night when it is illuminated by thousands of colorful lights.
Miss Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025
Another exciting feature of the Flower Festival Chiang Mai 2025 is the Miss Chiang Mai pageant. The contestants in the pageant are also featured on the floats.
Each contestant introduces themselves and showcases their talent during the performances.
The winner is selected and announced in the evening. Meanwhile, the celebrations carry on with parties, dancing, and singing.
Cultural Performances
In addition to the flowers, the festival celebrates Lanna culture.
Traditional dance troupes, musical ensembles, and hill tribe groups perform on stages around the city, especially in Suan Buak Haad Park.
Thai Street Food Market
Before reaching Suan Buak Haad Public Park, you’ll pass by a row of Thai street food stalls.
Enjoy a variety of local rice meals, drinks, and desserts. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. No need to worry about skipping a meal before the festival.
And as promised, I’ll also share the best street food spot after the festival. Chiang Mai’s second largest night market is located at Wua Lai Walking Street, only an 11-minute walk away from Suan Buak Haad Park, where the flower exhibitions and flower floats are.
And it happens every Saturday during the flower parade! This is one of the best night markets in Chiang Mai with several hundred stalls. A perfect way to end your Chiang Mai Flower Festival experience.
Tips for Enjoying the Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025
Here are a few tips that will help you make the most of your festival experience:
Arrive Early. If you want to experience the full festival, arrive early, before 8 a.m. when the festival opens.
If you want to secure a good spot for viewing, arrive at least an hour before the opening. Expect both tourists and locals to flock to the parade route for this festival.
This allows you to beat the crowds and see the floral displays in all their morning glory. The flowers are freshest after the night’s cool temperatures and morning dew.
Or Arrive Late. Yes, you can also arrive late and go to Suan Suan Buak Haad Park where the flower floats will stay after the parade. This is also the main venue for the flower exhibitions and light illumination at night.
And as I’ve mentioned, it’s 11 minutes away from Wua Lai Walking Street Saturday Night Market so you can have a full itinerary.
Wear Comfortable Shoes and Bring Essentials. You’ll be on your feet exploring the many garden areas.
Don’t forget to bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water to stay hydrated in the warm weather.
Take time to stop and smell the roses – literally! Over 1 million flowers are used in the elaborate displays.
Gorgeous orchids, lilies, gerberas, and birds of paradise are artfully arranged around every corner. Have your camera ready to capture the vibrant colors and natural beauty.
Related: 75+ Best Slow Travel Quotes To Inspire You
Other Flower Festivals in Chiang Mai
Did you know about the other beautiful flower festivals in Chiang Mai and nearby from December to January? Here are more flower festivals to check out:
Charming Chiang Mai Flower Festival
The Charming Chiang Mai Flower Festival is a very similar flower festival but with extensive illuminations.
Held annually from December 15 until the New Year, this festival is celebrated in a larger venue outside the city center.
It captivates visitors with a magical atmosphere created by numerous light installations that complement the vibrant floral displays, similar to European Christmas Gardens.
Chiang Rai Flower Festival
The Chiang Rai Flower Festival is an annual event from December 28 until January 15 that features an impressive display of flowers and gardens set against the city’s beautiful temples.
The festival also showcases a variety of meticulously crafted flower arrangements and intricate garden displays.
Where to Stay During the Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025
Chiang Mai is a great place to find accommodation year-round, and during the flower festival, the city sees an influx of visitors.
To ensure a comfortable stay after enjoying all the festival has to offer, it’s best to book in advance.
The Park Society
If you’re looking for a community feel in Chiang Mai, consider checking out The Park Society.
It is located in a quiet location close to popular tourist spots and offers fast internet and a cozy common area where you can work or socialize with other travelers.
Their breakfast is delicious. You may even meet some friendly long-term guests during your stay.
We stayed there for a week and then returned for another week after our trip to Pai. If you happen to stay there, say hi to M!
ON Thapae Chiangmai
ON Thapae Chiangmai is located in the heart of Chiang Mai. This hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, providing access to the vibrant Thapae Gate and the city’s cultural attractions.
CREW Hotel
CREW Hotel stands out for its modern design and vibrant atmosphere. It provides a stylish and comfortable stay near Chiang Mai’s bustling Nimmanhaemin Road, making it an ideal choice for urban explorers.
Thai Akara – Lanna Boutique Hotel
With its timeless Lanna charm and meticulous attention to detail, this boutique hotel offers an authentic cultural experience in beautifully designed rooms that adhere to SHA Extra Plus safety standards.
Buri Gallery House
This hidden gem exudes artistic flair, with its unique gallery-inspired rooms and a peaceful courtyard, providing a distinctive stay in the artistic enclave of Chiang Mai.
Other Activities You’ll Love in Chiang Mai
If you’re staying for a few days in Chiang Mai, here are the other activities you can enjoy in this beautiful city:
Doi Inthanon National Park
Discover the beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak.
Admire the twin pagodas and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of this natural sanctuary. This is our favorite day trip from Chiang Mai!
Mama Noi Thai Cookery School Chiang Mai
Can’t get enough of Thai Food? Recreate them at home! Learn the art of Thai cooking from local chefs and enjoy a hands-on experience.
You’ll start by selecting fresh ingredients at the local market and then move on to cooking authentic Thai dishes. We did this as a couple and we still cook Tom Kha Gai from their menu!
Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Pha Lat Temples
I find Chiang Mai temples less touristy than the ones in Bangkok. I’ve been to most of them and I enjoyed discovering the serene and lesser-known temples.
Some are even hidden in the jungle, where you can enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Is Chiang Mai Flower Festival Worth Visiting?
