Lao New Year takes place at virtually the same time as the new year celebrations of many countries in South Asia such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, China (Dai People of Yunnan Province), India, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.

[3] Water is used for washing homes, Buddha images, monks, and soaking friends and passers-by.

Some people prefer flowers in the water to give a pleasing smell, as well as adding other things, like cologne and perfume.

Sand is brought to the temple grounds and is made into stupas or mounds, then decorated before being given to the monks as a way of making merit.

Sand stupas are decorated with flags, flowers, white lines, and splashed with perfumed water.

Sand stupas symbolize the mountain, Phoukhao Kailat, where King Kabinlaphrôm's head was kept by his seven daughters.

[3] During the daytime many people go to the temple to worship, hoping to have a healthier and happier life in the new year.