It's almost the water festival in Thailand and you're about to land in Thailand? Discover the origins of one of the most important festivals in Thailand and suggestions for where to celebrate Songkran.

Songkran Festival, also known as Thai New Year, is one of the most important and iconic events in Thai culture. The three-day festival is celebrated across the country with rituals, dances, offerings and most importantly, water, lots of water and scented talcum powder. The streets are filled with epic water fights, Buddha statue processions and the election of a Miss Songkran. Songkran is a joyous and festive celebration that symbolizes renewal and refreshment for the coming year, as well as the purification of body and mind. Whether you are Thai or just a passing traveler, Songkran is a unique and unforgettable cultural experience that you should not miss.

When is Songkran Festival?

Songkran is primarily celebrated every year the April 13. But if you're in Thailand, you'll quickly find yourself immersed in the festivities for three, five, or even 10 days, depending on your specific location in the country. The three main days of celebrations being April 13, 14 and 15, this last day being my birthday, this explains why I tend to particularly appreciate this celebration! The dates of the festivities vary according to the regions, in the north in particular, the celebrations start earlier, sometimes as early as April 11 and more generally from April 12 and sometimes extend until April 17, so basically over a good week. In the south, it is more sober, depending on the exact location, you are sure to find entertainment and get wet on April 13, if it is touristy, the 14th and 15th will also be lively but outside, it is more limited.

If we break it down a bit, the days are generally divided as follows:

• April 13, This is the first and main day of the festival. Besides the water fights raging outside, people clean their homes and public places like temples and schools to get rid of any bad luck from the previous year and prepare them for the new year. Another main activity is Song Nam Phra, a ritual which consists of pouring perfumed water on the sacred images of Buddha in a temple. 
• April 14, : The 2nd day of the festival is called Wan Nao, which is the equivalent of New Year's Eve, marking the transition from the old to the new year. It is also the day of the "National Family Day", which involves spending time with family. Usually this involves preparing meals to offer to the monks the next day and may be accompanied by a trip to the temple to make offerings and build a sand chedi (Chedi Sai). This day is also normally dedicated to the ritual called Rod Nam Dum Hua, where the younger ones will show their respect to the elders by pouring water on their hands.
• April 15, : it is the day which concretely marks the new year, called Wan Payawan. It is a day when we bring offerings and pray as a family with the monks in a temple.

The origins and significance of the festival

The word Songkran is derived from Sanskrit, like many words in Thai, which also have origins from Pali, Buddhism coming from India, we find a notable linguistic and cultural influence in Thailand. Songkran means "to pass" or "to move"This refers to the movement of the sun and moon as they change position in the zodiac. This change commonly marks the end of the dry period and the beginning of the rainy season.

Originally, the celebration did not have the same impact as today, even though the use of water was always more or less central thereAlthough celebrated by the royal family and all their subjects, it was a "small" traditional festival where nobles, in particular, came to show their respect and allegiance to the king. During the Ayutthaya period, [another element] was added. the tradition of pouring water on Buddha statues the most revered. Originally, it was a washing process to start a new year under new auspices, water being associated with purification, it is believed that water wards off bad luck.

It is also a call for the return of the rain, as Thailand has long been an essentially agricultural country, and farmers were more dependent on the rainy season than they are today (nowadays they benefit from artificial water reserves scattered here and there, dams and irrigation systems allowing them to water all year round).

Over time, April is also the hottest month of the yearPeople began splashing each other in a more playful way, and from the 50s onwards, the celebration evolved into a massive water fight. Nowadays, they often add talcum powder to the water, which they sprinkle on the cheeks of anyone passing by while wishing you a Happy New Year (which is called Sawatdee Pimaï!), not forgetting to douse you thoroughly, sometimes with ice-cold water!

Songkran Tips: How to Prepare for 2024?

If you are in Thailand during this time, be prepared!

1. Clothing : Since there will be a lot of water pouring during the festival, it is recommended to wear light and quick-drying clothes, such as shorts and t-shirts. Originally, white clothes were the go-to attire for the Songkran festival because they represent purity and cleanliness. However, the fashion today is mostly for flowered shirts! You will see them on sale everywhere at this time, that's why! However, if you are in the south, and even if you will most likely come across young Thai women in this case, avoid wearing too revealing clothes or visible lingerie.
2. Protection : Water and talcum powder are generally not good for smartphones and your wallet. To protect your valuables, you can use waterproof plastic bags or waterproof pouches for mobile phones, wallets and cameras (a basic pouch costs 100-200 baht). It is also recommended to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from water and sun. In general, if the goal is to go out and expose yourself to participate in water fights, you should go light with just enough cash and possibly a card and phone.
3. Food and drink : It may sound corny, but make sure to stay hydrated during the festival, as it can be very hot. Bring water and energy drinks to recharge your batteries if you get tired. For food, there will be plenty of food stalls throughout the festival grounds, so feel free to try the local dishes, but avoid those that are directly exposed to water fights, as splashes of unsightly water could contaminate them.
4. Safety : Avoid bringing large amounts of valuables and cash. Be vigilant with your belongings and do not leave them unattended. Also make sure you know the emergency numbers and first aid points at the festival sites.
5. Transport : Avoid driving during the festival, as the roads can be busy and there may be some reckless drivers (which is not great in normal times). It is best to take public transport or walk to get around. Note that if you are walking from one site to another with your water pistol, some taxis may refuse you, but in general, with tuk tuks, this will be your preferred way to get around.
6. be polite : Wish them a new year in Thai, it will make them very happy: Sawatdee Pimaï!
7. And above all, smile and have fun!!

