By Suzanne Levy for LAist
Originally published on April 9, 2026
Topline:
Head to the festival of Songkran, Thai New Year, at Wat Thai in North Hollywood this weekend, Saturday and Sunday. It’s the largest Buddhist temple in L.A. and also one of the biggest Songkran festivals in the U.S. Expect Thai music, Thai dancing, traditional water blessings, the building of sand pagodas and, of course, delicious food.
What’s on offer: The temple’s Thai food court is a must-visit for many during regular weekends, when a large collection of food vendors set up stalls around the temple, similar to what you’d see in Bangkok. Expect this and more at the festival. We’re told you should try the Thai gelato. The temple itself is also beautiful.
When and where: The temple is at 8225 Coldwater Canyon Ave., North Hollywood. There’s additional parking at the Kaiser Permanente in Panorama City with a free shuttle to the festival. The temple is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. The opening ceremony starts at 1 p.m. Saturday.
