September - BounKhaoSalak Year 2011

Rituals and festivals, whether they occur once a day or once a year, convey the spirit and essence of a culture, identifying what is unique to a locality. In Luang Prabang, the ritual cycle is dominated by Thervada Buddhist customs and traditions, integrated with tributes paid to the animistic spirits (Phi) of the land and water. Because it is the traditional center of the region in Laos and the seat of the former royal family, annual festival.

Held on the full moon, this festival involves the giving of offerings to a specific monk (decided by a lottery system). Offerings include daily necessities such as books, pen, sugar, coffee and cigarettes. Laypeople also give tung peng (wax flower candles) to the monks. This ritual brings merit to the givers.