ຂປລ
Vientiane Province will hold its annual traditional boat racing festival on November 15, 2026, along the Nam Ngum River in Khum Nam Phanai, Ban Keun Kang, Thoulakhom District, featuring the main 55-rower boat racing competition.
(KPL) The 10-day festival, running from November 6-15, aims to preserve Lao cultural traditions while promoting tourism, local businesses and community participation. It is expected to attract residents, business operators and domestic and international visitors.
Preparations, led by the Thoulakhom District Administration under provincial guidance, are well underway. An organizing committee comprising 10 sub-committees has been established to oversee the event. Officials have also held coordination meetings with village leaders along the Nam Ngum River and participating sports teams to ensure smooth arrangements.
Local authorities are inspecting and refurbishing boats, preparing decorations and training young rowers ahead of the competition. Thoulakhom District Party Secretary Khamle Saiyavongsy has also called on local communities to take part in the festival.
Racing Schedule and Activities
The festival will feature two main competitions:
November 14: 12-rower sports boat races.
November 15: Official opening ceremony and traditional 55-rower boat races.
Visitors can also enjoy a trade fair showcasing consumer goods, One District One Product (ODOP) specialties from across Vientiane Province, and exhibitions by banks and state enterprises. Entertainment will include performances by Dao Neua band and local artists.
18 Teams to Compete for Top Prizes
A total of 18 traditional 55-rower boats have registered for the main competition, including 14 from Thoulakhom District, one from Viengkham District and three from Vientiane Capital.
The prize pool includes 80 million kip and a trophy for first place, 60 million kip for second place, 50 million kip for third place and 30 million kip for fourth place. Each of the remaining boats will receive a consolation prize of 10 million kip.
Additional travel and logistical allowances will be provided to participating teams, with support ranging from four million to 10 million kip per boat, depending on their place of origin and eligibility.
The organizing committee and people of Vientiane Province invite local residents, business operators and visitors from Laos and abroad to attend the festival, enjoy the traditional boat races and experience the cultural heritage of the Nam Ngum River community.
KPL
