April 13 to 16 in every year marks Lao New Year (Pee Mai Lao). A bit of history here.

In Laos, Boun Pee mai, the national new year used to be celebrated on the last day of the waning moon in the fifth lunar month, lasting as much as 14 days fixed to 13-16 April.

Everyone gets a week off from work for the ceremonial cleansing away of the old years sins with water. Temples are visited and Buddha's are washed. When this is done the fun part start, and a giant water fight starts which can last for several days. No one is safe from marauding gangs armed with water balloons and high-powered water guns.

For those in Sydney, you can experience a bit of the Laotian culture by heading to:

Beyond Laos - Exhibition

Join us in celebration for the Lao New Year with an exhibition, exotic food and performances at the Lao temple. The exhibition includes a spectacular fusion between contemporary and traditional arts and craft. Laotian bun hairstyles will be transformed into works of art, and fl oral arrangements for Baci Ceremony will welcome and bestow blessings on you for the New Year.

WHEN
Exhibition launch
Sunday 17 April, 2005 (LAO NEW YEAR)
From 11 am

Exhibition date
14 April - 30 April

WHERE
Wat Phrayortkeo Dhammayanaram (Lao Temple)
711-715 Smithfi eld Road, Edensor Park

RSVP
15 April 2005

BOOKINGS
9824 1121 or reception[@]casulapowerhouse.com

FREE ADMISSION

FREE GUIDED TOUR
A cultural guided tour will lead you through the special exhibition at the elaborate Lao temple and Lao New Year Festival full of colour, food and performance during 15-17 April. Bookings essential.

[flyer]

Sabaidee Pee Mai !

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This is trance...
Jose Amnesia - The Eternal (Pulser Remix) / Chicane - Saltwater / Photon Project - Illumination / Gouryella - Tenshi / Altitude - Altitude (SHOKK Remix) / Rank 1 - Airwave / The Thrillseekers - Synaesthesia (En Motion Mix)