Laos festivals and events 2026: dates
Festivals and events in Laos in 2026: the dates of each one and what it means for your trip — celebrations, closures, high prices and when to book ahead.
Pi Mai (Lao New Year) 2026
Book aheadWater-splashing new year, biggest in Luang Prabang (mid-April). Book transport and lodging well ahead.
Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival) 2026
CelebrationHome-made rockets fired to summon the rains, with music and dancing. Usually May.
Boun Ok Phansa & Boat Racing 2026
CelebrationEnd of Buddhist Lent: candlelit offerings float down the Mekong and boat races follow. Lunar date, usually October.
Full moon of the 11th Lao lunar month, the end of Buddhist Lent (in October); the boat races are the next day.
That Luang Festival 2026
CelebrationVientiane's largest religious festival around the golden stupa. Lunar dates, usually November.
A week of celebrations culminating on the full moon of the 12th Lao lunar month, in November.
