Amarillo Hosts Laotian New Years Celebration

The Laotian New Year celebration is a huge event in Amarillo. It is also known as "Pi Mai." I've heard about the celebration but never have attended it. I was invited out this year to attend their New Year's celebration and it was a very exciting experience.

Traditionally the festival lasts for 3 days from April 14th to the 16th. Here in Amarillo they celebrate at their temple located off the Fritch Highway. One of the coolest things Laotians do during this celebration is have a huge water fight. The water-soaking stands for blessings of long life and peace. They were also smearing and throw shaving cream at each other, which is also a sign of blessings.

There were also many food vendors that cooked cuisine from Laos. Everything from noodles, rice, meatballs on a stick, to even grasshoppers... which were very tasty! They had great live entertainment and dancing throughout the day.

Next year I highly recommend you check out the Laotian New Year's celebration!