About the Event
The That Luang Festival at Wat Pa Lao Buddhadham recreates key elements of this sacred tradition for the Lao diaspora community. The celebration begins with a solemn morning alms-giving ceremony where monks receive special offerings while circumambulating a replica of the That Luang stupa. This is followed by a "wax castle" procession where elaborately carved beeswax sculptures representing temples, stupas, and mythical creatures are ceremonially presented. Throughout the day, the temple grounds transform into a vibrant cultural fair featuring traditional Lao music, dance performances, and demonstrations of traditional crafts. Religious activities include circumambulation of the stupa with offerings of flowers, candles, and incense; group meditation sessions; and special chanting ceremonies. The festival culminates with an evening candlelight procession where participants circle the stupa three times while holding candles, incense, and lotus flowers—symbolizing respect for the Triple Gem of Buddhism (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha). The atmosphere combines profound spiritual devotion with joyful celebration of Lao cultural heritage.
Requirements
- Morning alms-giving begins at 09:00 AM; festival activities continue throughout the day
- Dress in traditional Lao clothing if possible, especially sinh for women
- Bring offerings for the morning alms-round: food, candles, incense, flowers
- Women should place offerings in the monks' bowls without direct physical contact
- Prepare three sets of offerings (candles, incense, flowers) for the evening circumambulation
- Families are encouraged to bring children to experience this important cultural tradition
- Those with knowledge of traditional Lao arts may be invited to demonstrate or perform
- Food vendors will be present, but bringing a dish to share is welcomed
- Photography is permitted throughout most activities
- Be prepared for both contemplative religious ceremonies and festive cultural celebrations
- Consider bringing a small mat or cushion for sitting during ceremonies
This significant festival welcomes all community members and visitors interested in experiencing the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of Laos. By participating in the That Luang Festival, the community preserves vital connections to Lao heritage while creating merit through devotional practices that honor the Buddha and his teachings.
History of the Event
That Luang Festival honors one of the most sacred Buddhist monuments in Laos—the golden That Luang stupa in Vientiane, believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha. This festival dates back over 450 years and commemorates the original construction of That Luang stupa in the 16th century by King Setthathirath when he established Vientiane as the capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom. According to tradition, the stupa was built on the site of an even older temple dating to the 3rd century BCE, supposedly housing a Buddha's breastbone brought by Indian missionaries. The festival represents a profound expression of Lao national and religious identity, combining Buddhist devotion with celebration of Lao cultural heritage. For Lao communities worldwide, this festival maintains connection to their spiritual and cultural roots, even when celebrated far from the original That Luang stupa.