Louisiana Lao New Year Festival

05/22/2026

La Pa Quan step by step videos now uploaded to Youtube.

"Bai Is" or Su Quan" rituals dominate the lives of the Lao community from the union of tow people at a wedding, birth of a child, to call back the spirit so the ill can get better, before a major trip or at funerals. At the center of all these ceremonies is a "Pa Quan". Pa Quan is an ornate arrangement consisting of different materials, including banana leaves, flowers, flower buds, blessed cotton strings. Use in Lao animist practices and Baci ritual "invoke the spirit." These were part of workshops funded with support from the Louisiana Folklore Society, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. Much thanks to Vatsana Chanthala and Phanat Xanamane for organizing the workshops. And the Tradition Bearer / Teacher that led the workshops at Wat Thammarattanaram - Palixay Phoumaly.

The steps to make the traditional Lao floral arrangement / altar. Use in Lao animist practices and Baci ritual "invoke the spirit." These were part of worksh...

05/07/2026

Sabaidee everyone,

We would like to formally announce that our temple will be holding an election for a new President. Our current President, Mr. Bouasone Ounechith, has graciously served our congregation for two terms over the past eight years. We are deeply grateful for his dedicated leadership, commitment, and service to our community. His contributions have left a lasting and honorable legacy that will guide future leaders and members of our temple.

Individuals who are interested in running for the position of President are encouraged to contact a member of the board or send us a private message. The deadline to register as a candidate is May 31, 2026.

Candidate Requirements:

Must be an active member of Wat Thammarattanaram for at least four years
Must be 21 years of age or older
Must complete an initial review and interview with the board members
Must be a resident of Louisiana

The election will take place on June 7, 2026.

Voting Requirements:

Must be 18 years of age or older
Must be an active member of Wat Thammarattanaram
Must be present in person to vote
Must be a resident of Louisiana

Active Member:
If you are unsure of your member status, you may complete a membership form and submit it to the temple, preferably on weekends. The deadline to register as a voting member is May 31, 2026.

Thank you, and we appreciate your continued support of our temple community.

05/04/2026

04/25/2026

How the play Clay is made in Southeast Asia for the Sangkhan celebration.

5 likes. "Bangkok News - How to make Songkran powder"

04/13/2026

Sabaidee everyone,

Temple board and LNY festival organizers continue to assess the needs of the 18 individuals injured and are coordinating available resources to assist survivors. We’re grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of support from friends near and far. We are actively receiving and channeling resources to those affected, and remain committed to helping each person on their healing journey.

Additional steps: We will share details soon on where to send donations and how to contribute in meaningful ways. We also plan a Baci Ceremony or Sou Kwan (blessing string) ceremony part of Lao custom for survivors at the temple in the near future, as a compassionate blessing and gesture of communal support. We will provide further information as plans are confirmed.

To all that were harmed and affected. May your path to recovery be blessed with strength, peace, and gentle care. From Wat Thammarattanaram Buddhist Temple and the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival, we send you care, hope, and support.

Please reach out to Louisiana Lao New Year Page or Wat Thammarattanaram if you’d need assistance.

As always, have a blessed one 🙏!

A statement from the temple's board and monks is attached below:

04/11/2026

The lovely Nang Sangkhan ladies before the parade. With over a 1000 votes cast overall this year. The attendees on Friday night chose was #6 Reese Thadsaphone Morgan.

04/11/2026

Congratulations to the parade dance groups! Here are the rankings according to the official judges panel scores.
1. Xangpeuk
2. Lanexang Youth
3. Lanexang

04/08/2026

In response to the tragic event that occurred at the Lao New Year celebration this past weekend, Tree of Life Counseling & Consulting will be offering free crisis sessions for anyone impacted.

Our hearts are with the Lao community, and others affected, as they navigate shock, grief, fear, and the emotional aftermath of this tragedy. No one should have to process something so painful alone.

Our skilled and caring counselors are committed to providing a safe, culturally‑sensitive space for individuals and families who need immediate emotional support. Whether you need grounding, someone to talk to, or help making sense of what you’re feeling — we are here.

If you or someone you know needs crisis counseling, please reach out. Call our office at (337) 703‑2806. 🌳

You are not alone.
Support is available.
We stand with the Lao community. 💚