Thailand New Year ~ Songkran ~ Water Festival ~ April 13th to 15th

Songkran Thai New Year – Water Festival What is Songkran? Songkran is Thailand’s most famous festival. This important event in the Buddhist calendar marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year (from 13th to 15th April). The name Songkran comes from a Sanskrit word meaning 'passing' or 'approaching'. Why use Water? The real meaning behind the water is to symbolically cleanse all misfortunes of the past year and to welcome the New Year with a clean and fresh new start. Traditionally, Thai people would politely pour a bowl of water on members of the family, their close friends and neighbors for good fortune and to pay their respects. As Songkran has taken a more festive note, a bowl has evolved into a bucket, garden hose and water guns, and the festive spirit of this holiday is shared among all residents and tourists alike.

Do’s & Don’ts in Songkran

-Do Do use waterproof bags to protect your valuables Do watch your belongings Do use public transportation if you are heading to one of Songkran ‘hotspots’, as traffic will be paralyzed Do try wishing the locals a happy new year in Thai – “Sawasdee Pee Mai!” Do smile and have fun -Do not Do not douse monks, babies or the elderly Do not drive when you have been drinking Do not throw water with ice or dirty water Do not throw water at motorcyclists, to prevent road accidents * Information provided by Agoda Best places to celebrate Songkran Festival No. 1: CHIANG MAI (13th-15th) -- Huay Kaow Road (Old Central)  No.2: BANGKOK (13th-15th) -- Khao San Road  -- Silom No. 3: PHUKET (13th-15th) -- Patong (Bangla Road) No. 4: PATTAYA -- Chonburi (12th - 15th) -- Sriracha (16th - 17th) -- Naklua (18th) -- Pattaya (19th) -- Sattahip (20th) No. 5: Hua Hin (14th)