Culture & Religion

The province has a long traditional heritage which continues to this day. The most noted festival is Phi Ta Khon, which is celebrated during the period from May to June every year. The festival has its origin in a Buddhist tale, known to Thai people as Vessandara Jataka, the story about the last past life of Lord Buddha. When Vessandara Prince returned to his city after living for a period of time in the jungle as a hermit, the celebration for welcoming the prince was so joyful that spirits emerged to join the event. Loei people imitate the story by holding a celebration procession and wearing locally made and unique ghost masks as they parade and dance along the road.

Another festival related to Buddhism is the Sri Song Luk Stupa Celebration. The event is held during the full moon in May every year. Buddhists take flowers and incense to worship and pray for good fortune. Anyone who carries a charm containing soil from the stupa is said to be protected from danger.

99.2% of the people of Loei are Buddhist, 0.7% are Christain and 0.1% are Muslim.

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