The Boun That Luang Festival or just That Luang Festival is the most important religious event in Laos. It doesn’t only attract locals, but also visitors from other countries like Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. What many don’t know is that it’s not just a religious celebration related to Buddhism and the golden stupa. For Laotians, it’s also a celebration of the nation itself. If you happen to be in Vientiane at the right time, we highly recommend experiencing the festival firsthand.
When is the That Luang Festival celebrated?
Boun That Luang is celebrated during the twelfth lunar month. Since it’s related to the lunar calendar, it can fall in late October, November or early December. The celebrations lasts at least three days, but can stretch over a full week depending on the year. If you plan to participate, make sure to check the exact dates in advance and book your accommodation early.
Where is the That Luang Festival celebrated?
As the name already suggests, the festival is celebrated around the Pha That Luang stupa in Vientiane. Given the enormous cultural and religious importance of the site, that’s no surprise. After all, legend says it houses Buddha’s breastbone. Not to mention that it’s the most important national monument of the country. No other monument has been renovated that many times.
What happens during the That Luang Festival?
Although not comparable in many aspects, in terms of importance the Boun That Luang Festival is for Laos what Songkran is for Thailand. During the festival many Laotians wear their best clothes to pay respect and take part in the ceremonies. As you would expect for a big festival, there are numerous activities. Feel free to join the locals and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere.
Grand Procession to the That Luang Stupa
Probably the most iconic activity of all is the grand procession at the start of the festival. When it starts, thousands of Laotians from all over the country start walking towards the golden stupa together, carrying candles, flowers, incense and other symbolic offerings. The exact numbers are hard to determine, but you can expect around tens of thousands of people participating. An important part of the grand procession is a parade with men and women dressed in traditional Lao clothing.
Blessings and religious offerings
After the grand procession, blessings are given. Here the several hundred or even thousands of monks from Laos and neighboring countries play an important role. The Laotians offer prayers for their families and friends to receive good fortune and health. Technically, the whole Pha That Luang complex and the surrounding area become a huge place of worship and spiritual gathering. Visitors from abroad are welcome to join in the ceremonies. Just don’t forget to bring some offerings like fruits. These blessings carry deeper meaning beyond just good fortune. It’s basically all about cleansing, purification and unity.
Market stalls at the festival
One of the central highlights of the celebrations is a huge fair with a lot of music, performances, and of course market stalls. Vendors sell all kinds of things, including traditional crafts, local snacks, and handmade clothes. Since the event is deeply rooted in local traditions, most of the stalls are aimed towards Laotians. This creates a more authentic experiences for those wanting to immerse themselves in the culture. Technically the fair, a trade fair with exhibitions, products and services from all over Laos, already starts before the That Luang Festival. So even if you’re not there at the exact days of the That Luang Festival, you might still be able to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
How to get to the Boun That Luang Festival
If you want to take part in the colorful candlelight wax castle procession, also known as Phasat Pheung, you should head to Wat Si Muang temple. There, on the first day of the Boun That Luang around late afternoon or early evening, people begin to prepare the wax castles, before they parade through the streets in a beautiful procession. Below you can see a map showing how to get to Wat Si Muang.
If you already missed the procession or the preparation at Wat Si Muang, just head directly to Pha That Luang. All the festivities are centered around the area around the golden stupa. You really can’t miss it, because every tuk tuk will know exactly where to take you. You might even have trouble finding one, since many drivers will attend the festival themselves.
How to behave at the Boun That Luang Festival
Sometimes the mood at the festival resembles the night market in Vientiane. Therefore, you won’t even notice that Boun That Luang is primarily a religious festival. Nonetheless, you should behave in a respectful manner, especially if you’re around the temples or religious ceremonies. Just don’t disrupt the ceremonies, avoid lewd behavior, and think twice before taking photos. Sometimes it’s better to ask for permission.
Final thoughts
Among all the festivals in Laos, Boun That Luang stands out the most. If you’re in Vientiane, it’s one of the best occasions to immerse yourself in Laotian culture, connect to the locals, and experience the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Even if you’re not interested much in religious ceremonies, you’re most likely going to have a good time. Just enjoy the food, music and vibrant atmosphere.
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