Houston's Lao New Year Festival 2026 (Apr 10-12)

The Houston community is invited to celebrate Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao), a vibrant three-day cultural festival taking place April 10 to 12, 2026, at Wat Phouthasamakhi Lao (8702 Furay Ave, Houston, TX 77016).

The festival transforms the temple grounds into a lively celebration of culture, food, and community, drawing thousands of attendees each year. This all-ages event is open to the public and welcomes families, friends, and visitors from across Houston.

Admission is $15 at the door on Saturday only, with proceeds supporting the temple’s maintenance, operations, and ongoing community and cultural programs. Parking is free all day Saturday. On Sunday, admission is free, with on-site parking available for $10 inside the gate and additional parking at a nearby soccer field.

*Please note that this is a cash-only event, so attendees are encouraged to bring cash.

• Traditional Buddhist ceremonies, including alms-giving and blessings by monks
• The Nang Sangkhan (Miss Pi Mai Lao Beauty Pageant) and Sunday Parade
• Live cultural performances featuring traditional Lao dance and music
• A wide variety of authentic Lao and Southeast Asian street food
• Sports tournaments will be held, including soccer, pickleball, and basketball
• Family-friendly activities, games, and local vendors
• A lively community water celebration, symbolizing cleansing, renewal, and good fortune for the new year

*Activity times are subject to change.

• Cornhole Tournament (starting at 12 PM)
• Vendors open all day

• Sports Festival (Soccer, Pickleball, Basketball) at 8 AM
• Religious Ceremony (Alms-giving at 9:30 AM)
• Nang Sangkhan (Lao Beauty Pageant) (4 PM – 7:30 PM)
• Sports Awards Ceremony (7:30 PM – 8 PM)
• Vendors open all day

• Nang Sangkhan Parade (1 PM – 2 PM)
• Community celebrations and cultural activities
• Vendors open all day

Lao New Year, or Pi Mai Lao, is a traditional festival celebrated in Laos and by Lao communities worldwide, with celebrations hosted across the United States. Rooted in Buddhist traditions, the holiday centers on renewal, spiritual cleansing, and community connection, brought to life through ceremonies such as alms-giving, along with cultural performances, parades, and shared celebrations.

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