An elephant puts on a show for spectators.(File Photo Houmphet Manisouk)

Xayaboury gears up for annual Elephant Festival

The 18th Elephant Festival will take place in Xayaboury province from February 18-24, with 50 elephants gathering in the provincial capital to put on a crowd-pleasing show.
The event aims to preserve Laos’ dwindling elephant population which is at risk of extinction, with almost none remaining in the wild, and ensure their popularity continues, driving efforts to inspire support for their conservation.
The elephant has long been a symbol of national identity and features prominently in names and logos, reflecting its enduring place in Laos’ history and culture.
Every year the festival draws large numbers of visitors to Xayaboury to witness the spectacle of the majestic beasts, which are led and trained by their mahouts.
The Deputy Governor of Xayaboury province, Mr Phetphixay Sounvilay, said the festival was first planned for the end of January but this clashed with the Chinese and Vietnamese new year and the kapok festival in Bokeo province, so it was postponed to February.
Fifty elephants will take part in the festival, as this number reflects the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao PDR in December this year.
The first day of the festival will begin with a mini-marathon and elephant rides, followed by cultural shows in the evening.
On February 19 and 20 there will be rehearsals for the elephant parade and a parade featuring people from eight ethnic groups representing each district of the province.
On the evening of February 19 there will be a street market selling a wide range of products made in Laos and other countries.
February 20 will feature elephant shows and a Miss Elephant contest.
On February 22 the official launch of the festival will take place, followed by a paramotor display and rides in hot air balloons over Xayaboury district, the provincial capital.
The programme for February 23 features elephants shows and rides, hot air balloon rides, and a night-time concert.
The closing ceremony will take place on February 24, when souvenirs will be presented to elephants and participating members of ethnic groups.
Xayaboury is situated in northern Laos about 300 kilometres from Vientiane and is readily accessible within Laos and from neighbouring countries.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest UpdateJanuary 29, 2025)