(KPL) The That Luang Festival and Annual Trade Fair 2025 officially opened in Vientiane Capital on November 1 and will continue until November 5, marking one of the most significant national cultural events of the year. The festival is being organized on a grand scale at both Luang Prabang Square and Lao-ITECC Mall, featuring a wide range of activities that reflect the rich traditions and cultural identity of the Lao people.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, and attended by senior Party and State leaders, representatives of international organizations in Laos, invited guests, and residents of Vientiane Capital.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Kikeo expressed appreciation to the Vientiane Capital authorities and the organizing committee for successfully hosting this major national celebration. He emphasized that the That Luang Festival and Annual Trade Fair 2025 serves not only to preserve and promote the nation’s fine traditions and culture but also to strengthen trade, tourism, and international cooperation.

He voiced confidence that this year’s event would attract increasing numbers of both domestic and foreign visitors to the festival grounds and to key tourist sites across Vientiane Capital and the Lao PDR. The Deputy Prime Minister also called on all sectors government agencies, the private sector, international organizations, and the multi-ethnic Lao people to work together to ensure the festival’s success, maintain a joyful atmosphere, and guarantee public safety and security.

Mr. Atsaphangthong Siphandone, Mayor of Vientiane Capital, highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the That Luang Festival, which has long stood as a symbol of national pride and unity. The festival dates back to the period of King Setthathirath, who restored the Great Stupa and moved the capital from Luang Prabang to Vientiane in 1560, organizing a grand celebration that lasted seven days and seven nights. This tradition continues today, observed annually during the twelfth month of the Lao lunar calendar, beginning on the eighth day of the waxing moon.

This year’s festival features a series of religious and cultural activities, including a merit-making ceremony inside the That Luang cloister on the evening of November 3, a wax castle procession on the afternoon of November 4, and an alms-giving ceremony on the morning of November 5. The afternoon of the final day will include a fireworks procession and traditional sports competitions such as khee ball, followed by a candlelight procession in the evening to officially close the festival. Throughout the five days, visitors can enjoy the festival and its activities from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

In addition to the main celebrations at Luang Prabang Square, exhibitions and trade fairs are being held at Lao-ITECC Mall, featuring a variety of domestic products including agricultural goods, handicrafts, cultural items, and industrial products from large, medium, and small enterprises.

This year’s event also welcomes participation from friendly cities and partners from Vietnam, China, Cambodia, and Thailand, who have brought a range of products to display and sell, further promoting trade, cultural exchange, and friendship among neighboring countries.

KPL