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For updates:

• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/vatthanathamlao
• Facebook event page: Downtown Merced Lao New Year Celebration 2026

Lao New Year, called Pii Mai Lao, follows the traditional solar calendar and is typically observed in mid-April. The festival marks the transition from the dry season to the monsoon and is also known as the Water Festival. It is a sacred time of renewal--washing away the past, offering blessings to elders, and beginning the new year with clarity, gratitude, and purpose.

In the United States, Lao New Year celebrations often extend into May, allowing communities like Merced to gather at meaningful times. The May 16 celebration reflects this extended season, bringing people together in shared cultural spirit and connection.

The Downtown Merced Celebration features a parade with a float dedicated to Nang Sangkhan, the goddess who appears on the last of the year to lead us into the new year. Nang Sangkhan will be one of 7 sister goddesses, depending on the day of the week that the last day falls on.

This year, the last day of the year was April 14th. So, Nang Sangkhan for this year is Nang Haksa Thevi, who represents Tuesday. Each Sangkhan goddess carries a special object in each hand. The Tuesday goddess carries a trident in her right hand and a bow in her left hand. She rides a boar as her mount.

Each year, we have between 13-15 food vendors to bring you a delicious variety of cuisines, but mostly Lao food. If you haven't tried Lao food before, or a big fan who hasn't been able to find any in the area, this is where you want to be! The food vendors will be able to sell as soon as they receive their health department certicate, which could be as early as 8am.

In addition to the food vendors, we also have over 20 merchandise and nonprofit vendors bringing you unique gifts and helpful information.

In the last several years, the Merced City Fire Department has brought their firetruck to support us by way of a "water blessing." The firetruck will return this year. We schedule this part after the cultural performance.

Can you dance for 4-and-a-half hours? That is what we have for you after the cultural performances. Get your dancing shoes on or take them off and dance until closing.

So, come join us for one of the largest celebrations in Downtown Merced.