Photo by: Sarina Tran-Herman
Thai, Lao, and Cambodian New Year stories of renewal, resilience, and rootedness
As spring returns, so too does one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved and spirited holidays. From April 13–16, Thai, Lao, and Cambodian communities around the world celebrate the new year through Songkran (Thai), Boun Pi Mai (Lao), and Choul Chnam Thmey (Khmer). Timed with the shift from the dry season to the rains, it’s more than a seasonal reset – it’s a time for cleansing, connection, and coming home to oneself.
Through stories of blessing ceremonies, family recipes, traditional music, digital arts, and digital storytelling, four Southeast Asian voices from Thai, Lao, and Cambodian backgrounds share what their New Year celebrations mean to them.
Lao New Year: Water, woven threads, and coming home to self
Photo by: Sarina Tran-Herman
Sarina Tran-Herman (she/her) is a Lao-Vietnamese American based in Columbus, Ohio. She is a clinical therapist and content creator who shares stories about her Lao heritage and upbringing.
Her Lao heritage has always been rooted in family, resilience, and ritual.
“My family spends the weekend at the temple making boun, or merit. We pour water over Buddha statues and each other to wash away bad luck and welcome the new year. Everyone wears vibrant, handwoven silks and scarves. It’s such a beautiful reminder of where we come from.”
Photo by: Sarina Tran-Herman
One of the most sacred parts of Lao New Year for Sarina is the Baci Ceremony, a gathering of family and friends who tie white cotton strings around each other’s wrists to bless one another with luck, protection, and peace.
“The ceremony reminds us of the importance of unity and intention. It’s more than tradition; it’s about feeling whole, connected, and grounded.”
Photo by: Sarina Tran-Herman
Sarina, who is in an interracial marriage, says one of her most cherished memories is…
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