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Luang Prabang boat races set for September 4
The World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang will hold its annual boat racing festival on September 4 this year, coinciding with a Buddhist ritual to commemorate the dead. District Information, Culture and Tourism Department Head, Mr Onchan Souvannalith, said the Boun Hor Khao Padap Din festival was held each year to appease the spirits of the deceased. Residents place food offerings at temples and around their house, which they believe will be received by wandering spirits to ensure they remain at peace.
“Luang Prabang district has organised boat races in Hadhien village on August 29 and in Sangkalok village on September 2,” Mr Onchan said. “We have also organised a street fair along Sisavang Road to attract visitors.” Mr. Onchan said the main event of the boat racing festival on the Nam Khan River on September 4 would feature 32 vessels. Last year's race was won by a boat from Noun village representing the province's Prosecutor's Office, while Mr Onchan said his department hoped to better their 11th place achievement from last year.
“This year, 32 boats crewed by villages and government organisations will take part,” he said. “Before starting the competition, we will hold a morning tak baat (alms-giving) ceremony in front of Royal Palace National Museum.” “Luang Prabang welcomes all visitors to the festival, whether they come by road or by plane,” he added.
Source: Vientiane Times
The World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang will hold its annual boat racing festival on September 4 this year, coinciding with a Buddhist ritual to commemorate the dead. District Information, Culture and Tourism Department Head, Mr Onchan Souvannalith, said the Boun Hor Khao Padap Din festival was held each year to appease the spirits of the deceased. Residents place food offerings at temples and around their house, which they believe will be received by wandering spirits to ensure they remain at peace.
“Luang Prabang district has organised boat races in Hadhien village on August 29 and in Sangkalok village on September 2,” Mr Onchan said. “We have also organised a street fair along Sisavang Road to attract visitors.” Mr. Onchan said the main event of the boat racing festival on the Nam Khan River on September 4 would feature 32 vessels. Last year's race was won by a boat from Noun village representing the province's Prosecutor's Office, while Mr Onchan said his department hoped to better their 11th place achievement from last year.
“This year, 32 boats crewed by villages and government organisations will take part,” he said. “Before starting the competition, we will hold a morning tak baat (alms-giving) ceremony in front of Royal Palace National Museum.” “Luang Prabang welcomes all visitors to the festival, whether they come by road or by plane,” he added.
Source: Vientiane Times
