As the Yi Peng Festival approaches, we extend an invitation to you to get ready by exploring an array of souvenirs and gifts associated with the festival. Here are three exceptional venues that curate captivating local products, offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in both traditional and contemporary art, exchange creative ideas, and ignite your inspiration;
1.Lanna Architecture Center - Khum Jao Burirat
The Koom Chao Burirat, also known as the Lanna Architecture Center, is a historic site in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with a history spanning over 140 years. In the past, Koom Chao Burirat, originally called Koom Glung Wiang, was the property of the Chao Burirat lineage, descendants of Chao Luang Kam Fan (the third ruler of Chiang Mai). Later, Chao Noi Chomchun, a prominent figure in Chiang Mai, the son of Chao Burirat, inherited and passed down this property through generations. The Thipyanand and Gitibutr families ultimately bequeathed the Koom Chao Burirat building to Chiang Mai University, where it remains to this day.
The Koom Chao Burirat building is now utilized as the headquarters of the Lanna Architecture Center, an organization under the Department of Arts, Culture, and Community, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of local culture and heritage.
Inside the center, there is a museum featuring exhibits on local cultural artifacts, as well as information about the various elements of the Yi Peng Festival, such as decorative lanterns, flower arrangements, and paper parasols. Additionally, there are unique and fascinating products like animal-shaped paper parasols available for purchase from the Kit Kraft store. The center also serves as a workshop space for exploring Lanna's cultural traditions.
Address: 117 Ratchadamnoen Road, Phra Singh Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nBEaC2bddgKQQMkr9
2. De Quarr Crafting Community
More than just a craft store, De Quarr has a mission to support community products and drive local traditional crafts in various communities across Thailand into contemporary everyday life. Their products are modernized versions of community items, including handwoven textiles, clothing, jewelry, and home decor.
Of particular interest are the contemporary octagonal lanterns designed for decorating various spaces, making them a noteworthy product related to the Yi Peng Festival. Additionally, there are other Yi Peng Festival-related products soon to be released.
Address: 96 Ratchawong Road, Chang Moi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/SgVsamERVj83w8zk6
3. The Muang Sarat Lhuang Community, a hub for producing Lanna lanterns
This community is renowned for its production of Lanna lanterns, which is the primary livelihood of its residents. It all began with Mae Bua Lai from the Panyaa Faction, who initiated the creation of lanterns in a new and innovative style while preserving the traditional Lanna lantern-making techniques. She also shared her knowledge of lantern crafting with the people in the community. Over time, the craft was passed down through generations, and each household in the community began making lanterns. Today, almost every household in the community is involved in lantern production.
Each shop offers lanterns in various forms, including hanging lanterns, hand-held lanterns, decorative lanterns, and lantern lamps, in a wide range of styles and colors to choose from. One highly recommended shop is Nattanicha, known for its adorable miniature lanterns, among other sizes. These lanterns make delightful souvenirs or charming gifts for the Yi Peng Festival.
Address: Muang Sarat Lhuang Community, Wat Ket Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. https://maps.app.goo.gl/JhzsFX87FPDSvNtH8