Festivals and Celebrations
Holidays in Laos, as in most of Southeast Asia, are a mix of traditional and religious, celebratory and enjoyable. The Lao New Year, or Pi Mai Lao, which occurs in April, is one of the most important ceremonies. Like Thailand's Songkran, this three-day holiday culminates in a statewide water fight. You should absolutely waterproof your valuables and electronics before venturing out onto the streets for this festivity.
Rocket Festivals will be held in a number of localities during May. Throughout this celebratory weekend, miniature rockets are launched into the sky like a prayer for rain. During the country's hot and dry season, this festival also serves as an opportunity to cool off with some Lao beer and let loose a little!
Boun Awk Pansa, which takes place in October, celebrates the end of the monks' three-month fast during Buddhist Lent. Traditional offerings are made at temples in the morning, and by the evening, the ambiance has changed to that of a celebration. Small boats made of banana leaves and decorated with candles and flowers are sent down rivers.
A boat racing festival follows Boun Awk Pansa. Races are held in several towns throughout the country, but Vientiane has the largest and most significant. The athletes train for months ahead of time, and the entire city comes alive with anticipation as they prepare for the races. If you're in Laos in October, this is an experience you won't want to miss.
