The Lao New Year, also known as Pi Mai, is Laos’ largest celebration and observed nationwide. It is customarily a time for purification and rejuvenation, but it is also an opportunity for everyone to let loose and party nonstop for three days like only Lao people can. Towns and cities all throughout Laos come alive with street festivals and water fights in addition to the custom of visiting the temple to sprinkle scented water over Buddha statues. Get ready to be fully sprayed with water in any open location – no one is excluded. This actually makes the hottest period of the year more enjoyable. If you are in Laos during this time, the best approach to enjoy the Lao New Year is to unwind and let things happen naturally.

Text BY Jason Rolan
PHOTOGRAPHS BY Phoonsab Thevongsa