Events in Laos to plan for

A place of calm beauty and strong customs, Laos is a nation where events may not be frequent but are always fervent expressions of history and culture. Each occasion — from the magical Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) to the captivating Boat Racing Festival — bursts with happiness, music and splashes of bright color.

Traditional dances, parades and ceremonies form the fabric of these celebrations, affording visitors an exceptional opportunity to appreciate Lao culture. Another large event is the That Luang Festival, which draws people from across the country for religious rituals and merrymaking.

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Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year)

Taking place in mid-April, Boun Pi Mai signals the Lao New Year; it’s also one of the most important festivals in Laos. The three-day celebration sees vibrant processions wind their way through towns accompanied by traditional music and dance. Water is used in various ways during the festivities as a symbol of cleansing or washing away bad luck; people also visit temples to make merit, while numerous community gatherings provide opportunities for locals –– as well as visitors –– to share festive meals and enjoy cultural performances together.

That Luang Festival

The most sacred monument in Laos –– Vientiane’s That Luang Stupa –– forms the centerpiece for this November event. Lasting a week, it features religious ceremonies along with traditional music and dance plus a bustling market. Pilgrims flock from all over the country to pay homage; on the festival’s final day there’s a grand procession around the stupa by monks and devotees that creates a strikingly beautiful spiritual atmosphere.