Thakhek:Khammouane The province will host its annual End of Buddhist Lent Festival and Boat Racing Festival from October 21-26, 2026, in Thakhek District. The event will feature 31 racing boats, local product exhibitions, religious ceremonies, and a stunning illuminated boat procession.

According to Lao News Agency, the main activities will occur from October 24-26, with over 500 million kip in prize money distributed across five boat racing categories. The organizers anticipate attracting visitors from across Laos and internationally, boosting the province's cultural heritage, tourism, and local economy.

Vice Governor Dedsakda Manikham, head of the organizing committee, noted that preparations began in August to ensure the smooth running of the festival and to offer visitors an authentic experience of traditional Lao culture. Religious ceremonies, including merit-making and offerings to Buddhist monks, will be held on October 21-22 at the city pillar shrine.

The One District One Product (ODOP) trade exhibition will start at 5 p.m. on October 23 near the March 21 Historic Monument, showcasing products from all 10 districts and local businesses.

Boat races taking place from October 24-26 will include teams from Khammouane, neighboring provinces, and international participants. This year's program introduces traditional dugout boats, known as Heua Suang, with competitions for both men and women. Other categories will feature modified formula boats and the Thakhek-Nakhon Phanom Friendship Boat Race.

The opening ceremony on October 24 will highlight a hot-air balloon and paramotor display, followed by men's dugout boat races. Women's races and additional men's competitions will occur on October 25, accompanied by performances from two Heua Seung boats featuring music, singing, and poetry.

On October 26, the festival will culminate with the friendship race between Thakhek and Nakhon Phanom, more men's races, a traditional water-splashing parade, and an award ceremony. The evening will feature the Lai Heua Fai, or illuminated boat procession, starting at 7 p.m., with 13 large illuminated boats showcasing traditional symbols and 2,569 floating lanterns. A fireworks display of 1,000 fireworks will enhance the festive atmosphere along the Mekong River.

Dedsakda extended an invitation to Lao people of all ethnicities and international visitors to attend the festival, urging local residents to welcome guests warmly, ensure public safety, and preserve the cultural heritage for future generations.