On April 25, 2026, Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, presided over the opening of the 2026 Songkran Festival at Wat Dhammagunaram in Utah. The event was attended by Ms. Joy Petro, Mayor of Layton City; Mr. Bob Stevenson, Davis County Commissioner; Lieutenant Kyle Schroeder, representing the Layton City Police Department; and Mr. Viengsay Sundara, President of the Lao Association, among others.

The Ambassador expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the Thai community and highlighted the significance of Songkran. Beyond being Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, Songkran serves as an important occasion for strengthening family bonds and paying respects to elders through the traditional water-pouring ceremony. He also noted that Songkran has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Ambassador commended the people of Utah for their openness and respect for diversity, as well as their generosity and kindness, which contribute to the well-being of the Thai community residing in the state.

On this occasion, the Ambassador presented plaques of appreciation, prepared by Wat Dhammagunaram, to distinguished individuals who have consistently supported the temple. He also took part in the traditional water-pouring ceremony alongside community leaders and local dignitaries, helping to promote Thai cultural heritage.

In addition, the Ambassador hosted a dinner for representatives of the Thai community in Utah. Attendees included Dr. Leenhapong Navaravong, MD, President of the Thai Association of Utah; Mr. Nattapong Kijvakin, Vice President of the Association; and Ms. Arunee Schwab, Chair of Wat Dhammagunaram, as well as Thai students from Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah. He took the opportunity to inquire about the well-being of the Thai community and students in the area, and listened to their views and suggestions on ways the Royal Thai Embassy and relevant Thai agencies could provide further support with the aim of strengthening the Thai community abroad.