The Boat Racing Festival in Laos is celebrated on the 15th day of each lunar month, typically in October, and is prominently observed in Vientiane. This festival occurs the day after the end of Buddhist Lent and features boat races that take place over a three-month period during the Lent season. The races usually start around midday and conclude by sundown, with the largest and most significant races occurring on Fa Ngum Road along the Mekong River. Traditional racing boats, crafted from a single tree and accommodating around 50 rowers, are revered and cleaned prior to the event. The festival includes various categories of races, including those for men and women, with trophies and cash prizes awarded by high-ranking officials. Leading up to the races, streets are filled with enthusiastic fans and vendors selling food, beverages, and clothing, creating a lively atmosphere.