Ethnic art show, product exhibition launched
 
The members of 10 ethnic groups performed and exhibited their traditional arts, aspects of their lifestyle, and local products last week at Pheuksa Garden, a cultural tourist attraction in Naxaithong district, Vientiane.
Activities included the singing of songs, fashion shows, food and drink sampling, and tours of Pheuksa Garden. The events took place during the daytime and evening from 9am to 9pm.  

The event officially opened on December 27 and ended on December 29. It was organised by the Lao Front for National Development in cooperation with Pheuksa Garden President Mr Phouvong Phamisith, who is a committee member and ethnic group advisor to the Lao Front.
A senior official of the organising committee of the Lao Front who spoke at the opening ceremony said the aim of the event was to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Lao Front (August 13, 2020) and to strengthen solidarity among ethnic groups.
He said the Lao Front has played a significant role in encouraging people across the country to participate in the task of national development and protection, to forge ties with ethnic people, and maintain and build solidarity among Lao people at home and abroad.   
The tribes that took part in the festival included the Hmong, Khmu, Lue, Lao, Meuy, Tai Dam, Tai Deng, Phouthai, Phounoy, Lue and Bru.
The President of Pheuksa Garden, Mr Phouvong Phamisith, who is a well-known gold trader, said Pheuksa Garden was very happy to host this inaugural event.
Visitors enjoyed shows and exhibits featuring the arts, traditions, cultures and products of 10 ethnic groups. They also enjoyed the various activities on offer at Pheuksa Garden such as model ethnic houses, bicycle riding, fishing, coffee shops, flower gardens, and the resort and spa.
Mr Phouvong said they now had 11 houses representing 11 ethnic groups and planned to build more to represent all 50 ethnic groups in Laos. The garden was not just a place for visitors to have a holiday, but also allowed them to learn about the lifestyles of various ethnic groups.
He urged the authorities to support the garden forever.      
The event was also attended by the President of the Lao Front, Dr Xaysomphone Phomvihane, who is a Politburo member. He joined the organising committee in cutting a ribbon and struck a gong nine times to open the event.
He and guests then toured the exhibition and garden, with hundreds of people participating in the launch.
In November, Pheuksa Garden hosted the Vientiane Boun Kinchieng (Hmong) Festival, which featured a number of colourful shows and activities.

By Manichanh Pansivongxay
(Latest Update December 30, 2019)