Thai Buddhists Celebrate New Year in Escondido, CA

April 26, 2003

Source: The San Diego Union Tribune

On April 26, 2003 The San Diego Union Tribune reported that "Thailand's most celebrated festival will have a return engagement [in Escondido, CA] this weekend. For the 13th year, the city will be host for the annual Songkran Festival... Songkran signals the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year... 'We call it a family day, like Thanksgiving for you guys,' said Ven Boonlue Khlongponggat, a Buddhist monk at the Thai Buddhist Temple... ' Water, which is believed to wash away bad luck and nourish a fresh start, plays a central role in the festival. Traditionally, fragrant water is sprinkled over images of Buddha. Family members pay respects to their elders by pouring scented water onto their hands."