On 14 April, Mr. Nanthapol Sudbanthad, Director of Thailand Board of Investment, New York Office, and his spouse Mrs. Suthida Sudbanthad, participated in the Buddhist ceremony to celebrate Songkran Thai New Year at Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram, Elmhurst, New York, on behalf of Team Thailand in New York. 

During the ceremony, Mr. Nanthapol joined in the Thai New Year Parade alongside Ms. Somjai Tapaopong, Consul General at the Consulate General, New York and other members of Team Thailand. There were religious rituals, alms offerings with local Thai communities, Buddhist preaching, and sprinkling water over a statue of the Lord Buddha. There were also many festival-like activities around the temple, such as Miss Songkran competition, the playing of Thai traditional music, and dance performances. There were also booths offering Thai food and beverages to all participants. The festival was very popular among both Thais and foreigners, who attended in large numbers. It was a celebratory way to highlight Thai cultures and traditions, and showcase the contributions of the local Thai communities in New York.