PI Mai Lao Is Celebrated In Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Vientiane; April 2026: Lao New Year is widely celebrated festival in Laos. It takes place in April, the hottest time of the year in Laos, which is also the start of the monsoon season. Lao New Year takes place at virtually the same time as the new year celebrations of many countries in South Asia such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, China (Dai People of Yunnan Province), India, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.

Known for lively water splashing, the holiday also involves cleaning homes, visiting temples, and offering blessings. Laotians celebrate for 3 days, Pi Mai, the arrival of spring, the transition from a hot and dry season to a rainy season. Certain rituals are practiced in order to chase away evil spirits and start the year with good karma and surrounded by good spirits.

The first day (Sangkhan Luang) is dedicated to family. People who have left their village usually return to their loved ones to celebrate Pi Mai with them, gathered around a large meal.

The cuisine includes many festive dishes; the young girls share good fish, chicken as well as spring rolls, rice noodles and a plate of salad leaves, not forgetting the traditional sticky rice and exceptionally steamed rice! For dessert, seasonal fruits are served like mangoes or clementine’s but also sour fruits which are very popular.

The traditions of Pi Mai are part of a purification process linked to Buddhism, but all Laotians: Christians, animists celebrate Pi Mai with some adaptations according to their beliefs. One of the rituals practiced is Baci, which takes place during important events in the life of a Laotian. Birds are released from their cages or fish are released into rivers to start the year with a good deed.

The Laotians pour water on each other but also on you! It is a sign of purification which would allow protective spirits to wash away past misfortunes and accompany the new year. For this festive time of year, The dress code for the past few years has been the floral shirt!

The second day (Van Nao), which is the “day of no day” falls between years, symbolising a transitional period and a time for reflection.

The third day (Sang Khan Khuen), is the beginning of the new year! Celebrated with vibrant parades, water throwing, and blessings for good luck and prosperity.

Team Maverick.