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X INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE CELEBRATION “LAND OF A MILLION ELEPHANTS – LAN XANG” 2027

Destination
Vientiane, Laos
Dates
21–28 Feb 2027
Length
8 days · 7 nights
Apply by
18 Dec 2026
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Overview

The festival

X International Folklore Celebration “Land of a Million Elephants – Lan Xang” 2027

The celebration takes place in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, on the banks of the Mekong River. Laos is known for its impressive mountains, Buddhist temples, ethnic diversity and rich cultural heritage preserved through generations.

The historical name Lan Xang, meaning “Land of a Million Elephants,” refers to the ancient Lao kingdom and represents strength, wisdom and the national identity of the Lao people.

Vientiane combines traditional Buddhist heritage with French colonial architecture and modern city life. Its attractions include the golden Pha That Luang stupa, Patuxai, local markets, parks and cultural institutions.

The festival promotes friendship and cultural exchange between nations through folklore, traditional music, dance and other forms of cultural expression. Participants can present their heritage, exchange creative ideas, meet performers from different countries and establish international cultural connections.

Program

Day by day

Sunday 21 February

Arrival

  1. —

    Arrival culture groups at Wattay Airport, Laos meet and greet delegations, after emigration procedures travel to hotels, meeting with organisers of festival.

Stay & prices

Accommodation packages

Price includes

  • 3-star hotel accommodation.
  • Daily breakfast.
  • Festival organization and implementation.
  • Three scheduled performances for each participating group.
  • A diploma for every participant.
  • A stage equipped with sound and lighting.
  • Cultural workshops, exhibitions, lectures and films.
  • An official group photo before departure.
  • Festival marketing expenses.
  • Wattay International Airport–hotel–airport transfers, with arriving groups met at the airport.
  • Free accommodation for one group leader when the group has at least 25 people.
  • Some refreshments during festival performances.

Not included

  • International flights.
  • Travel and medical insurance, which participants must arrange and pay for.
  • Domestic transfers not explicitly included.
  • Optional additional services.
  • Optional guided excursion to Luang Prabang, payable separately.
  • Optional guided excursion to Vang Vieng, payable separately.
  • Lunches and dinners, except where the festival program specifically provides refreshments or another meal.

Triple, double and single rooms are available. Breakfast is served approximately 07:00–10:00.

Booking & Payment Terms

Prices

There are three accommodation prices, depending on room type:

  • Triple room: EUR 300 per person.
  • Double room: EUR 350 per person.
  • Single room: EUR 400 per person.

Application & Payment

  • Submit the official application form before 18 December 2026. Participation is subject to approval.
  • After approval, a 10% guarantee/advance payment is required and will be deducted from the final amount due.
  • The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 60 days before arrival.

Before you go

Rules, excursions & practical details

Participation

Eligibility

  • Cultural and folklore groups from Europe and other countries worldwide may apply.
  • Eligible participants include folk dance ensembles, traditional instrumental groups, music groups, folklore singing groups and performers presenting traditional stories, rituals and other forms of cultural heritage.
  • Participants must be at least 12 years old.
  • The maximum group size is 40 people.

Group Responsibilities

  • Bring a small traditional gift for cultural exchange and your national flag.
  • Have a clearly visible sign or panel displaying the group's name.
  • Provide a short history or description of the ensemble, photographs, video material and other promotional materials.
  • Take part in cultural-exchange activities such as workshops, lectures and exhibitions.

Visa & Invitations

Once the application has been received and the advance payment completed, the organizer will provide an official invitation letter confirming the group's participation.

Performance & Stage

  • Each group should prepare a free-choice performance lasting up to 20 minutes.
  • Groups must also participate in the opening and closing ceremonies, preparing a presentation of their country lasting approximately 5 minutes.

Excursions

Scheduled sightseeing and cultural visits offer opportunities to discover Vientiane and Lao culture:

  • Exploration of the Mekong River bank and local market.
  • A half-day visit to the Lao Art Museum.
  • A Vientiane city tour.
  • A visit to the Lao People’s Army and History Museum.
  • A photo session at Patuxai.
  • A visit and rehearsal at a traditional Lao silk residence.

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21–28 Feb 2027Applications open
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