Lao New Year 2026

On April 19, we celebrated Laotian New Year at St. Thomas of Canterbury church. The Laotian community blended their Lao culture with their Catholic faith for a beautiful celebration. Mass was held at 8 AM followed by traditional dancing, the baci (thread tying ceremony), and the feasting in the social hall. 

Thank you to Fr. Thien Nguyen, SVD; Fr. Paul Schneider, OFM Conv. (former pastor); Pastor Fr. Alejandro Lopez, OFM Conv.; and Deacon Joseph for celebrating the Mass. Accompanying the wonderful Vietnamese choir was Fr. Thomas Fetz, OFM Conv. on the flute.

Things You See at Lao New Year

WATER
Water is the most significant symbol of Lao New Year. It signifies the washing away of the old, bad luck, or of sins. At Mass, we had the Sprinkling Rite with Easter Water.

HAIR BUNS
Women often wear their hair in a bun with head jewelry. Gold beads can be wrapped around the bottom of the bun and dok mai wai (gold metal flower hair pins) on top.

BACI (THREAD BRACELTS)
Usually, an elder will preside over the baci ceremony although anyone may tie a string to another's wrist to wish them good health and fortune.

PA BIENG (SASH)
This traditional sash is often worn for new years and traditional Lao dancing. The cloth is draped over left shoulder to be on the same side as the heart.

PAK WAN
The pa kwan is an elaborate cone-shaped centerpiece which holds all the blessing threads. Traditionally made of banana leaves, they are the centerpiece of the celebrations.

SAHT (WOVEN RUG)
The saht is a multipurpose flat-woven reed rug used for just about any activity on the floor. It is a common fixture in Laotian homes.

​*Adapted from laosinthehouse.com.