VIENTIANE, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The vibrant colors of the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, are lighting up Laos, filling the air with joy, hope, and unity as Chinese and Lao communities celebrate the festival with dragon dances, family reunions, and festive meals.
Many places are decorated with red lanterns and golden ornaments, while local markets are filled with the scent of sticky rice cakes and sweet treats.
Channapha, a shopper at a local market in Vientiane, told Xinhua that preparations are just as important as the festival itself.
"We always make sure to buy the best produce, especially for the dishes that symbolize good luck. It's not just about the food, it's about the excitement of preparing together with our loved ones."
"Beyond food, decorations are a key part of the preparations. We decorate with red, as it symbolizes good luck, while also creating a festive atmosphere in the home," she added.
The Chinese New Year celebration goes beyond usual festivities. It is a time for families to come together and share the joy.
Khanthaphone, a Lao citizen of Chinese descent, told Xinhua, "I remember as a child, my grandmother would give me red envelopes and wish me luck. She passed away nearly five years ago, and when the celebration comes, it brings tears as I miss her deeply."
"For me, Chinese New Year is all about family, and that's what matters most," he said. "My brother studies in China and comes back to Laos once a year to gather with the family for the celebration. We may not all live nearby, but we make sure to come together."
Being surrounded by family and sharing meals is a moment of pure happiness, Khanthaphone added.
As the celebrations continue, Laos is painted in a vibrant mix of red, gold, and joy. Chinese New Year has become more than just a cultural event. It's a moment of pure happiness, accompanied by dragon dances, the sound of drums, and cheerful laughter filling the air.
Nanthanouvong, a 33-year-old resident of Lao capital Vientiane, said that many places are adorned with vibrant red lanterns, while the iconic dragon dances take center stage.
"The dragon dance is my favorite part of the celebration. The energy is contagious, and the drums and the colorful costumes get everyone excited," he said.
This year's Chinese New Year falls on Jan. 29, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. ■
