The Songkran Festival is a traditional Thai New Year celebration that takes place annually from April 13th to April 15th. It is a national holiday in Thailand and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and passion throughout the country.
During the Songkran Festival, people participate in traditional rituals such as water pouring over Buddha statues and the
hands of elders to ask for blessings and forgiveness. The festival is also known for its water fights, with people splashing water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and renewal.
The official opening ceremony for the Songkran Festival is on April 13th in major cities of Thailand. However, the holiday can extend beyond the official three days, with celebrations and festivities lasting 5-10 days or more in some places.
If you plan to visit Thailand during the Songkran Festival, be prepared for large crowds, traffic congestion, and plenty of water splashing. It is also advisable to protect your belongings, as water fights can sometimes get rowdy and result in lost or damaged possessions.
Songkran Festival in the North East of Thailand
In Isan, the Songkran Festival is celebrated enthusiastically and often accompanied by traditional dances, music, and food. One of the most popular events during the festival is the Miss Songkran beauty pageant, which attracts contestants from all over the region.
Another unique aspect of the Songkran Festival in Isan is the tradition of building sand stupas, miniature versions of Buddhist temples made of sand. These sand stupas are often decorated with colourful flowers and incense and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
In addition to these traditional customs, the Songkran Festival in Isan is also known for its water fights, with people splashing water on each other to symbolize cleansing and renewal. The festival is a time for people to let loose and have fun and is an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience Thailand’s rich culture and traditions.
Songkran in Tourist Destinations in Thailand
Songkran is celebrated in popular tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. In these areas,
the festival is typically marked by large-scale water fights and street parties, and it is one of the busiest and most lively times of the year.
In Bangkok, the Songkran Festival is celebrated in various locations across the city. Silom Road and Khao San Road are the most popular water fights and festivities spots. Parades, traditional ceremonies, and a huge water fight on the famous Patong Beach mark Phuket’s festival.
In northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its elaborate Songkran celebrations, which include religious ceremonies, beauty pageants, and colourful processions. The city also hosts a massive water fight, which takes place in the old city moat and attracts thousands of locals and tourists.
In Pattaya, the Songkran Festival is celebrated with a huge water fight and a series of cultural events, including traditional Thai dances and live music performances. The festival is a major attraction for visitors to the city, and many hotels and resorts offer special packages and promotions during the holiday period.
Overall, the Songkran Festival is a great time to visit Thailand and experience the country’s unique culture and traditions. However, visitors should be aware that the festival can be bustling and crowded and that water fights can sometimes get rowdy and result in injuries or damage to personal property. Taking precautions and protecting your belongings is advisable if you plan to participate in water fights.