Laos: Boun Khao Phansa
Boun Khao Phansa, Laos's significant Buddhist festival, marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent, a three-month period of reflection, meditation, and monastic retreat. Celebrated across Laos with colourful processions and candle-lit ceremonies, it signifies the start of the rainy season when monks remain within temple confines. During this period, devout Buddhists offer alms to monks and engage in merit-making activities to accumulate spiritual merit. The festival fosters a sense of community and spiritual devotion, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and self-discipline in the Buddhist tradition.