Wax Castle Parade at That Luang Festival in Laos
The golden That Luang stupa was vibrant with colour and music on Tuesday as thousands joined the traditional wax castle parade, a key highlight of this year’s That Luang festival in Vientiane.
Symbolism and Decoration
Each wax pyramid was intricately adorned with candles, flowers, and banknotes, representing devotion and the wish for good fortune in the coming year.
Procession Details
The parade began early afternoon at Vat Nongbone. Groups from various districts of the capital carried the beautifully crafted yellow wax pyramids toward the sacred Pha That Luang stupa.
Notable Participants
Among the participants were Minister of Culture and Tourism Mrs. Suanesavanh Vignaket, Governor of the Bank of the Lao PDR Mrs. Bounkham Vorachit, and spouses of other Party and government leaders, showing the event’s religious and cultural significance.
Atmosphere and Audience
Onlookers cheered as participants, dressed in traditional and ethnic attire, moved to the rhythm of gongs and drums across the That Luang esplanade. Many waved Lao flags and took photos while the parade proceeded toward the stupa shining in the late-afternoon sun.
Community Participation
More than 5,000 people joined the parade, including monks, government officials, members of community organisations, students, and others from across the country.
The parade is believed to bring merit to people and their families who assemble the wax pyramids.
Author's summary: The That Luang wax castle parade showcases vibrant cultural devotion, uniting communities in a rich tradition seeking merit and blessings for the upcoming year.