The Prabang Buddha procession is one of the main events of the Lao New Year festivities in Luang Prabang.
--Photo Bounpon Phannasack

On the first day of the Lao New Year holiday on Monday, which marks the last day of the old year, government officials and local residents flock to That Luang temple in Vientiane to respectfully pour water over Buddha images, as part of a centuries-old tradition.

Elderly people trickle water over the hands of monks at That Luang temple as a sign of respect and to earn merit.

President Thongloun Sisoulith, government officials and local residents share in the Prabang Buddha procession. --Photo Bounpon Phannasack

Worshippers pour water over Buddha images in the grounds of Simeuang temple in Vientiane, which is revered as the home of the city’s guardian.

Devotees use sand to build a structure resembling a stupa at Mixay temple, on which prayer flags are placed.