Songkran (Thai new year) is a legendary multi-day water festival that happens all over Thailand. As Thailand's largest city, Bangkok naturally plays host to some exciting Songkran festivities.
Songkran Festival, also known as Thailand Water Festival, is the most important festival for Thai people. Celebrated as the traditional Thai New Year, Thai people sprinkle water on the elders to show respect. They also pay respect to images of Buddha.
Songkran Festival, the Water Festival, is very closely associated with water (hence the name). Originally, people gently poured water on elders and family members to give good fortune. Water was poured on their hands, to wash away any bad luck. Images of Buddha were also cleaned.
Now, Songkran has evolved to splashing strangers on the streets with water, either with a water gun or a bucket, all in the spirit of good fun. Many locals also visit temples to pray for good luck in the coming year.
Get out and get WET! Make sure you keep all your valuables wrapped in plastic. Staying dry is unavoidable, so just smile, have fun, and buy yourself a big water pistol to keep up! Jump on the back of a pickup truck and join the dancing while you go around the city with newfound friends.