If you're among those who don't want to participate in this passing "madness" and prefer to stay dry, simply avoid designated water fight areas in cities. If you see a group dancing around a large tub of water on the side of the road, don't panic; crossing to the other side will generally make your intention clear. If you don't want to keep crossing the road (which is also understandable), politely wave your hand to indicate no; they generally respect the wishes of those who don't want to get wet.

Just the outfit you wear at that moment can indicate whether you are in party mode or "leave me alone". Wearing appropriate clothes like a shirt and pants (yes, pants in April are not necessarily easy) will be perceived as a sign of "hands off", while a flowery shirt is equivalent to a big "water me please". In any case, keep smiling!

Also be careful, here are some precautions:

1. Do not water monks, babies and elderly people (but the police, you have the right!)
2. Be careful with alcohol! Don't drive if you're drunk, that's obvious, but also be more careful near the roads!
3. Do not throw away dirty water or water of dubious origin. Also, even if it is common practice, avoid throwing away water with ice cubes, the hot-cold reaction can cause shocks.
4. For an obvious reason related to the previous one, we never know the origin of the water used for watering, avoid drinking the cup 😊
5. Avoid throwing a bucket of water on motorcycles while they are moving to avoid any accidents (they are the most exposed in the event of a fall).

On this last point, I would like to point out that each year, there are more than 3 accidents and some 000 deaths on average in a single week on the roads of Thailand. The fault lies with alcohol of course, but also with the recklessness of people who do not hesitate to throw a bucket of water on a two-wheeler at full speed... Some stand in the middle of the road to be able to spray those who refuse to be watered (when they do not want to stop) and create dangerous situations for drivers (including in cars).  

If you're traveling in the country at this time of year, be careful! Generally, if you're on a scooter, when you see a group on the side of the road, slow down and either let them gently spray you rather than trying to avoid them, or make it clear that you want to stay dry. Most people will respect this and only give you a few drops instead of a full bucket. 

7 places to celebrate Songkran in Thailand:

While the festival is celebrated across the country, some destinations are more popular to do so, let's review 6 destinations across Thailand where to celebrate Songkran to enjoy it to the max!

1.Bangkok

Of course, the party is in full swing in the capital, which is no exception when it comes to celebrating. In Bangkok, the main spots to play Songkran are:

– Khao San Road
– Silom Road
– In front of Central World (it’s often a Mousse party!)

I can also include Phra Pradaeng, which is in the neighboring province of Samut Prakan, with a rather unique festival centered on the Mon community. It's generally more traditional, also featuring a Miss and Mister Songkran pageant and a procession. For this reason, they've even shifted the celebrations a week later than the rest of Bangkok, with the festival taking place around April 20-24.

2.Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai remains a must-visit spot for celebrating Songkran. The moat surrounding the old city obviously provides a readily available source of water. Moreover, Chiang Mai loves to party and isn't shy about showing it! While the north is generally better at celebrating traditions, here the festivities last longer, extending over a whole week. For more information, I've written a dedicated article. Why Celebrate Songkran in Chiang Mai"

The entire road surrounding the old town will be your playground, as well as the banks of the Ping River, which crosses the city to the east. Of course, for the more traditional aspect, you have what you need as a temple, notably the Wat Phra Singh, to celebrate the passage of the Thai New Year in style.

3.Pattaya

Pattaya, despite its seedy reputation, is the perfect spot for those who want to add a little "sexy" touch to the party. Although it's true I never talk about it on my blog (a mistake I promised myself I'd rectify one day), I discuss this in more detail here.It is, after all, a seaside resort focused on well-being and relaxation, so it certainly doesn't lack a festive atmosphere. It's also because the city has this ambition to always attract more people that it doesn't hesitate to do and think big.

All along Beach Road, running along the beach, and up to Walking Street, you should have plenty to keep you busy.

4. Phuket

Phuket, an island that needs no introduction, is also ready to celebrate Songkran as it should be. You can attend several events organized by the different resorts on the island, especially in Patong with a procession of the Buddha image. It is also especially in Patong and especially along Bangla Road that you will find entertainment. You will also certainly find activities in the heart of Phuket town. If you want to choose a temple for this occasion, go to Wat Chalong.

5. Ko Samui

Of course, I couldn't mention Phuket without its Gulf of Thailand counterpart: Ko Samui. You'll find plenty of people to splash around along the island's main beaches, especially in the area stretching from Bo Phut to Chaweng, the main and liveliest beach, and all the way to Lamai.

6. Sukhothai

Sukhothai is considered the first capital of Thailand, but it's also the city where the festival originated! Needless to say, the festivities there are particularly lively and the Sukhothai Historical Park is celebrated with decorations, markets and shows related to the birth of this popular festival. Most of the activity takes place on the main street of Mueang Kao, the name of the village located next to the historical park.

