From Luang Prabang to Vientiane, Lao New Year celebrations unite communities

Lao New Year celebrations across Laos brought together communities in a colourful display of traditional customs, ranging from religious ceremonies to water revelry, with the highlights unfolding in Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
In Luang Prabang, the UNESCO-listed world heritage town, the Hae Vor procession on the day of Sangkhane Nao on Wednesday drew thousands of participants and spectators, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.

The procession, a longstanding tradition in the former Lao capital, began at Mahathat temple—also known as Thatnoy temple—and proceeded to Xiengthong temple. Nearly 40 groups representing provincial departments, districts, and villages took part, with more than 3,000 people contributing to the spectacle.

Among the attendees was the Head of the Commission for Information and Education of the Central Committee, Khamphan Pheuyavong, alongside former Party and government leaders, provincial and district authorities, a large number of local residents, and tourists.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the Luang Prabang City Administrative Committee and Vice Chairman of the organising committee, Saveuy Silavan, spoke about the significance of the event.

“The Hae Vor procession is a religious ritual shared by the multi-ethnic people of Luang Prabang that has been passed down for generations. Buddhist monks are invited to sit on ceremonial Vor (palanquins), allowing members of the public to pour scented water over them. This is followed by the Somma ceremony, in which people ask for forgiveness and blessings for prosperity, well-being, and good fortune,” he said.

This year’s parade involved 37 groups, including six ceremonial Vor for monks and around 300 novices. Other highlights included the Nang Sangkhane (Miss Lao New Year) procession, as well as delegations from Xiengngeun, Chomphet and Pakou districts.
The parade opened with young women carrying slogan banners, followed by displays of the Lao national flag and the flags of all the ASEAN member states. Traditional figures such as Pou Yer Ya Yer, representing ancestor spirits, and the Sing Keo–Sing Kham lion characters led the way, alongside elders bearing ceremonial offerings.

Further along the route, the monks’ Vor procession was accompanied by displays highlighting Luang Prabang’s historical honours, followed by delegations representing government agencies, districts, ethnic communities, and the Nang Vor and Nang Sangkhane groups.
The varying participants reflected the rich cultural diversity and enduring traditions of Luang Prabang, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a living heritage site where customs are preserved and celebrated annually.
Other provinces also marked the New Year with religious rituals and traditional practices, including almsgiving to monks, Baci ceremonies, sand stupa building, and ritual bathing of Buddha statues in temples, symbolising purification and renewal.
Meanwhile, in Vientiane, the celebrations took on a different character, with locals and visitors gathering in designated party zones and public spaces to enjoy live performances, water festivities, and social gatherings, reflecting a more contemporary yet communal New Year spirit.
Across the country, the annual festival was celebrated with joy and the hope of a bright future, with everyone coming together in a show of respect for tradition and national unity.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest UpdateApril 16, 2026)