The temples in Luang Prabang are beautiful every day, but decorated for Boun Lai Heua Fai they are absolutely magical! When I walked into one for the first time, I felt that I had been transported to a fairy land. The festival officially started on a Saturday, and continued through to the parade on Monday. The first night, Saturday, ended up being a little rainy at the end. Sunday was a complete wash-out, with pouring rain and thunderstorms. So disappointing, though I had fun having drinks and dinner with a friend. The weather for the parade on Monday night was perfect. Before the parade reached my end of town, I even had the opportunity to help one of the temples put the lanterns out on the ground and light them. On Tuesday evening, a Facebook post from one of my favorite temples, Wat Pa Phai, alerted me that they were extending the celebration for another night. I quickly gathered up my photo gear, and headed out the door! It was a fabulous evening, the crowds had thinned, people were very respectful, and a peaceful feeling prevailed.
