Tiếng ViệtDo you want to experience a unique festival where the whole city turns into a colorful playground? Thailand’s Songkran Water Festival is the answer. More than just a way to cool off, Songkran is a traditional celebration rich in cultural meaning. Let’s discover what makes this festival so special!
What is Songkran?
Songkran is a traditional Thai festival, considered the Thai New Year celebration. The word “Songkran” originates from Sanskrit, meaning “transition” or “change,” symbolizing the shift from the old year to the new one. It’s a time for Thai people to show respect to elders, offer blessings for good fortune, and enjoy lively water fights to beat the summer heat.
This festival is famous worldwide for its vibrant atmosphere, exciting water fights, and the participation of both locals and international tourists.
Time of the Thailand Water Festival:
Songkran takes place from April 13th to 15th hằng năm. Tuy nhiên, ở một số khu vực, lễ hội có thể kéo dài đến 5-7 ngày. Ba ngày chính của lễ hội mang những ý nghĩa đặc biệt:
- April 13: Called “Maha Songkran Day”, it is the last day of the old year according to the Thai calendar. People clean their houses and prepare for traditional ceremonies.
- April 14: “Wan Nao Day”, people do good deeds, prepare food offerings for monks, and participate in religious ceremonies.
- April 15April 15: “Wan Payawan Day”, the first day of the New Year. People pour scented water over Buddha statues to pray for luck and blessings.
Activities during the Thailand Water Festival
The Thailand Water Festival (Songkran) takes place from April 13th to 15th each year, featuring a variety of both traditional and modern activities. Here are some of the most notable activities:
Bathing Buddha statues and praying
- People visit temples to bathe Buddha statues with fragrant water to pray for good luck.
- Perform the ritual of pouring water over the hands of monks and elders to show respect.
Water splashing – the most vibrant activity
- Locals and tourists use buckets, water guns, and hoses to splash water on one another.
- Thai people believe that water helps wash away bad luck and brings good fortune.
- Takes place all over the streets, especially in Bangkok (Khao San Road, Silom), Chiang Mai (Thapae Gate), Pattaya, and Phuket.
Parades and cultural performances
- Parades feature brightly decorated floats, Buddha statues, and traditional dances.
- Music shows and traditional Thai dance performances.
Folk games and cuisine
- Traditional games such as tug of war, boat racing, and jump rope.
- Food festivals featuring signature dishes like Som Tum (papaya salad), Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice.
Releasing fish, animal liberation, and doing good deeds
- People release fish and turtles into rivers as a ritual to create merit and blessings.
- Donate money and supplies to the poor and take part in charitable activities.
Songkran is not only a time for fun and celebration but also holds deep spiritual meaning, helping people start the new year with joy and peace.
Meaning of the Thailand Water Festival
Songkran is not just a fun-filled festival but also carries deep cultural and spiritual values. It is an occasion for people to strengthen family bonds, express filial piety, and embrace the joy of starting a new year.
The Songkran Festival has become a distinctive cultural symbol of Thailand, attracting millions of tourists each year. If you want to experience the vibrant energy and traditional charm of Thailand, this is the perfect time to visit the Land of Smiles! Check out more interesting articles in the Thailand Highlights section !