7. Khon Kaen

A city that is a bit out of the ordinary, it is the opportunity to discover the "real" party, among the locals. And because the origin of Songkran is linked to time and agriculture, Khon Kaen, which is one of the most important rice producing regions, is an important spot during the Songkran festivities. Attend the parades, petanque competitions (yes, the Thais are even rather good!) and mingle with the population who will welcome you here like never before!

Of course, I can't make an exhaustive list of all the Songkran destinations in Thailand since it concerns the entire country. However, I have been lucky enough to celebrate this festival in different parts of the country, such as Nakhon Si Thammarat in my wife's province, or Ko Samui in the south, Lampang or Chiang Mai in the north. No matter where you go, you can have fun with water and live unforgettable moments.

Festival activities and rituals

Among the things you might see are Buddha statues placed everywhere to be watered, especially in shopping malls. Generally, on the first day, you'll encounter parades, with people wearing traditional costumes in a festive atmosphere, as there will always be music and people dancing. It's also an opportunity to do the annual house cleaning (the famous spring cleaning!).

In general, Songkran remains an opportunity for Thais to meet up with family and visiting temples (traditionally, 9 temples are visited during the Songkran period) as this is a time when they have 7 days of national holidays.

Traditionally, Thai people perform the ritual called " Rod Nam Dum Hua"During the ritual, the young pour scented water into the palms of the elders as a gesture of humility, respect and to ask for their blessing.

In temples, you will often see a kind of sandbox, with piles of sand in the middle of them. Constructions that we would readily associate with our sand pies in the summer, but which here represent chedis or pagodas. This process, made available in the temple gardens, allows people to make merit (in addition to the other usual actions). According to belief, there are two versions explaining this tradition in particular:

1. The first is that when going to the temples, one leaves them with earth under one's shoes (stuck underneath). People then carry sand to their monastery as compensation for all the sand they have carried under their feet during the year. By establishing these structures called "Chedi Sai", it is symbolic of bringing back this earth, as if to be forgiven for this blunder.
2. The other reason is directly related to Buddha, in a previous life before his incarnation where he will become Buddha, although he was born miserably poor, he already possessed a heart of gold and was always determined to make merit. Thus, he carried sand to a temple and built a sand chedi near a stream.

Songkran is also about festivities organized by cities and various celebrations including parades, the election of Miss Songkran and generally having fun in joy and good humor! It is common to witness scenes of exuberance because the party is also an excuse to let loose and unwind a bit. But overall, it is good-natured, with music, dancing, drinking (lots of drinking!) and people soaked from head to toe. Water guns, hoses, buckets, in short, anything that falls into hand can be used to splash people, and one thing is sure: you will get wet!

In summary, what awaits you for Songkran:

1. Water fight
Water fights are now a big part of New Year celebrations. April is the hottest time of year in Thailand and splashing yourself with water is a great way to cool down. Some streets are closed to traffic and serve as arenas where large crowds gather to “fight” each other using hoses, buckets and water guns. This is a particularly popular activity among the younger generations and of course; you are welcome to join in!

2. Cleaning
As with Chinese New Year, Thais clean their homes, schools, temples, offices and other public places to welcome the New Year in a fresh and clean environment.

3. Visit temples
This is an important part of the Songkran festival. Thai people go to temples to offer food and clothing to the monks and receive a blessing in return. Offerings to the monks include drinks, fruits, cooked food, and new robes for the monks.

4. Releasing fish into the water
Around temples, it is common to see tanks filled with fish and turtles. Thais believe that this practice of "setting them free" by dumping them in a canal or river next to the temple allows them to regain good fortune. Although this is becoming rarer, this practice was also once done with caged birds.

5. Folk shows and games
Folkloric performances and games are held in the form of a fair during Songkran. There are also beauty contests and parades with traditional costumes. Other interesting activities held during the Songkran festival include spontaneous street markets, Thai dances and, depending on the location, boat races may be held.

6. Build sand pagodas
As mentioned earlier, the construction of sand pagodas on temple grounds involves Thais bringing sand to the temples during the festival. The sand can be used to build the pagodas or even to repair the temples. Helping with temple maintenance and assisting monks in general is considered good practice during the Songkran festival.

Conclusion and photo gallery

To conclude, I would say that the water festival is for me an experience to have at least once in your life, Songkran Festival is full of joy and good humor, it's a whole country having fun together and it feels good! Don't be surprised to see crazy outfits, because besides the Hawaiian shirt, wigs and dyed orange hair are the norm for Songkran!

While generally popular, the Songkran festival can also be seen as a love-it-or-hate-it event. This can be considered fun, but some people more rooted in the past see it as a loss of traditional values ​​and perceive Songkran as a major outlet for letting loose.

Don't be surprised if you are offered a ride in the back of a pick-up truck loaded with a swimming pool filled with water to go for a spin on the roads and spray other pick-ups crossing your path or local residents waiting for you at the bend in front of their houses.

Note that Songkran is also celebrated in neighboring countries, Cambodia, Laos and Burma.