Hot off the heels of Chinese Near Year, Thaipusam, and Hari Raya, it’s time for Thailand’s Songkran! This marks the Thai New Year, officially celebrated from April 13th to 15th. You know the drill—for those in Thailand, it’s the time to trade everyday stresses for water guns! The Thai New Year isn’t just about temple visits and family gatherings; it’s also the biggest, wettest, and wildest water fight on the planet. And since April is also traditionally the hottest time of year in Thailand (April 2024 had temperatures over 42°C in some areas!), having a water-drenched celebration is never a bad idea!
Whether you’re a seasoned Songkran warrior or a first-timer ready to make a splash, there’s no escaping the fun (or the inevitable soak).
Traditional Roots: More Than Just H2-Oh!
Songkran is famous the world over, but aside from its epic water fights, it’s a centuries-old Thai culture that represents a time of renewal. However, before the Supersoakers and water balloons took over, Songkran had some pretty serene beginnings:
- Temple Hopping: Locals visit temples to make merit, which involves offering food to monks and listening to sermons. It’s like a spiritual pit stop before the watery chaos ensues.
- Buddha Bathing: Gently pouring water over Buddha statues symbolises purification. It’s a calm, reflective practice—until someone sneaks up with a bucket.
- Elder Appreciation: Younger folks pour scented water over the hands of their elders, seeking blessings. It’s a touching gesture, provided grandma doesn’t retaliate with a water gun.
Modern Mayhem: Water Fights Galore
Today, Songkran has evolved into a nationwide water war. Armed with water guns, hoses, and anything that can spray, people take to the streets for some good, clean fun. It’s the only time when drenching a police officer might earn you a smile instead of a citation.
Beyond the water fights, modern Songkran celebrations have expanded into massive street parties, music festivals, and even dance raves. In regions like Chiang Mai and Pattaya, Songkran celebrations last up to a week.
If you’re looking to dive into the festivities, here are the top splash zones:
Bangkok: Water Fights Meets EDM Festival
For a classic Songkran experience, head to Khao San Road and Silom Road, which become aquatic arenas where you can expect crowds, music, and a lot of watery fun. But soaking on the streets isn’t the only way to have fun – Bangkok hosts some of the best music festivals too.
Bangkok’s RCA (Royal City Avenue) hosts the electrifying Siam Songkran Music Festival 2025 (April 11-14), featuring top DJs like Steve Aoki, Hardwell, and Alesso.
Meanwhile, the S2O Songkran Music Festival (April 12-14) turns into an water-fueled EDM music festival at the Rajamangala National Stadium, with this year’s line-up featuring Marshmello, Alan Walker, Major Lazer, Diplo, and more. Of course, these festivals also feature some of Thailand’s biggest names.
For these huge music events, the stages and sound systems are set up along with water cannons and foam machines – perfect for the party lover.
Chiang Mai: Old City Water Warfare
This city offers a blend of traditional ceremonies and all-out water warfare. The moat surrounding the old city provides an endless water supply to create one of Thailand’s largest water wars! You can also expect parades, traditional ceremonies, and maybe the occasional elephant.
Ayutthaya: Ancient Sites & Water-Spraying Elephants
For a more uniquely Thai version of Songkran, a visit to this ancient city combines epic water fights with ancient temples and ruins. That’s not all – you can also expect elephants joining in on the action! These gentle giants, often decorated with colourful paint, spray water from their trunks at festival-goers. Just be prepared—an elephant’s splash is on a whole new level!
Pattaya: Extended Beach Party Vibe
Celebrations here can stretch up to 19 April, giving you ample time to perfect your water-splashing techniques. The coastal vibes add a beachy twist to the festivities, when the city hosts Wan Lai on April 19, a traditional Songkran beach event where activities include sand pagoda building, monk blessings, and live entertainment.
Meanwhile, Koh Samui and Phuket host vibrant beach parties, blending traditional water fights with neon lights and pulsating beats. Whether you’re into cultural traditions or high-energy celebrations, there’s a Songkran experience for everyone!
Can’t travel? Songkran Comes to You
This year, Downtown East celebrates Songkran Festival from Mar 15 to Apr 15. Wild Wild Wet (WWW) is getting a Songkran makeover with vibrant festival-themed décor, photo ops, and interactive shooting targets. The real fun unfolds in the water fight zones, featuring water gun arsenals, an inflatable maze, and a dunk tank for those eager to test their aim. Adding to the excitement are the new Hasbro Nerf Super Soaker Dunk-Fill blasters.
The month-long revelry officially opens with a splash on Mar 22 with a performance by Thai artiste Tachaya Prathumwan, better known as ‘Keng’ (เก่ง). Check their website for more ticket details.
Survival Tips: Stay Cool and Collected
To make the most of your Songkran experience:
- Dress Down: Opt for light, quick-drying clothes. Fashion takes a backseat when you’re perpetually drenched.
- Gadget Protection: Waterproof bags are your best friend. Unless you want your phone to take an unscheduled swim.
- Respect the Boundaries: Not everyone is game for a surprise splash. Monks, the elderly, and anyone wielding electronics should be considered off-limits.
Songkran is more than just a massive water fight; it’s a celebration of renewal, community, and, let’s face it, an excuse to act like a kid again. Just remember: in the battle of water, no one stays dry!
