Tuesday 7 October 2025

The days of the full moon is called Van Sin Ngiae 15 kham, holiday especially for all manual workers and those whose job can disturb by noise. These days we will avoid visiting artisan villages if we want to observe or participate in traditional activities.

On that day, more locals will join the Morning Alms.
Before participating, we recommend to read the Rules to respect for this unique cultural/religious tradition.

In the morning of the Van Sin Ngiae, the search for bonzes is marked by an influx more massive than usual of faithful. The bonzes themselves are more likely to leave the temple which gives the ritual a special intensity, even more in recent years with the influx of Thai visitors at certain times of the year for some Buddhist festivals.

After three months restricted to their temples, learning dharma and practicing meditation, the Buddhist monks once again return to their social duties and are welcomed with offerings of food and gifts. For three months, it was the rainy season, the period of calm in Laos (no wedding, no parties except the religious one).

This is the end of Buddhist Lent, it’s also time for another big celebration, the last boat race that takes place in Xieng Ngeun, 30km from the centre town.

In many countries, Teachers’ Days are intended to be special days for the appreciation of teachers; World Teachers’ Day is celebrated across the world on October 5. Ever since the importance of teachers has been recognized by UNESCO, by adopting the “Recommendation concerning the status of teachers”, World Teachers’ Day has been celebrated annually. This includes celebrations to honor the teachers for their special contribution in a particular field area or the community in general.

In Laos, the date is the 7th October. This day is holiday, the schools make a party with students, teachers of course, and villagers.