North Hollywood : Temple to Host 2-Day Thai New Year Festival

Chanting, dancing, the robing of the Buddha and the release of birds and fish will mark the two-day Songkran Festival--or Thai new year--at the Wat Thai Temple Saturday and Sunday.

The centuries-old celebration offers a chance to reflect on the past, particularly in remembering ancestors, as well as to look ahead and receive blessings of good luck and prosperity, said Sumana Barua, who is coordinating the event for the temple.

The changing of the Buddha’s dressing represents a tribute to elders and respected ones, he said, while releasing the fish and birds symbolizes new beginnings.

The birds also signify “throwing away the suffering and bringing good luck,” Barua said.

Among the scheduled events are an opening ceremony presided over by the Thai consul general, music and dance performances, a Miss Songkran beauty contest, chanting, meditation and a play. Thai food will be served.

“Everyone is welcome,” Barua said. “It is good for us to live in this diverse community, and we would like for everyone to come and join us in celebrating the new year.”

The Songkran Festival, which is free to the public, runs from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

A free shuttle bus will take participants from the parking lot at the Kaiser-Permanente facility at 13652 Cantara St. to Wat Thai Temple at 8225 Coldwater Canyon Ave. in North Hollywood.