Boun Ok (Awk) Phansa – End of Buddhist Lent

After three months of retreat, the monks return to their daily social activities at Boun Ok Phansa, which marks the end of Buddhist Lent. This is also a national public holiday in Laos, which occurs around the conclusion of the rainy season in October. During this time, devotees assemble at temples across the country to deliver money and offerings in spectacular lighted processions staged in the evening.

Hundreds of colorful floats containing flowers, incense, candles, food, and even money are then sent down the Mekong River, which means Mother of Any Things, with prayers to wash away all negativity. In Vientiane, this is also the season to enjoy fantastic boat racing festivals along the Mekong River.

Time: in October

Venue: in the whole country