Wat Lao Buddharam

Lao Kitchen★★★★★a month ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Unforgettable Lao New Year Festival Experience 2026 I had the honor of being one of the food vendors at the 2026 Lao New Year Festival hosted by Wat Lao Buddharam, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. Our team drove across six states to participate in what is arguably one of the largest Lao water festivals in the United States. The dedication of the volunteers, organizers, monks, performers, vendors, and attendees was incredible. The festival brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate Lao culture, traditions, food, music, and community spirit. Mother Nature certainly challenged everyone this year. It rained all three days of the festival, and at times the poor drainage in certain areas caused significant flooding. Water rose to nearly knee level around our booth, and we spent much of the weekend soaked while trying to protect our equipment, supplies, and inventory. Despite the difficult weather conditions, the celebration never stopped. The resilience and positive attitude of everyone involved were truly inspiring. What impressed me most was seeing attendees continue to smile, dance, enjoy traditional foods, and participate in the festivities despite the rain. The sense of community and cultural pride was stronger than the weather. The festival grounds offer a beautiful and spacious setting with plenty of room for future growth. As a vendor, I would like to offer a few constructive suggestions that could make future events even better: • Evaluate and improve drainage systems in vendor and high-traffic areas to reduce flooding during heavy rain. • Consider installing temporary drainage channels, gravel walkways, or elevated vendor platforms during festival setup. • Develop a weather contingency plan to help vendors better protect equipment and food operations during severe weather. • Add more covered gathering areas for guests and vendors. • Since the festival is held in Tennessee, it could be fun to include a country music and line-dancing stage alongside the traditional Lao cultural performances. This could create a unique cultural exchange and attract even more visitors while maintaining the festival's Lao identity. Even with the rain, mud, and flooding, we had an amazing time. We met wonderful people, shared our food with thousands of guests, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who worked tirelessly to make this event happen under very challenging conditions. We are already looking forward to returning next year and being part of this incredible celebration again. Sabaidee and see you at Lao New Year Festival 2027! 🇱🇦🙏💦

Denese Morrison★★★★☆6 months ago

Beautiful buildings! Not really a touristy place. More of a spiritual memorial for loved ones that have passed! I would keep a respectful approach to this place.

Leah N★★★★★a year ago

We just happen to visit Nashville on the same weekend as the Lao New Year celebration. This was our first time going here. We didn't expect this place to be as big as it is. There were so many vendors here for food, drinks and other items like jewelry, t shirts and hats. Parking can be tight on the dirt road due to lots of attendees. This event was crowded. There is so much food here. Each vendor prices varies so make sure you look around first. For example, sugarcane is $8 at one place, $10 dollar at another place for the same cup. Overall this place is a great place to go during the Lao new year celebration during memorial weekend. The celebration open from Friday to Sunday and it opens late until 11pm. Admission is $15 cash per person.

stephanie seay★★★★★a year ago

Beautiful experience and will definitely go back again! All the vendors were super friendly and we got to try so many amazing dishes and be blessed.

Tammy London★★★★★3 years ago

This is a very unique, lovely, sacred place. If you also would like to visit just know that you are very welcome! Their gate is open to visitors and they do not judge you for doing so. I spoke to a couple of those working outside and I saw a Monk even working on a tire. Inside the border walls are burials for their families and you will notice everything and anything left for those who have passed on. I drove slowly, and had no music on. My dog and his little girl doggy friend watched out the window without making a sound too. One gentleman was painting a new memorial site. I chose not to photograph him out of respect. I did wave. As long as you show reverence as you would in any cemetery, you are welcome to drive through and see for yourself. If you see someone say hello and if you have a question just ask. People travel from all over the country to visit here apparently. Who knew;)

Sonny Vang★★★★★2 years ago

Hospitality was over the roof, came here for Lao new year, what an experience, pictures was on set up day, not too many people but was very crowded Friday Saturday and Sunday, I mean packed, Love Tennessee

Jason Phelan★★★★★9 months ago

This is a beautiful Lao Buddhist temple that has a great food/farmers market on Sundays and plenty of space.

Nona Liza★★★★★a year ago

Good food and cheaper than other places. I went there on their event day so, there're a lot of vendors and a colorful ceremony. People were kind and welcome.

Dee VanSlyke★★★★★2 months ago

Came here for the New Year's celebration that happens every May. Very friendly people lots of good food and items to look at

Kay Choi★★★★★a year ago

Come visit for Lao new year on last weekend of May. Saturday , Sunday. They can party. All ages are welcome. Eat,drink,dancing ,singing and more.