Songkran Festival

Songkran, a festival that celebrates the Thai New Year, is all about starting fresh with a splash.
Don’t hesitate to bring out the water hoses and enjoy getting wet!

The festival takes place in Thailand on April 13 and usually lasts for three days, although in some cities, festivities may start earlier or end later.

Its main focus is on moving forward, which is represented by the Sanskrit-derived phrase “Songkran,” meaning “passage of the sun.”

Water is an integral part of the festival, symbolically washing away the previous year to make way for the next one. In addition, many other Songkran traditions involve water.
In preparation for the new year, people clean their homes, schools, offices, and other public areas. They are joined by family members who return for the holiday to spend time with loved ones.

During Songkran, many families wake up early and visit Buddhist temples to offer food and listen to monks preach. Visitors sprinkle clean or scented water over statues of Buddha to signify purification and good fortune. Younger people also pour water over the hands of elderly relatives and friends to show their respect and ask for blessings in the upcoming year.

In Thailand, April is known as the hottest month of the year, and as a way of seeking respite from the scorching temperatures, everyone participates in a nationwide water fight. Initially,

Songkran was a Buddhist custom that used a gentle sprinkling of water to represent purification. However, over time, the practice evolved into a more playful tradition, with people dousing each other with water.

In recent years, this has culminated in a massive water fight, which millions of people across the country take part in.

How to make the most out of Songkran in Thailand:

● Don’t let things get to you; it’s all about having fun.
● Be prepared to get drenched, and don’t make a fuss about it.
● If staying dry is a priority, it’s best to stay indoors.
● You may get splashed with a grey-white paste made of scented powder and water, which is harmless but can sting if it gets in your eyes.
● To wish someone a Happy New Year, say “sawadee bee mai.”
● Sunglasses can protect your eyes from water and the mysterious paste.
● It’s a good idea to use a waterproof pouch (inexpensive and readily available) to safeguard your belongings.
● Avoid wearing white, as it becomes translucent when wet.
● Monks are held in high regard in Thailand, so never throw water at them.
● Those on motorbikes may have an accident if they are suddenly drenched with water.
● Tuk-tuks and songthaews are easy targets, so be cautious and prepared to defend yourself.
● It’s better to use four-wheeled public transportation or walk instead of driving motorbikes during Songkran.
● Keep your valuables secure in your room and be mindful of any you take with you.
● Avoid drinking the water being sprayed at you as you never know where it came from.
● The wet tiled floors can be slippery, so watch your step.

While it is crucial to respect family customs and religious observances during Songkran, having fun is also an integral part of the festival. The outdoor celebrations are marked by street parties with lively music and a friendly, massive water battle.

Individuals gather water in buckets, water guns, or any other available container, and venture out to douse each other playfully.

Thankfully, April is one of the warmest months in Thailand, making the festivities even more enjoyable.