Calendar of events in Luang Prabang, Laos

Locals of Luang Prabang love to celebrate and give thanks, hence the reason why there is always an exciting festival or event to attend. The three main ones to look out for include:

Boun Khoun Khao

This is the traditional harvest festival that takes place in January once all of the rice has been harvested. The aim of the celebration is to thank the spirits of the land for the harvest and to ask for a harvest just as plentiful the following year.

Boun Visakhaboucha

This festival generally occurs in May and is a hearty celebration of Buddha, his spiritual enlightenment and his teachings. It is a sacred celebration that is attended by all local believers. They spend a lot of the time in the temples in candlelight, quietly giving thanks and acknowledging the birth and life of Buddha. Tourists are always welcome to join in on the festivities.

Wat Phou Festival

This festival generally takes places every January or February with believers coming from far and wide, meeting up in an effort to nurture their relationships, connection and faith. The festival usually lasts three days and includes dancing, competitive sports (such as boat racing) and animal processions.