VIENTIANE, Sept. 11 (Xinhua) -- Northern Laos' Luang Prabang province held its annual traditional boat racing festival on Friday, drawing Lao officials, tourists, and large crowds of residents while showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and promoting tourism.
The festival began with traditional religious ceremonies, including alms-giving, before the participating boats gathered along the Nam Khan River for the races. This year, 27 boats are taking part, including 18 traditional boats and nine sports boats from Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Xayaboury provinces, local news website Lao Phattana News reported on Friday.
The annual festival is an important traditional celebration preserved by local communities and reflects their cultural beliefs and reverence for protective spirits, which are believed to safeguard the people and promote the prosperity and well-being of the region.
Beyond the competition, the event helps preserve Luang Prabang's cultural heritage, strengthen community unity, and pass traditional customs on to future generations. ■
