Cuz monks gotta eat too. LAist was at the Wat Thai Los Angeles yesterday to take part in a New Year's Day tradition; offering thanks and support to the buddhist temple which uses this day to collect operating funds and distribute blessings. This is not to be confused with Taleung Sok Day, which is the Thai New Year according to the zodiac calendar. That day (April 15) is marked by the most major Thai festival, Songkran (April 13).

On January 1st, many Thai and buddhist folk venture out to NoHo with dry goods and supplies to offer to the monks, who in addition collect fees to operate things such as power and water all year long.

Many delightful photos were taken. More to see after the jump.