Devotees reverently pour water over a Buddha statue as one of the Lao New Year rituals. (File photo)

City gets into gear for Lao New Year festivities
 
The residents of Vientiane are eagerly anticipating the annual Lao New Year celebrations and authorities have planned a series of events to attract both domestic and foreign tourists, promoting tourism and giving a boost to the local economy.
Key figures including the Chairman of the Lao Front For National Development, Mr Thanom Thamthong, Head of the Vientiane’s Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Mrs Viengphon keokhounsy, other officials, stakeholders, and media personnel gathered at the Vientiane Administration Office last week for an unveiling of the plans.
Mrs Viengphon said  “The Lao New Year celebrations present a prime opportunity for Vientiane to showcase its rich cultural heritage and use tourism to give a much-needed fillip to local businesses.”
“Our aim is to entice both local and foreign visitors, with an expected influx of over 10,000 visitors during the Lao New Year period,” she added.
During Visit Laos Year 2024, the government hopes to attract at least 2.7 million foreign tourists, generating revenue of about US$401 million, while in 2025 tourist arrivals are forecast to reach 2.9 million and generate income of US$434 million.
The customary Lao New Year rituals, scheduled from April 13 to April 16, will preserve age-old Lao traditions while also having great international appeal. Two overarching themes will govern the celebrations: the preservation of cultural traditions and the promotion of tourism.
The programme of traditional events kicks off on April 13 with the respectful Sangha ceremony when a procession will wind its way along Setthathirath Road.
On the same day, a Baci ceremony will take place at Simeuang temple while at the revered That Luang stupa and Chao Xaysettha park, the ritual pouring of water over Buddha images is slated to occur between 3pm and 5pm.
On April 14 and 15, religious ceremonies will be conducted along Setthathirath Road, starting at 7am.
City authorities have earmarked three prime locations of particular attraction to tourists: the area around the Chao Anouvong stadium, Nam Phou in Xieng Yuen village, and Chao Anouvong park.
Each of these locations will have stalls selling a colourful array of food and consumer goods, with vendors present from 10am to 10pm.
The Lao New Year festival encapsulates the essence of Lao traditions, from the heartfelt prayers made to Buddha images and monks to the revelry on the streets when animated water battles will see everyone get a soaking.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update April 1, 2024)