(KPL) The 19th Annual Elephant Festival 2026 opened on February 14 at the Sayabouly Provincial Stadium, drawing senior officials, invited guests and large crowds to celebrate the province’s elephant heritage.

The opening ceremony was attended by Khamphan Pheuyyavong, Member of the Political Bureau of the Party Central Committee and Head of the Central Propaganda and Training Board, and Phengnilan Khamphanpheng, Member of the Party Central Committee and Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee.

Reporting on preparations, Amay Songyialeng, Vice Governor of Sayabouly Province and Vice Chairman of the Festival Organizing Committee, said the event aims to strengthen elephant conservation, preserve the cultural traditions of the province’s multi-ethnic communities, and support sustainable tourism.

He said 50 elephants from across the province are participating, providing opportunities for natural breeding and for mahouts to demonstrate skills and exchange knowledge to help sustain the profession.

Festival highlights include daily elephant performances, cultural shows and a trade fair featuring 324 stalls that opened on February 9. Products on display include “One District, One Product” (ODOP) goods, agricultural and handicraft items, and processed industrial products from 11 districts, alongside contributions from public and private sectors.

Visitors can also take part in guided eco-tourism activities, including trips to the Elephant Conservation and Asian Elephant Breeding Center (Phou Khen) and other local attractions in the provincial capital.

Organizers said the festival will continue with daily performances, exhibitions and cultural activities aimed at promoting conservation awareness and showcasing the unique relationship between elephants and the people of Sayabouly.

KPL