Laos: 2025 Elephant Festival Dates Announced

The authorities of Xayaburi province, Laos, have officially announced that the 2025 Elephant Festival will take place from February 18 to 24. This event will highlight Lao culture through elephant parades, traditional ceremonies, and lively performances.

Written by Linh Yang (Local expert)

Updated on Feb 13, 2025

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For its 18th edition, the festival will bring together 50 elephants in tribute to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Laos National Day.

The activities will begin on February 18 with a mini-marathon, a traditional ritual to invoke spirits, and elephant rides. The day will conclude with a literary performance in the evening.

>>> Learn more about: Where to see elephants, the soul of Laotian culture?

Throughout the week, visitors will have the opportunity to watch elephant parade rehearsals, enjoy cultural performances by ethnic groups, and explore a market offering local and international products.

➡️ Good to know:

The Elephant Festival, held annually since 2007 in Xayaburi province, Laos, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. This national festival aims to introduce locals and tourists to the importance of elephants—an animal deeply rooted in the traditions, culture, and history of the Land of a Million Elephants. By celebrating the vital role of elephants in Lao life over the centuries, the festival also raises public awareness about their conservation. It actively promotes efforts to preserve and grow the elephant population while protecting this peaceful species from the risk of decline.

The festival’s highlight will be the official opening ceremony on February 22. It will feature a paramotor flight show, hot air balloons, and visits to iconic sites such as the Khy Min and Xang cliffs, as well as the Xayaburi hydroelectric dam.

Other key activities will include the Miss Elephant Festival contest, a merit ceremony dedicated to elephants, various cultural performances, and concerts.