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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 · 56 days left
Start group application
OverviewGalleryProgramStay & pricesTravelDetails

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

Participation & prices

Booking & Payment Terms

Prices

There are three accommodation prices, depending on room type:

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.

Plan your arrival

Travel & Logistics

Vientiane

Full destination guide

Closest airports

  • Wattay International Airport (VTE) — ~4 km (about 10 min)

    Budget airlines serving this airport: AirAsia, VietJet

Train & coach arrival

• Vientiane railway station — Laos–China railway to Luang Prabang

Organised by WOFA

• Airport & port transfers: available on request — share your flight or ferry details and our team will send a quote and coordinate private group transport to your hotel. • Local group coaches: private transport can be booked on request for concerts, performance venues and day trips. • Excursions & guided tours: tailored sightseeing and activities can be arranged for your group with upfront pricing. • All additional services are optional and priced on request, based on your group size and schedule.
Contact WOFA

Getting around

Local buses where operating, taxis and tuk-tuks provide road-based transport.

Practical notes

Allow extra time to reach the railway station outside the city centre. Confirm current airport-bus service and group vehicle arrangements 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.
21–28 Feb 202756 days left
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