Happy Bun That Luang!

The stupa of That Luang. Image © Getty Images.

Tonight, the full moon shines on Vientiane - which means it's time for Bun That Luang.

This festival is perhaps the biggest one held in Vientiane, transforming the shrine of That Luang into a hotbed of activity. It kicks off with a morning prayer, and continues for four days with monks and reverent believers circumambulating the golden stupa.

It's a great time to visit Vientiane: to catch the atmosphere, to get a bellyful of authentic Lao food, watch them at play (tee khee, the Lao version of field hockey, is a popular diversion at this time) and to see the Lao people at their cheerful best.

Lao Voices has a short but atmospheric video of the last day of Bun That Luang, when Buddhist monks are given alms by grateful worshipers.

The Lao Cook searches the Vientiane streets during Bun That Luang for authentic roast crispy pork, Lao style.

Lao Pictures has a huge picture gallery of Bun That Luang pics.

Finally, check out our exhaustive list of Holidays in Laos - so you know when to drop by Laos, in time for the next big feast!