Travel to Laos: That Luang festival mixes culture and business

The trade fair associated with the annual That Luang Festival officially opened yesterday in a ceremony attended by government officials and business representatives.

Vice President Bounnhang Vorachit, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad and Vientiane Mayor Sombath Yialiher were among those in attendance.

The trade fair takes place in two venues. The That Luang esplanade accommodates 1,411 booths from October 28 to November 2, while Lao-ITECC with 778 booths is open from October 24 to November 2.

The trade fair is a lively part of the festival, bringing together a wide range of domestic products as devotees come from all over the country to worship at the grand stupa.

Vientiane Vice Mayor Somvandy Nathavong said the festival was a wonderful opportunity to preserve Lao traditions and display the rich and diverse cultural identity of Laos .

On this occasion people of ethnic groups from all over Laos come to worship at this most magnificent of festivals.

Mr Somvandy said the festival would give security units the chance to prove their worth in ensuring safety for everyone and preventing accidents.

Amid a joyful atmosphere, various activities serve to preserve the country's fine traditions.

As happens every year, people take part in a colorful wax castle procession, watch a traditional game of hockey, and process around the stupa in a grand candlelight procession.

This year the festival will give city authorities ideas on how best to celebrate the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as the capital of Laos next year.
http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/Free_That.htm