Lao Gold Festival 2026: The second Lao Gold Festival runs 4–6 September at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane Capital, spotlighting Lao gold and jewellery, silk, handicrafts, seminars, a jewellery fashion show, networking, and concerts. Education & culture ties: A new computer room opened at the Vietnamese Language Training Center, boosting Laos–Vietnam cooperation and giving Lao learners better access to Vietnamese study. Regional arts & heritage: ASEAN’s 59th anniversary was marked with music, including Lao Duangden, alongside folk and pop performances. Sports with a Laos link: The ASEAN Armies’ Open Volleyball Tournament in Hanoi featured Lao People’s Army participation, with Vietnam defending the title. Community sport momentum: Vietnam’s “Community Sport Yard” model continues expanding, reflecting the wider regional push for accessible fitness spaces. Tourism cooperation: Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia moved to strengthen tourism collaboration through a ministerial conference and a “One Journey, Three Destinations” plan. Craft & entertainment crossovers: A Lao-themed mention also appears in a global TV/entertainment roundup, while regional cultural exchanges keep feeding the arts calendar.