Wax Castle Parade Showcases Colour and Devotion at That Luang Festival in Laos
VIENTIANE: On Tuesday, November 4, the golden That Luang stupa was alive with colour and music as thousands participated in the traditional wax castle parade, a stunning highlight of this year's That Luang festival.
Traditional Procession of Devotion
The vibrant procession began in the early afternoon at Vat Nongbone. Groups from various districts of the capital carried meticulously crafted yellow wax pyramids toward the sacred Pha That Luang stupa. Each wax castle was skillfully decorated with candles, flowers, and banknotes, symbolizing devotion and hopes for good fortune in the year ahead.
Prominent Participants and Cultural Significance
Among the participants were high-profile figures such as Minister of Culture and Tourism Suanesavanh Vignaket, Governor of the Bank of the Lao PDR Bounkham Vorachit, and spouses of other party and government leaders. Their presence highlighted the event’s dual role as a religious and cultural celebration.
Festive Atmosphere and Community Spirit
Onlookers cheered as people dressed in traditional and ethnic clothing walked to the rhythmic sounds of gongs and drums across the That Luang esplanade. Many attendees waved Lao flags and captured photos as the parade progressed toward the gleaming stupa under the late-afternoon sun.
"Devotees carry ornamental wax castles to the Pha That Luang stupa during a grand parade at the That Luang Festival." – Vientiane Times/ANN
Overall, the wax castle parade remains an expressive act of faith and cultural pride that unites communities during the That Luang festival.
Author’s Summary: The That Luang festival’s wax castle parade in Vientiane draws thousands, blending rich tradition, cultural unity, and spiritual devotion in a vibrant and joyous celebration.