2 minute read
Mud, Music & Missiles
The Rocket Festival, known locally as Boun Bang Fai, stands as one of Laos' most distinctive celebrations. Taking place during the hottest season before rice planting begins, this centuries-old tradition sees villagers launching homemade rockets into the sky.
In Meuang Feuang, north of Vientiane, visitors can witness this spectacular event firsthand. The festivities begin with blaring speakers pumping molam and loukthong music across communities as locals gather to prepare. The rockets themselves— constructed from bamboo or PVC pipes— are packed with homemade gunpowder mixtures and fitted with fuses. According to Lao belief, these aerial explosives alert the gods to send rain, ensuring bountiful harvests.
Text by: Jason Rolan
Photos by: Phoonsab Thevongsa
More info: Dates have not yet been confirmed, but the Rocket Festival in Meuang Feuang is usually in late May or early June
Getting there: Meuang Feuang is an easy two-hour drive from Vientiane
