VIENTIANE, Feb 23 (NNN-KPL) – The annual Elephant Festival in 2025, officially opened yesterday, with 50 elephants leading the festivities, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The annual festival took place in the northern province of Xayaboury, from Feb 18 to 24 (tomorrow), to preserve the nation’s rich cultural heritage, support elephant conservation, and attract tourists to the province.
Participated by Vice President of Laos Bounthong Chitmany, the opening ceremony kicked off with various activities, including ethnic groups’ cultural showcases, an elephant parade, circus and painting.
Khounkham, a 19-year-old shop assistant in the province, said, “I remember being told by the elders from my young age that, elephants symbolise our strength and unity. This year’s festival is especially meaningful as it honours both our annual tradition and the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.”
“Elephants have always been part of our heritage. Elephant pictures are seen in textiles, crafts, and temples,” said Sing, a 30-year-old resident of Xayaboury province.
Soutthipanya, a 25-year-old student from the southern Lao province of Savannakhet, shared his excitement about attending the festival, saying, “This is my first time seeing so many elephants in one place, and it’s truly amazing.”
“Thinking about the symbolism of the 50 elephants to commemorate Laos’ 50th anniversary makes me so proud to be part of the event. It’s incredible to see the country celebrate this milestone with such a beautiful display of tradition.”
Each year, the Elephant Festival attracts a large number of tourists to Xayaboury, where visitors can witness the majestic elephants, trained and led by their mahouts.
Xayaboury province, some 170 km north-west of the Lao capital, Vientiane, has many attractions, including 29 officially designated nature-based attractions, 12 cultural sites, and six places with historical associations.– NNN-KPL
