The most important festival in Laos takes place in November on the night of the full moon. It is the Bun That Luang, or That Luang Festival, and it is held at the Pha That Luang temple, which is the nation’s most sacred religious temple and the national symbol. This mid-November event culminates on the full moon, but includes a weeklong event with music, fireworks and a candlelight pageant.
Along with That Luang Festival there is also the Vientiane Trade Fair, which is held at the same time and this takes place during the day to showcase Lao products, and instill pride in Laotian workers from near and far.
Other celebrations include the Boat Racing Festival, which begins at dawn with prayer and offerings at the temples and concludes with candlelight processions. Floats that are decorated with flowers and candles are set adrift down the Mekong River, and the next day a series of boat races are held.
Less sacred but just as impressive events also occur throughout the year, and two important days are Army National Day on January 20, which includes military parades, and of course Labor International Day, or May Day on May 1.
