On 12 April 2026, H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the UK, and Mrs. Priabthip Krishnamra, spouse, as well as members of the Embassy and Team Thailand in London and their families attended the merit making ceremony on the occasion of Songkran or Thai New Year at Buddhapadipa Temple in London. They also took part in alms-giving and offering food to the sangha.

On this occasion, Ambassador Khrisnamra gave opening remarks for the 2026 Songkran Festival as well as offered Thai New Year well-wishes to over 3,000 Thais, Brits, and foreigners joining the festival, together with Councilor Martin Whelton, Mayor of Merton, and Phra Ratchawithetpanyakhun, Abbot of the temple. Ambassdor Khrisnamra and spouse also visited Thai food and product stalls to give support to Thai vendors and communities in the UK.

Buddhapadipa temple organises Songkran Festival every year. This year’s festival was held between 11-12 April 2026. Highlights of the festival includes Thai traditional musical performances, Thai cultural dances and Songkran beauty pageant contest. Songkran festival at Buddhapadipa Temple are among the most visited Songkran festivals in Europe.