If you are planning to visit Laos in 2024, you might want to know when the public holidays are. Laos is a country with rich culture and traditions, and many of its holidays are based on the Buddhist calendar. Here are some of the major public holidays in Laos 2024 that you should not miss.
Table of Public Holidays in Laos in 2024
| Holiday Name | Date | Description |
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebrates the first day of the year with family gatherings and gift exchanges. |
| International Women's Day | March 8 (Women only) | Honors women's achievements in various fields. Women receive flowers and gifts. |
| Lao New Year | April 13-15 | Marks the transition from dry to rainy season. Celebrated with water splashing, temple visits, and cultural performances. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Recognizes workers' rights and their contributions to the country. Workers engage in rallies and parades. |
| Children's Day | June 1 (Children only) | Celebrates the joy of childhood and raises awareness of children's rights. Kids receive gifts and participate in activities. |
| Lao Women Union's Day | July 20 (Women only) | Commemorates the founding of the Lao Women Union, emphasizing women's roles in society. Women attend various events. |
| Boat Racing Festival | October 24 (Vientiane only) | Traditional boat race on the Mekong River, showcasing racers' skills. Accompanied by cultural shows and stalls. |
| That Luang Festival | November 1-2 | Religious festival at That Luang stupa involving processions, offerings, and cultural celebrations. |
| National Day | December 2 | Marks the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Celebrated with patriotic events and the prominent display of the national flag. |
Laos Public Holidays - Explored!
New Year's Day
The first day of the year is a public holiday in Laos, as well as in many other countries. It is a time to celebrate the new beginnings and hope for a prosperous year ahead. People usually spend the day with their families and friends, exchanging gifts and greetings.
International Women's Day
March 8 is a public holiday for women only in Laos. It is a day to honor the achievements and contributions of women in various fields, such as politics, education, health, and social welfare. Women usually receive flowers and gifts from their husbands, sons, or colleagues on this day.
Lao New Year
Lao New Year, also known as Songkran or Pi Mai Lao, is the most important festival in Laos. It falls on April 13-15, according to the lunar calendar. The holiday marks the end of the dry season and the start of the rainy season. It is also a time to wash away the bad luck and sins of the past year and welcome the new year with joy and blessings. People celebrate by splashing water on each other, visiting temples, making merit, offering food to monks, cleaning their houses, and enjoying cultural performances.
Labour Day
May 1 is a public holiday in Laos, as well as in many other countries. It is a day to recognize the rights and dignity of workers and their role in the economic and social development of the country. Workers usually participate in parades, rallies, or meetings to express their demands and grievances.
Children's Day
June 1 is a public holiday for children only in Laos. It is a day to celebrate the innocence and happiness of children and to raise awareness about their rights and welfare. Children usually receive gifts and treats from their parents, teachers, or organizations. They also enjoy various activities, such as games, sports, art, or music.
Lao Women Union's Day
July 20 is a public holiday for women only in Laos. It is a day to commemorate the founding of the Lao Women Union in 1955. The union is an organization that aims to promote the status and role of women in society and to protect their interests and rights. Women usually attend ceremonies, workshops, or exhibitions on this day.
Boat Racing Festival
The Boat Racing Festival is a local holiday in Vientiane only. It falls on October 24, according to the lunar calendar. The festival is held on the Mekong River near That Luang temple. It is a traditional event that showcases the skills and teamwork of boat racers from different villages or organizations. The festival also features cultural shows, food stalls, and carnival games.
That Luang Festival
That Luang Festival is one of the most significant religious festivals in Laos. It falls on November 1-2, according to the lunar calendar. The festival is held at That Luang stupa, which is considered to be the most sacred monument in Laos. The festival involves a grand procession of monks, officials, and devotees who pay homage to the stupa and offer flowers, candles, incense, and money. The festival also includes fireworks, music, dance, and trade fairs.
National Day
December 2 is a public holiday in Laos that marks the end of the monarchy and the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in 1975. The holiday is celebrated with patriotic ceremonies, speeches, parades, and cultural performances. The national flag and emblem are displayed prominently on this day.
Visit Laos in 2024!
These are some of the public holidays in Laos 2024 that you can look forward to if you visit this beautiful country. You will have a chance to experience its rich culture and history firsthand and to join its friendly people in their celebrations.
Laos Public Holiday
When is New Year's Day celebrated in Laos?
New Year's Day is celebrated on January 1 in Laos. It is a time for new beginnings and is observed with family gatherings and exchange of gifts.Is International Women's Day a public holiday for everyone in Laos?
No, International Women's Day on March 8 is a public holiday only for women in Laos.What is the significance of Lao New Year?
Lao New Year, from April 13-15, marks the transition from the dry to rainy season. Celebrations include water splashing, temple visits, and cultural performances.How do Laotians celebrate Labour Day?
Labour Day on May 1 is recognized by worker parades, rallies, and meetings to voice demands and concerns.Who celebrates Children's Day in Laos?
Children's Day on June 1 is a public holiday specifically for children. They receive gifts and partake in various activities.What is Lao Women Union's Day?
Celebrated on July 20, it commemorates the founding of the Lao Women Union in 1955, which promotes women's rights and interests.Is the Boat Racing Festival observed throughout Laos?
No, the Boat Racing Festival on October 24 is a local holiday observed only in Vientiane.Where is the That Luang Festival held?
The That Luang Festival, celebrated on November 1-2, is held at the That Luang stupa, a sacred monument in Laos.What does National Day in Laos signify?
National Day on December 2 commemorates the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in 1975, marking the end of the monarchy.How can tourists experience the culture during these holidays?
By joining local celebrations, attending ceremonies, and participating in cultural events associated with these holidays.