Animist traditions are also very strong in Laos with the belief in traditional spirits being a common cultural tie among the Lao Loum,Lao Theung and Lao Sung although such beliefs are strictly organized according to local traditions.
Collectively the Lao belief in spirits is referred to as Satsana Phi. Phi are the spirits of buildings or territories, natural places, or phenomena; they are also ancestral spirits that protect people, or can also include malevolent spirits. The phi which are guardian deities of places, or towns are celebrated at festivals with communal gatherings and offerings of food. Many Lao will have a spirit house on or near their property which is an important folk custom used to ensure balance with the natural and supernatural world.