Happy New Year in Thailand: Should I Visit During Songkran?
Yes, if you love a great water fight and party!
Happy New Year, or “Songkran,” is a major national holiday in Thailand that is celebrated annually in mid-April. If you are planning to visit Thailand and are wondering about the best time to go, you might be considering the Songkran celebration. Before deciding to visit during this time, however, you may want to consider certain things.
As a first-time visitor to Thailand, I was lucky enough to experience the vibrant and exciting Songkran Thai Water Festival or New Year celebrations. Trust me when I say, it’s an event you don’t want to miss!
In this article, I will share my personal experience of celebrating Happy Songkran Day in Thailand and provide some insider insights for those who are planning to visit during this festive time. So grab your water guns and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Songkran!
Whether you’re a first-time or repeat visitor, I guarantee that this experience will leave you drenched in smiles and unforgettable memories. But is it worth planning your trip around Songkran? Let’s find out.
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What is Songkran, and how is it celebrated?
The annual Songkran Festival is a three-day holiday that welcomes Thailand’s new solar year. It is the most significant festival in Thailand, and many people from other parts of the world come to see and experience it.
The celebration itself is famously known for its water activities, with people pouring water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and renewal. Celebrants also participate in traditional practices such as visiting Buddhist temples, making donations, and being with family.
History of Songkran Celebration
The word ‘Songkran’ derives from Sanskrit, which means “astrological passage”. It’s a time when the sun moves from one zodiac sign to another, marking the beginning of a new solar year. The festival originated in India and spread to other Buddhist countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.
It is believed that pouring water during Songkran washes away the past year’s misfortunes, making way for a fresh start. Now, it has become a fun and joyous celebration that attracts tourists from all over the world.
My Happy Songkran Experience
As soon as I arrived in Phuket during Songkran, I knew I was in for an exciting time. The streets were bustling with Thai people and tourists wearing colorful clothes, carrying water guns and buckets of water. We saw family members in pickup trucks having a blast participating in Songkran Festivities.
I joined in the festivities, shooting and getting soaked by strangers who yelled “Happy Songkran Day!”
It was a refreshing break during the hottest month of the year from the usual tourist activities, and I loved being part of such a lively celebration and likely the world’s largest water fight. The rest of my trip involved visiting temples, enjoying cooking traditional Thai food, and even interacting with elephants.
What are the dates for Songkran?
The Songkran Water Festival is observed annually from April 13th to 15th. However, street celebrations usually start a few days before and can extend up to a week after the official dates. This makes it easier for tourists who want to participate in the festivities to plan their trip accordingly.
Should I Plan My Trip Around Songkran?
If you’re a fan of street parties, water fights, and cultural experiences, then yes! Songkran is an incredible experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season in Thailand, so expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodation and transportation.
What to expect during Songkran Happy New Year Water Festival
The Songkran Water Festival, also known as the Thai New Year, is a three-day celebration filled with joyous festivities and cultural traditions. It is an experience that showcases the rich heritage of Thailand and brings local people and tourists together to have a great time.
Day 1 – Songkran Day
On the first day of Songkran, also known as “Maha Songkran,” people will typically wake up early to offer alms to monks at their local temples. This is a traditional Buddhist practice and a way to start the new year with good karma. Water fights may also begin on this day, but it’s usually more subdued compared to the later days.
Day 2 – Nao New Year
The second day of Songkran is called “Nao New Year” or “Wan Nao” and is considered the transition day between the old year and the new year. This is when you will see people preparing for more intense water fights, building stages for performances, and organizing parades.
Day 3 – Wan Payawan – New Year’s Day
The last day of Songkran, “Wan Payawan,” is when the water fights are at their peak. This is the day to let loose and truly embrace the festive spirit. Many people will also visit temples to make offerings and attend religious ceremonies.
Where is Songkran celebrated in Thailand?
Songkran is celebrated throughout Thailand, but some popular destinations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Each city may have its own unique traditions and celebrations,
Songkran in Bangkok
In Bangkok, Songkran is celebrated on a grand scale with parades, beauty pageants, and massive water fights along the main streets. The most famous Songkran spot in Bangkok is Khao San Road, where locals and tourists alike come together to celebrate.
Songkran in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is known for having the biggest and most popular Songkran celebrations in Thailand. The water fights here are legendary, and the city even hosts a Miss Songkran Beauty Pageant.
Songkran in Phuket
In Phuket, locals and tourists flock to Patong Beach and Bangla Road for lively water fights and street parties. You can also find traditional ceremonies at local temples, adding a cultural touch to the festivities.
