We were lucky enough to stumble across this week long gathering just outside of Luang Prabang in Laos in December. Celebrating the abundant harvest, it is an absolute riot of colour, pagaentry and ritual (and fun too of course!).  There’s dancing, a beauty pageant, rides, food, singing and an interesting ball tossing ritual which is apparently a way for potential suitors to show interest in each other.

The Hmong are an ethnic group of people from the mountainous regions of Laos, Thailand, China, Myanmar and Vietnam and there are several tribes that live in Laos, each with their own unique customs and amazing costumes.

It made our kiwi barbecues and New Years parties back home pale somewhat in comparison!