Boun Khoun Khao – Rice Festival

Boun Khoun Khao is one of Laos' most prominent annual celebrations, reflecting the respect for a successful existence thanks to agriculture. The celebration is normally held in March, but the exact date is determined by the lunar calendar. If you visit Laos these days, the mournful atmosphere will overwhelm you as you witness traditional ceremonies in small communities and antique temples. The locals sitting around Pha Khuan – a big bunch of flowers in vibrant hues and imaginative adornment – waiting for the village patriarch to be put on their wrists by a white rope and prayed for happiness is the symbolic image of this occasion.

During the ceremony, a village elder wraps white cotton strings around the wrists of the attendees and prays for their happiness. Many delicacies, including deep-fried Mekong fish, papaya salad, and rice wine, are served on celebratory days to demonstrate gratitude to nature and the Mekong River for providing abundant crops to the people. Following the rites, participants will participate in thrilling and engaging activities such as dancing and singing to traditional music.

Time: in March
Venue: in the rural parts of Laos