Savannakhet: The annual That Ing Hang Festival in Savannakhet Province is set to take place from 30 November to 5 December 2025, with organisers promising a vibrant and engaging celebration aimed at boosting tourism.

According to Lao News Agency, preparations for the event are now ‘almost 100% complete’, as stated by Somphon Vilayvong, Deputy Head of the Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. Efforts are being made to improve parking spaces, access roads to the temple grounds, decorative lighting, security measures, and vendor stall arrangements to ensure a smooth experience for visitors.

The festival will feature exhibitions, craft sales, and cultural performances from the province’s 14 districts and Kaysone Phomvihane City, showcasing local traditions through music, dance, and literature. A major highlight will be the grand wax castle procession on 4 December, which includes a competition for elaborately crafted wax castles made by communities across Savannakhet.

Cultural official Koviset Saysombath mentioned that the event will display local products such as handicrafts, woven textiles, and traditional foods. Evening activities will include retro-style Lam Vong dancing, Long Khuang gatherings, traditional snacks served in Pha Tok trays, Mor Lam performances, and screenings of classic films.

Organisers have expressed that this year’s festival will be ‘more lively and enjoyable’ than previous editions, inviting both Lao and international visitors to join the celebrations, visit the historic temple, and experience Savannakhet’s unique local cuisine.