Vientiane:The city of Vientiane is gearing up for the annual That Luang Festival and Trade Fair, which is set to take place from November 20 to 24. This festival, celebrated on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, blends traditional Theravada Buddhist practices with trade fairs, musical performances, and public entertainment.

According to Lao News Agency, the festival will reach its peak on November 24, the full moon day, which is marked by significant religious observances. The official schedule for the festival includes several key ceremonies and events leading up to this day.

The festival will commence with an opening ceremony on November 20 at 430 p.m. On November 21, evening cultural gatherings and community celebrations are planned. The recitation of protective auspicious prayers will take place on November 22 at 400 p.m. at Pha That Luang. A traditional wax castle procession will occur on November 23 at 200 p.m., starting from Wat Simuang and moving towards the grand stupa.

The full moon day on November 24 will feature a mass alms-giving ceremony at 700 a.m., a traditional Lao hockey tournament and ball procession at 100 p.m., and a candlelight procession around Pha That Luang at 700 p.m., concluding with fireworks and homage offerings.

In addition to these sacred rituals, the festival grounds will include commercial trade booths, local handicraft displays, and food stalls, drawing thousands of domestic and international visitors to Vientiane.