Representatives of government, embassies, NGOs, and members of the Lao Handicraft Association attend a press conference to announce the annual Lao Handicraft Festival.

Crafts at the heart of tourism: Lao Handicraft Festival announces new venue and theme

The annual Lao Handicraft Festival, one of the country’s most important cultural events, is set to return for its 24th edition from October 22-26, featuring a new venue and an enriched programme of exhibitions, performances, and educational activities.
The fair will take place from October 22-26 at its newly designated venue, the Traditional Lao Silk Residence, located next to the Presidential Office in Xiengyeun village, Chanthabouly district, Vientiane.

President of the Lao Handicraft Association, Mrs Souvita Paseuth (centre) addresses the press conference.

A press conference to announce date and venue on Thursday was attended by the Director General of the Department for the Promotion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Ms Manivone Vongxay; Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ms Chanthachone Vongxay; and representatives of embassies and international organisations.
President of the Lao Handicraft Association, Mrs Souvita Paseuth, said the 2025 edition will take the theme “Weaving – Tying Love, Conserving the Tradition of Marriage” and the slogan “Crafts are the Heart of Tourism”.
The fair will highlight the cultural richness of Lao artisanship while showcasing traditional crafts to local and international visitors.
At the same time, this year’s festival marks National Handicraft Day on November 1 and the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic on December 2.
The event aims to promote and preserve traditional Lao craftsmanship, particularly in textiles, provide a platform for marketing, networking, and knowledge exchange for Lao artisans and entrepreneurs, and serve as a place of education for students, scholars, and those interested in the conservation of Lao heritage, Ms Souvita said.
The Traditional Lao Silk Residence is a newly established facility dedicated to preserving and exhibiting ancient Lao textiles. Officially opened to the public on October 23, 2024, the centre provides an immersive environment for learning about traditional weaving and textile art.
More than 130 exhibition booths will be set up, displaying silk and cotton textiles; jewellery and ornaments fashioned from silver, gold and gems; basketry and woven goods made from rattan and bamboo; and cultural products such as pottery, wood carvings, musical instruments and paintings.
There will also be stalls selling traditonal snacks, organic produce, and herbal drinks.
In addition to product exhibitions, visitors can enjoy a range of interactive and cultural experiences.
These include live demonstrations of traditional handicraft techniques by artisans from various provinces; a recreation of the “Ancient Market Way of Life”; daily performances by students from local schools; and a procession to celebrate National Handicraft Day starting at 6am on October 25, from the Anousavari Monument to the Traditional Lao Silk Residence.
The festival will also feature a series of expert-led seminars to promote deeper understanding and appreciation of Lao traditions, scheduled for October 23 from 9am to 12 noon.
As a grand finale, a Lao Fashion Show will take place on the evening of October 27 at the Landmark Hotel, featuring traditional wedding costumes and ethnic attire from across the country, highlighting the beauty, symbolism, and diversity of Lao textile traditions.
The 24th Lao Handicraft Festival promises to be more than just a commercial fair.
It is a vibrant celebration of identity, tradition, and craftsmanship, bringing together artisans, cultural leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and the general public in a shared space of cultural pride and creative exchange.
The organising committee warmly invites both Lao and international guests to attend, explore, and support Lao artisans as they continue to preserve and promote one of the country’s most valuable cultural legacies.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update October 13, 2025)