Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) 2026: Get Ready for the Biggest Water Festival in Laos
LAOS — One of the most exciting times to visit Laos is during the Lao New Year, known locally as Pi Mai Lao. The festival marks the traditional New Year and usually takes place every year from April 14 to April 16, although celebrations in many places can last several days longer. In 2026, the
New Art Space Opens in Vientiane: SL Gallery Showcases Contemporary Lao Artists
VIENTIANE, Laos — A new art space has opened its doors in the capital, offering visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary Lao creativity. SL Gallery VTE recently launched its grand opening exhibition at Royal Square Center, presenting artworks from six talented Lao artists. The opening event took place on March 3, 2026, bringing together artists,
Elephants Rehearse Ahead of Sayaboury Elephant Festival 2026, Visitors Invited to Attend
Elephants in Sayaboury Province have begun rehearsing for their performances scheduled on 1 February 2026, as part of the final preparations for the Sayaboury Elephant Festival 2026. The festival will take place from 9 to 16 February 2026 and is expected to feature a total of 50 elephants, making it one of the most anticipated
Wat Phou Champasak Festival 2026 to Be Held in Grand Celebration
The annual Wat Phou Champasak Festival 2026 will be held on a grand scale from 31 January to 2 February 2026 at Wat Phou Champasak, one of Laos’ most important historical and spiritual sites. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for the evening of 31 January 2026. This year’s festival is especially significant as it
Housewarming ceremony in Laos
When a Lao family moves into a new home, the occasion is marked by a housewarming ceremony, known locally as a meaningful and joyful moment rather than a formal event. For Lao people, building and moving into a new house is closely connected to spiritual belief, family unity, and community support. If you are a
Phra That Sikhottabong: A Peaceful and Sacred Stop in Thakhek, Khammouane
THAKHEK, LAOS — Tucked along the Mekong River in Thakhek, Phra That Sikhottabong is a meaningful cultural and spiritual site that many travelers are pleasantly surprised to discover while exploring central Laos. Phra That Sikhottabong is considered one of the most important stupas in Khammouane province. Local people believe it contains sacred relics and has
Chinese New Year 2026 in Laos: Dates, Traditions, and What to Expect
Chinese New Year in 2026 will be celebrated on 29 January 2026, marking the beginning of the Lunar New Year. In Laos, this festival is widely observed, especially among Lao–Chinese, Lao–Vietnamese, and families with Chinese heritage who have lived in the country for generations. While it is not an official public holiday nationwide, the celebration
Luang Prabang Music Festival 2026 Set to Go Ahead in February
LUANG PRABANG, LAOS — Music lovers and travelers are invited to mark their calendars as the Luang Prabang Music Festival 2026 has been confirmed and will take place as scheduled on February 6–7 at the Luang Prabang Provincial Football Stadium. With its large-scale production, energetic live performances, and iconic setting, the festival is expected to
Elephant Festival Set to Return to Xayabouly in February
XAYABOULY, LAOS — Xayabouly province is preparing to host its annual Elephant Festival next month, with around 50 elephants expected to take part in the week-long event celebrating Laos’ long-standing relationship with its national animal. The festival will be held in Xayabouly district from February 9 to 16, bringing together elephant handlers, local communities, and
Special Gymnastics Performance to Mark 77th Anniversary of the Lao People’s Army
VIENTIANE — A special gymnastics performance will be staged in Vientiane later this month to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Lao People’s Army, offering residents and visitors a unique cultural and sporting event in the capital. The performance will take place at the National Gymnastics Centre, located in Chanthabouly district. The event is expected