Songkran Festival in Thailand

About this tour

The official core dates for the Songkran Festival are April 13–15 every year, marking the traditional Thai New Year. Many areas (such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and parts of Chon Buri/Pattaya) extend festivities or start early, running broadly from April 11 to April 19/20 depending on the city.

Celebrate the Thai New Year with Culture, Tradition, and Joy

Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, celebrated every year in April. It is one of the country’s most important cultural celebrations, symbolizing new beginnings, good fortune, purification, and the washing away of bad luck from the past year.

The festival is famous worldwide for its joyful water fights, where locals and visitors come together to splash water in the streets. However, Songkran is much more than a water festival. It is also a meaningful time for families to reunite, show respect to elders, visit temples, make merit, and celebrate Thai traditions.

Songkran Traditions

Water Pouring Ceremony

Water represents purification and renewal. Traditionally, people gently pour scented water over Buddha images and the hands of respected elders to express gratitude, seek blessings, and welcome the New Year.

Temple Visits and Making Merit

Many Thai people visit temples to offer food to monks, make merit, and participate in religious ceremonies to welcome good fortune for the year ahead.

Family and Respect for Elders

Songkran is a special time for families to come together. Younger family members pour water over the hands of their parents and grandparents as a gesture of respect and ask for their blessings.

Water Festival Celebrations

In cities across Thailand, streets transform into lively celebration areas filled with water fights, music, dancing, and festive activities. Locals and international visitors join in the fun, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Celebrate Songkran in Thailand?

* Bangkok: Experience vibrant street celebrations alongside traditional Thai New Year activities.
* Chiang Mai: Discover cultural traditions and lively festivities around the Old City and Tha Phae Gate.
* Pattaya: Enjoy the famous Wan Lai celebrations, with extended water festivities and a lively seaside atmosphere.
* Phuket: Celebrate the Thai New Year with beach destinations, water activities, and festive nightlife.
* Ayutthaya: Explore Thailand’s historic temples while discovering traditional Songkran celebrations.

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