The International New Year's Day in Laos, known as Phoun Pi Mai, holds a significant place in Laotian society. While Laos has its own traditional New Year (also known as Pi Mai) which aligns with the Buddhist Calendar, celebrated in mid-April, the International New Year on January 1st is also widely recognized and celebrated. Like most places around the world, January 1st marks the beginning of a new Gregorian calendar year in Laos.
Celebrations on International New Year's Day in Laos are a mix of modernity and tradition. The people in urban areas and bigger cities of Laos, like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, usually celebrate the International New Year in a relatively westernized way with parties at nightclubs, family get-togethers, and firework displays. In these cosmopolitan areas, Lao people also participate in countdown events on the New Year's Eve, as they welcome the new year with much joy and enthusiasm.
In contrast to the cities, the International New Year's Day in rural areas of Laos is more subdued but still holds significance. People visit local temples for prayer and reflection — a symbolic gesture to welcome the new year in a peaceful and humble manner. Sometimes, they also celebrate with small family gatherings with traditional food and drinks. Regardless of the location, the International New Year's Day in Laos is generally seen as a time of renewal, where old grudges are let go and a fresh start is embraced.