Minister for Commercial Affairs presided over the buddhist ceremony to celebrate Songkran Thai New Year at Wat Yarnna Rangsee Buddhist Monastery, Virginia

On 16 April 2023, Minister Supawadee Yamkamol, Minister for Commercial Affairs, Royal Thai Embassy, Washington, D.C. presided over the buddhist ceremony to celebrate Songkran Thai New Year at Wat Yarnna Rangsee Buddhist Monastery, Sterling, Virginia, on behalf of Team Thailand in Washington, D.C. Officials and staff from the Office of Commercial Affairs also joined the event.

During the ceremony, there were religious rituals, alms offering with local Thai communities, buddhist preaching, water sprinkle over a statue of Buddha, monks, and the elders. There were also many festival-like activities around the temple, such as Muay Thai demonstration, Thai traditional music and dance performances by students who were taught at the temple, including booths selling Thai food and beverages. The festival was very popular among both Thais and foreigners, who attended in a large number. It was a celebratory way to continue Thai cultures and traditions, showcase the strength of local Thai communities, and promote Thai products in the festival.