Kayin New Year is one of the major holidays celebrated by the Karen people. The Karen, also known as Kayin or Kariang, are the third-largest ethnic population in Myanmar accounting for about 7% of the population.

Originally from central Asia, the Karen people arrived in what is now known as Myanmar (Burma) about 3,000 years ago. 

Over the years, many Karens have adopted other religions such as Buddhism and Christianity, though this new year is more agricultural than religious in nature. 

The rice harvest is completed before Pyathoe, and according to Karen traditional religious practice, there must be a celebration for the consumption of the new crop.  

It is also the time to divine the date for commencement of the next crop. 

Typically, this time of year is also when new houses are built, and it is custom to celebrate the completion of a new dwelling.