Lao New Year in Laos ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Lao New Year in Laos and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Lao New Year in Laos and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Lao New Year, or “Songkran” as it is commonly known in Laos, is a celebration of the traditional Lao calendar and is observed annually from April 13th to 15th. The festival marks the end of the dry season and celebrates the beginning of a new year for the Lao people. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate with food, music, and dancing.
The most important part of Lao New Year is the water-splashing ceremony. People of all ages gather around the village to splash each other with water, representing cleansing and purification. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and health for the new year. In addition to the water-splashing ceremony, people also take part in a variety of activities such as parades, boat races, and fireworks displays.
On the last day of Lao New Year, people visit temples to make offerings and pray for good fortune. They also give donations to monks and receive blessings from them. Food is an important part of the celebrations, and families often prepare special dishes to share with one another. Other popular activities during Lao New Year include visiting friends and relatives, playing games, and exchanging gifts. No matter how you choose to celebrate, Lao New Year is a wonderful opportunity to come together and create lasting memories with your loved ones.