Thailand’s most exciting celebration is approaching! Songkran is more than simply a water fight. It’s a celebration of fresh starts, rich traditions, and national delight. if you’re splashing through the streets, visiting temples, or enjoying local celebrations, this is the best way to celebrate the Thai New Year. Let’s explore to prepare for three days of fun, culture, and great experiences with Sawasdee Phuket!
What is the Songkran Festival?
Songkran is Thailand’s most famous festival, marking the traditional Thai New Year. During the festival, massive water fights and cultural ceremonies are celebrated nationwide. It’s a time for family reunions, merit-making at temples, and cooling off in the scorching heat with splashes of water. The word “Songkran” comes from the Sanskrit Sankranti,” meaning “to move” or “passage of time”, symbolizing the transition into a new year.
Songkran has its roots in ancient Indian and Buddhist traditions, dating back centuries. It was officially recognized as Thailand’s New Year celebration in 1940. It takes place annually from April 13 to April 15. It symbolizes renewal, cleansing the misfortune of the old year and welcoming the upcoming new year with fresh beginnings. You can say “Happy Songkran in Thai” as “S̄uk̄hs̄ạnt̒ wạn s̄ngkrān” (สุขสันต์วันสงกรานต์) . You can pronounce it as “Sook-San Wan Songkran*”.
How to Celebrate Songkran?
Water Fights: It is indeed the most famous part of Songkran. There are designated splash zones.
Patong Beach is the most popular among locals and foreigners because of its vibrant atmosphere with non-stop parties, music, and massive water fights. Other beaches such as Kamala, Koron, and Kata beaches offer more relaxed Songkran experiences.
At Phuket Old Town, Thalang Road usually hosts celebrations every year. It could be great for you if you are looking for a more family-friendly style with street fairs, cultural performances, and local cuisines. At Old Town, you can explore local markets enjoy special Songkran dishes, and buy Songkran shirts. So, Grab the water Gun and join the fun!
Temple Visits: Locals visit temples to make merit, pour scented water on Buddha statues, and seek blessings. Maybe you are looking to celebrate Songkran most uniquely. If so, don’t forget to visit the temples too. Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most famous temple is a place you should go to celebrate Songkran traditionally. Whether you are Buddhist or not, you can visit temples and join the celebration. However, make sure to wear appropriate clothing, and change wet clothes when you visit the temple.
Traditional Rituals: Many Thai families wash the hands of elders as a sign of respect and good fortune. People release birds and fish as a way of making merit and promoting compassion. Many people wear new clothes to celebrate the new year. It is the time for a family reunion and to have quality time together.
Tips For Songkran
Protect Your Valuable: At Songkran, water is everywhere. Therefore, leave Your valuables in your hotel locker. Your passport, camera, phone, and other electronics should be kept in a waterproof bag or left safely at your hotel.
Wear Appropriate clothes. Make sure your clothes can’t see through when wet. Plus, make sure to wear quick-dry clothes and avoid heavy fabrics. If you choose wrong, you will be in a day-long wet clothes. Be mindful of alcohol consumption because drunk driving incidents spike during this period.
Prepare for White Powder: The white powder, or Din Sor Pong, is a traditional cooling paste made from limestone. It’s applied on people’s faces as a symbol of protection and good fortune.
Dos & Don’ts of Songkran
Do:
✔ Be respectful when splashing water.
✔ Wear quick-dry clothes and waterproof shoes.
✔ Carry a plastic bag for your valuables.
✔ Enjoy traditional activities at temples.
Don’t:
✘Don’t splash water on monks, babies, or the elderly.
✘ Don’t Throw water at motorbikes or tuk-tuks.
✘ Don’t use water or dirty water.
✘ Don’t get annoyed if you get wet. It’s all part of the fun!
Overall, Songkran is more than just getting soaked. It’s about joy, togetherness, and starting fresh. As It is one of Thailand’s most popular celebrations, you may not want to miss the fun. We wish you a fun, safe, and memorable Songkran! If you want to have a plan to enjoy the full experience of Phuket, book activities on Sawasdee Phuket.
