The Songkran Festival is an ancient celebration to mark the start of the traditional Thai New Year. It occurs mid-April and usually lasts for three days.
During this time, people in Thailand come together to wish each other luck and prosperity for the new year ahead.
The word ‘Songkran’ comes from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti, which means ‘transformation’ or ‘passing’. As such, the festival is seen as a time of renewal and cleansing, when people take part in rituals to purify themselves and their loved ones for a successful new year.
The most iconic feature of Songkran is its water activities. People gather in public spaces, often around Buddhist temples, with buckets and hoses of water to splash each other in good fun. This symbolises washing away any misfortunes from the previous year and bringing in good luck for the coming year.
Where Are The Best Places To Celebrate Songkran?
The best places to celebrate Songkran are wherever there are large crowds! Bangkok is one of the most popular spots for celebrating this festival, as it has some of the largest gatherings of people in Thailand. Other cities such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima and Udon Thani also host traditional events during this time.
For those looking for a more unique experience or wanting to avoid large crowds, there are plenty of smaller towns across Thailand that also host celebrations. These range from traditional markets with food stalls to colourful parades with dancers dressed up in elaborate costumes.
Conclusion
The Songkran Festival is an important cultural event that celebrates new beginnings and brings people together from all over Thailand. Celebrations typically involve throwing water on each other with buckets or hoses, symbolising renewal and cleansing. The best places to celebrate Songkran are Bangkok and other major cities like Chiang Mai or Phuket; however smaller towns can be great too if you’re looking for a more unique experience.