Pha Thāt Luang dates back to the 16th century, translates as "Great Sacred Stupa." It is the Laos’ national symbol and the country's most important religious monument. The site is sacred to the Lao people and the stupa's tip is believed to enshrine a relic (The breastbone) of the Buddha.

Traditionally, people from all over Laos congregate to celebrate the occasion, with days of religious ceremony followed by days of daytime and nighttime festivities. The people's procession begins at Wat Si Muang in the city center and makes its way to Pha Thāt Luang. People make offerings to the monks to accumulate merit for rebirth into a better life.

The religious part concludes as the people, carrying incense and candles as offerings, circle Pha That Luang three times in the Buddha's honor. (In buddhist tradition of circumambulating 3 times, anyone or anything of veneration is always towards your right, to show devotion, pay tribute, cultivate your mind, and accumulate merit.)

Usually in Vientiane, festival entertainment includes music, both traditional and popular, as well as dramatic performances.