On February 11-12, at Buon Don Suspension Bridge Tourism Center (Buon Tri, Buon Don commune, Dak Lak province), Bunpimay 2569 festival 2026 took place sôi nổi, contributing to tightening Vietnam - Laos friendship and preserving the cultural features of the Lao-Vietnamese community.
According to VNA, with the theme "Cultural Intersection - Strengthening Deep Love", the festival opens up a unique cultural space, attracting a large number of people and tourists. Many traditional rituals of Lao Tet are recreated such as: Xay bat - Tac bat ceremony; New Year's celebration, health worship; Buddha bathing ceremony for peace; Sand tower building ceremony; Lantern releasing ceremony; wrist string for good luck. Water pouring festival (Bun Hot Nam) and parade, procession of Spring queen (Nang Sangkhane) bring a vibrant and unique atmosphere.
Tourists also participate in friendly tourism activities with elephants such as: costumed elephants, photoshoots, buffet parties for elephants, water teasing shows with elephants. The art program "Legend of a Land" recreates the journey of Lao people to Buon Don, contributing to creating cultural diversity for the "Land of Elephants". Besides, there are Lao culinary experiences, Lam Vong dance, and gong exchanges.
Ms. Nguyen Hoang Vi Minh Thuy, a tourist from Buon Ma Thuot ward (Dak Lak), said that this is the second time she has attended Bunpimay in Buon Don. This year, she came early to rent Lao traditional costumes and immerse herself in the festival atmosphere. "The rituals here are very unique, distinctive, and memorable," Ms. Thuy shared.
With H'Buon Pheng Lao, the people of Buon Tri, this year's Bunpimay Tet is organized more large-scale, attracting many tourists. All rituals are aimed at praying for luck, peace, and health. The water throwing festival is a popular activity because it creates a joyful atmosphere and connects the community.
Chairman of Buon Don Commune People's Committee Nguyen Canh Tung said that after the merger, the commune has 15 ethnic groups living together, of which the Lao people have more than 400 people. The organization of the Bunpimay festival creates conditions for people to celebrate the traditional Tet, and is also an opportunity for exchange, preservation and promotion of cultural values.
Bunpimay helps Vietnamese people of Lao origin look towards their roots, preserve traditions, and express their aspirations for a peaceful and happy new year," said Mr. Tung. The festival also contributes to promoting the image of Buon Don, which is rich in identity, friendly and hospitable.