Songkran in Pattaya
Pattaya may be known for its nightlife, but during Songkran, it transforms into a water wonderland. The city hosts a huge beach party and parade, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Tips for Celebrating Songkran
- Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.
- Protect your valuables by storing them in a waterproof bag.
- Use non-toxic, natural colors for the water fights.
- Be respectful of religious ceremonies and avoid getting soaked near temples.
- Be mindful of the locals and their businesses during water fights
- Explore different parts of Thailand, as Songkran is celebrated differently in each region
- Embrace the spirit of Songkran and have fun!
Pros and Cons of Visiting During Songkran
Pros
The Pros of Visiting During Songkran? The festival is a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique culture of Thailand. You can participate in the activities while adapting to the theme of renewal and beginning afresh that it conveys.
Moreover, Songkran is not only celebrated in Bangkok and other major cities, but some of Thailand’s rural towns and villages also offer unique celebrations that are worth experiencing.
Also, Songkran attracts different people from different parts of the world, and the atmosphere can be infectious, and it is an excellent opportunity to meet new people. Plus it’s the hottest time of the year, so a little water is refreshing!
Cons
The Cons of Visiting During Songkran One of the most significant downsides of visiting Thailand during Songkran is its water activities. While some may enjoy the fun and novelty of the water games, others may not be comfortable with the high level of water throwing.
Additionally, it is essential to be mindful that it is a religious celebration. Some temples may only be available for locals to visit, and establishments, such as banks, may close. Furthermore, as it is peak tourist season, the prices of accommodation, transportation, and other activities may be high.
What to bring to be prepared for Songkran
- Waterproof bags and a waterproof phone case – To keep your cell phone, money, and other valuables dry while participating in water activities.
- Water gun – A must-have is either a Super Soaker or a water pistol for joining in on the fun water fights.
- Change of clothes – You will most likely get soaked during Songkran, so it’s essential to have a change of clothes.
- Sunscreen – It may be a water festival, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get sunburnt, and of course, if you will be snorkeling or hanging out at the beach, be sure and use reef-safe sunscreen!
- A smile – Songkran is all about having fun and immersing yourself in the culture, so bring your best attitude and enjoy the festivities!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Celebrating Songkran Day or the Thai New Year
Here are some frequently asked questions about celebrating Songkran Day or Thailand New Year:
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival, also known as the Water Festival.
The main celebrations for Songkran occur from April 13th to 15th, but some areas may continue the festivities for a few more days.
It is primarily celebrated by throwing water at each other in a friendly and playful manner to symbolize washing away the past year’s bad luck and starting fresh for the new year.
Yes, it is customary to pour scented water over the hands of elders as a sign of respect and to ask for blessings. It is also polite to avoid throwing water at monks or pregnant women.
What else should you know?
Yes, some traditional dishes and desserts are commonly eaten during Songkran, such as khao chae (rice soaked in chilled jasmine-scented water) and kanom tom (sweet sticky rice balls). There are also popular drinks like nam dok anchan (butterfly pea flower tea) and sangkaya fak thong (pumpkin custard).
Yes, there are parades, cultural performances, and even beauty pageants that take place during Songkran. It is also common for people to visit temples, make merit, and spend time with family and friends.
Absolutely! Tourists are welcome to join in on the fun and experience the lively and joyful atmosphere of Songkran. Just be prepared to get wet!
Songkran has its roots in ancient Buddhist traditions, but the water festival as we know it today began in the 19th century. It is believed to have originated in northern Thailand as a way for people to cool off during the hot season.
The traditional greeting for Songkran is “Sawadee Pee Mai” which translates to “Happy New Year.” You can also say “Suksan Wan Songkran,” which means “Happy Songkran Day.” And of course, you can always wish someone a simple and sincere “Sa-was-dee Pi-mai!” as well.
The Wrap-Up: Is it Worth Visiting Thailand during Songkran?
Absolutely, yes! Thailand’s Happy New Year, Songkran, is a must-visit event if you love festivals and enjoy experiencing different cultures’ customs. The festival brings everyone in Thailand together, and it is an opportunity to experience unity within diversity.
However, it is vital to weigh up the pros and cons before deciding whether to visit during Songkran. You will have plenty of things to do and see regardless of the time of year you choose to visit. Nonetheless, Songkran is an event that is always worth considering.
If you’re interested in other activities, check out my posts on visiting an Elephant Sanctuary or taking a Thai cooking class!
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