During the festival, families prepare an array of offerings, including food and symbolic items, which are brought to temples and sacred sites. Monks and villagers come together to perform ceremonies aimed at guiding the spirits of the departed and ensuring their peace. The festival features traditional activities such as creating intricate displays of offerings and participating in communal prayers and rituals.
The event is further enhanced by cultural activities, including traditional music, dance performances, and local processions. Luang Prabang’s temples and streets are adorned with colourful decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere as the community unites to celebrate and observe these important rites.
October
Boun Ok Phansa
17 October 2024
This day marks the end of Buddhist Lent, and the evening is illuminated by candles in and around the temples. A key highlight of the celebrations is the beautiful ceremony of Lai Hua Fai, or fireboats. During this event, small boats made from banana tree trunks and decorated with flowers and candles are floated down the river. It is believed that these fireboats help to dispel bad luck and invite good fortune for the year ahead.
During Boun Ok Phansa, Luang Prabang is a feast for the senses, where you can experience traditional music and dance performances, and admire the picturesque decoration of lanterns and candles that light up the streets and temples.
Guests at Amantaka are warmly invited to join inthefestivitiesbycreatingtheirown Krathong, or fireboat. These will be floated into the Nam Khan River, a tributary of the Mekong, as part of the vibrant fireboat procession.
Luang Prabang Marathon
26 October 2024
Embrace the challenge and charm of the Luang Prabang Marathon 2024, a premier event that combines athletic achievement with the cultural splendour of one of Laos’s most captivating cities. Set amidst the stunning landscapes and historic ambience of Luang Prabang, this marathon offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s beauty and heritage while participating in a world-class running event.
Additionally, the programme supports various local charities and community projects. Proceeds from the event are allocated to initiatives that benefit social, environmental, and developmental causes in the Luang Prabang region.
Race Categories: Half Marathon (21km), 14K Run, and 7K Run.
