Festivals & events
Festivals and events that shape a trip — celebrations, closures, peak prices and when to book ahead.
Pi Mai (Lao New Year)
Book ahead
Apr
Water-splashing new year, biggest in Luang Prabang (mid-April). Book transport and lodging well ahead.
Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival)
Celebration
May · approximate dates
Home-made rockets fired to summon the rains, with music and dancing. Usually May.
Boun Ok Phansa & Boat Racing
Celebration
Oct · approximate dates
End of Buddhist Lent: candlelit offerings float down the Mekong and boat races follow. Lunar date, usually October.
That Luang Festival
Celebration
Nov · approximate dates
Vientiane's largest religious festival around the golden stupa. Lunar dates, usually November.
