Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (third left) walks around the That Luang stupa. - Photo: Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE: The annual That Luang Festival, running from November 11-15, is set to draw thousands of visitors with over 1,600 stalls selling Lao handicrafts and food, alongside various cultural exhibits.
Visiting the festival on Monday (Nov 11), Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone said “I would like to take this opportunity to inform all of you, including the media, to ensure that this significant event takes place in an atmosphere of peace and security and promotes the conservation of Laos’ traditions and culture, encouraging Lao and foreign visitors to worship and visit the stupa in large numbers.”
“I encourage all parties, both public and private, as well as international organisations, including Lao people of all ethnic groups, to work together and support this event in order to create a joyful atmosphere,” he added.
The That Luang Festival and Exhibition is one of the highlights of the Visit Laos Year programme and serves to preserve the country’s beautiful cultural heritage as well as boost tourism, the Prime Minister said.
“We call on the central leadership as well as Vientiane, Lao people of all ethnic groups, and residents of Vientiane to join together in accelerating fulfilment of the set goals in order to achieve the planned results,” he added.
The Vice Mayor of Vientiane, Phouvong Vongkhamxao, said the festival features some of Laos’ most iconic and longstanding traditions and is hugely popular with visitors because of the colourful pageantry on display.
“Apart from being a tourist draw, the festival serves to preserve some of the country’s finest traditions and is an annual reinforcement of long-held customs that are dear to us.”
The festival features shows by various troupes, including from the Lao People’s Army, districts, the children’s cultural centre and children’s club, who will stage performances each day.
Mass organisations are raising public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, about environmental preservation, in line with the Vientiane government’s clean and green policy.
Throughout the festival teams of volunteers will be on standby to provide assistance in the event of an emergency.
This year’s festival promises to be yet another vibrant celebration of Lao culture, bringing together both local and international visitors in appreciation of Lao artistry, cuisine, and cultural traditions. - Vientiane Times/ANN