Chiang Mai Flower Festival is a must-see event for anyone interested in flora, art, culture, travel, and good food. The festival showcases cultural activities that span across the city.
From the flower parade to exhibitions, it provides a glimpse into northern Thai culture. With breathtaking flowers, lively cultural performances, and perfect weather, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival offers a complete experience.
Well, there you have it, a guide to one of the most colorful celebrations in Northern Thailand. If you find yourself in Chiang Mai during the first week of February, don’t miss your chance to attend this colorful cultural festival experience Chiang Mai in bloom.
Have you been to Chiang Mai Flower Festival? How does Chiang Mai Flower Festival compare to other flower festivals you’ve attended around the world?
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Read More Thailand Travel Guides:
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- 10 Most Beautiful Phuket Beaches You’ll Love
- A Complete Guide to Big Buddha Phuket
- Chiang Mai Flower Festival Guide
- Charming Chiang Mai Flower Festival Guide
Slow Travel Planning Guide
š Should I buy travel insurance?
Absolutely YES! For just $5-10 USD per day, SafetyWing gives you peace of mind with its affordable coverage.
š² Where to buy a local sim in Chiang Mai?
I’ve switched to eSIMs for all my travels and it’s been a game-changer! Airalo’s eSIM offers cheap data in 200+ countries without roaming fees. Super easy to set up and top up! Get your Thailand eSIM here.
š© What’s the best way to book accommodations in Chiang Mai?
It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
šŗļø How do I find local experiences and tours?
I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISKLOOK”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
š Is renting a motorbike a good idea in Chiang Mai?
Absolutely! If you can drive a motorbike, I highly recommend renting one through BikesBooking. Public transport in Chiang Mai is not very good. We saved a lot of time and money by having our motorbike, and it was so much fun!
If you’re with friends or family, you can also rent a car from Discover Cars. The roads in Chiang Mai are less busy than Bangkok’s, so you can enjoy a more relaxed drive.
āļø How to find the best flight to Chiang Mai?
I always use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. It’s a search engine that compares prices across many airlines to get you the best deals.
š What’s the best way to get to Chiang Mai?
The best way to reach Chiang Mai is by plane, train, or bus. I use 12Go to find the best deals.
š¦ What is the best way to withdraw money in Chiang Mai?
I use my Wise card. Wise.com provides free global accounts and the most affordable money transfers. I can manage multiple currencies easily and withdraw cash at very low costs. Plus, I find their exchange rates are among the best available!
Wow, these photos are amazing! I haven’t been to Thailand but possibly hoping to go next year, maybe in February so I can make it to the Chiang Mai Flower Festival!
February is actually the best time to visit Chiang Mai. The weather is perfect, cool and refreshing but in the morning still a little bit warm. Also, it’s before the burning season of Chiang Mai. So I really recommend going to Chiang Mai in Feb!
Flowers Festivals are such great fun and this one looks good too. I have been to Thailand but not Chang Mai, so hopefully sometime in the future I will get to go. Thanks for sharing!
Chiang Mai is so far my favorite city in Thailand. I have been to Bangkok, Phuket, and Pai so far. Definitely, something to go back to Thailand for!
What a beautiful flower carnival. Thailand is high on my bucket-list. I dont know why i havent visited it yet. Chiangmai looks so offbeat.
Thailand has so many beautiful places and customs. The Chiang Mai festival looks absolutely dreamy, I would love to go some day!
The festival is right around my birthday! Thinking of taking this trip then and seeing the beautiful flowers! š great and thorough post!
This looks so beautiful! Hoping to make it to Asia one day, will have to mark this as a time and place to go.
The Swan Flower Arrangement looks so incredible! Iād 100% love this festival!!
The Swan Flower Arrangement was actually my favorite! I look at it for quite sometime and in awe of how intricate and pretty it is. It’s truly a remarkable sight, and I agreeāthis festival is a must-visit for flower enthusiasts. The creativity and beauty on display are simply breathtaking.
The flower festival in Chang Mai looks glorious!! Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos. We are hoping to have an extended stay in Chang Mai and I will try to plan our dates around this festival!
would say it’s worth extending your dates for. Not to mention, Chiang Mai is so beautiful with so many things to do.
My husband and I have been trying to plan a trip in February to Thailand – I had NO IDEA this festival existed and I’m a huge flower person, thank you so much for sharing!
Oh my, I’m planning a SE Asia trip this year, specifically Indonesia and Thailand and the flower festival in Chang Mai is so beautiful. This is very new as I have never seen on videos about this festival and I’m looking forward to visiting Chang Mai even tho I’m sure I won’t make it for this year’s flower festival. Loving your guides, let me plan my Itinerary based on your guides. Thanks so much.
You’re up for an amazing trip with those two islands! Even if you can’t make it to the flower festival, I’d still recommend adding Chiang Mai to your Thailand itinerary. It’s incredibly relaxing and unbelievably beautiful!
I hadn’t heard of the Chang Mai flower festival, but it’s added to my travel list now, thank you!
It’s a beautiful activity to add if you’re in Chiang Mai. You’re welcome!
Wow this is amazing! The arrangements are so beautiful. I didn’t even know this existed but now I’m hooked. Thanks for sharing all your insight.
I like your Happiness on the Way tip. I agree that if we slow down and savor what is in front of us, we can so much more depth from our experience.
I had no idea that the Chiang Mai Flower Festival exists but it looks so stunning! I guess that the perfect time for visiting Thailand is when this festival takes place.
Wow! That swan flower arrangement is spectacular. Some very talented people!
Simply amazing! Beautiful photos of all the flowers.