The celebration is known as "Bun Bang Fai" (bun means "festival" in Laos) and the original purpose was to guarantee good crops by requesting rain to their God, Phaya Thaen, and thus marking the coming of their rainy season. Back in ancient times, the land was often dry so growing rice was difficult. Bun Bang Fai goes back to when the Laotians believed in many gods. They would fire rockets in hopes of persuading these Gods to send the rain they need for the rice harvest. So, the rocket was seen as an important (and instant) way to communicate with the gods, rather than the traditional prayer or sacrifice custom. It also provided people with a reason to get together during a time when the weather makes work impossible.