VIENTIANE, June 9 (Xinhua) -- The people of Laos joyously celebrate the Rocket Festival, a vibrant event where rockets are launched into the sky with the belief this will bring good fortune, prosperity, and rain and a bountiful harvest for farmers.

The Rocket Festival is a lively and cherished tradition observed annually throughout the Southeast Asian country at the onset of the rainy season, usually occurring between May and June. The longtime cultural event not only brings benefits to the hosting village but also serves as a source of great enjoyment for all participants.

"This festival is one of the most colorful, entertaining and enjoyable celebrations in Laos and heralds the start of the rainy season. I believe that local people and visitors enjoy the challenge and entertainment it offers," Bounsong, a 42-year-old man living in Vientiane province told Xinhua on Saturday.

"Before the festival, local participants will form teams of keen rocket-builders to construct the best rockets."

Rockets are traditionally made of bamboo stuffed with gunpowder. However, the festival has evolved over time, and today's rockets incorporate materials such as glass or metal piping, he added.

Bounthavy, another resident in Vientiane province, said the Rocket Festival is a great way to display Lao traditions to visitors, and it's a fun activity that the Lao people should sustain.

He also emphasized the importance of safety measures.

"The organizers should warn visitors about their safety when they get too close to the rocket. I think we should seek ways to protect people and property against unfortunate incidents," said Bounthavy.

In addition to the rocket launches, the festival also features colorful parades, traditional performances, and competitions, adding to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, residents and visitors can enjoy various traditional foods during the celebrations.

"It's always lots of fun and there's a great atmosphere when everyone parades his rockets to the launch platform. During this procession, the people cheer loudly and make a wish for their rockets to travel very high," said local resident Phonesak.

"However, the organizers should warn visitors when they get too close (to the rocket launch site) over safety and make sure the event proceeds safely and enjoyably." Enditem

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