KPL
Large crowds gathered in Vientiane on 4 November to take part in the annual Wax Castle Procession, one of the key highlights of the That Luang Festival — known locally as Boun Namatsakan Phra That Luang Vientiane.
(KPL) Large crowds gathered in Vientiane on 4 November to take part in the annual Wax Castle Procession, one of the key highlights of the That Luang Festival — known locally as Boun Namatsakan Phra That Luang Vientiane.
The event, which falls on the 14th day of the waxing moon of the 12th Lao lunar month, drew residents of the capital as well as visitors from across Laos and abroad. The lively atmosphere reflected the city’s commitment to preserving Lao culture, tradition, and public harmony.
This year’s procession began at Nongbon Temple before moving to the That Luang stupa, where participants circled the cloister three times in reverence to the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha.
Leading the procession were Buddhist monks and senior officials, including Mr Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, President of the Lao Front for National Construction; Ms Suansavanh Viyaketh, Minister of Culture and Tourism; and Mr Phouvong Vongkhamxao, Vice Mayor of Vientiane Capital.
Participants carried ornately decorated wax castles — known as Pha Sat Pheung — accompanied by traditional music and performances from various ethnic groups, showcasing Laos’s cultural diversity and unity.
The Wax Castle Procession is regarded as both a religious and cultural event symbolising the diligence, creativity, and solidarity of the Lao people. The centuries-old tradition continues to be observed each year to preserve the nation’s cultural heritage for future generations.
KPL
