Every year, on the evening of the full moon of the 12th lunar month, thousands of paper lanterns are launched into the skies above Chiang Mai. At temples all across the city, monks help tourists and residents alike light their lanterns and send them into the sky with a wish. It is a stunning display that goes on for hours; until the sun comes up lanterns can be seen drifting up towards the heavens, carrying with them the desires of the people below.