Chiang Mai Municipality is under scrutiny after floral sculptures for this year’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival were first painted black and later removed entirely following a public backlash. The decision to repaint the city’s vibrant, floral-themed decorations black was intended as a mourning tribute to HM Queen Sirikit, who passed away last Friday. The Yi Peng Festival, which coincides with Loy Krathong on November 5, is a traditional Lanna-rooted event celebrated annually with illuminated floral displays, lanterns, and cultural performances.