Water fights, rich traditions, and a fresh start: Your ultimate guide to Thailand’s Songkran New Year festival

At first glance, Thailand’s Songkran festival might seem like nothing more than an epic water battle.

Each April, people of all ages flood the streets across Thailand, armed with water guns and buckets, engaging in long, lively water fights that last from dawn till dusk.

While the water fights are the most well-known part of the event, Songkran also offers a wealth of cultural customs, making it a fantastic time for travelers to explore Thailand.

So, what exactly is Songkran?

Songkran marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year, typically celebrated from April 13-15, although in some cities, the festivities extend for a few more days.

Held during the peak of Thailand’s summer, it’s a perfect time to take a break from work and hit the road. Many people travel long distances back to their hometowns to reunite with family and friends.

The term “Songkran” is believed to have originated from ancient Sanskrit, describing the movement of the sun through the zodiac each month.

In 2023, UNESCO recognized Songkran as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its connection to the sun’s journey into the Aries constellation, the first zodiac sign, which signifies the start of the traditional Thai New Year.

According to the UNESCO inscription, “Pouring water is a meaningful ritual during Songkran, symbolizing purification, respect, and the bringing of good fortune.”

Other traditions include the ritual of bathing sacred Buddha statues, splashing water on loved ones, enjoying folk performances, games, music, and indulging in delicious feasts.

What has truly made Songkran a global phenomenon in recent years is the exuberant water fights, which take place on closed-off streets in popular areas like Khao San Road and Silom Road in Bangkok, as well as Chiang Mai’s historic Old City.

Pipad Krajaejun, a history lecturer at Thammasat University in Bangkok, notes that it’s hard to trace exactly when water fights became such an integral part of the Songkran celebrations.

However, vintage photos captured by Boonserm Satraphai of Chiang Mai in 1964 reveal that large crowds participated in water fights along the Ping River, he tells Dinogo Travel.

Many elderly locals claim that water fights have been a tradition in Thailand for 60 to 70 years.

Back in those days, Pipad explains, “The entire village would play with water together; everyone knew each other, and there was a strong sense of community.” This contrasts with today’s massive water battles involving thousands of participants and powerful water guns.

Bangkok’s celebrations will focus on highlighting the cultural significance of Songkran.

Today, Songkran festivities take place across the entire country, in almost every city, town, and village. (We’ll delve deeper into the water fights shortly.)

Some events are hosted by local government organizations, while many businesses, such as theme parks, hotels, restaurants, and bars, organize their own Songkran-themed parties. In certain towns, water fights are limited to just one day, so make sure to confirm the schedule if you plan to participate.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has compiled a list of Songkran celebrations taking place across the country. For those interested in the cultural aspects, Bangkok is becoming a prime destination for Songkran travelers this year.

The first Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 will run from April 11-15 in the historic heart of the city, around Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and Sanam Luang, close to famous landmarks like the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

One of the main attractions of the festival is the Maha Songkran Parade, taking place on April 11. Starting at Phan Fa Lilat Bridge and ending at Sanam Luang, the parade will feature 20 grand processions and over 1,000 performers.

At Sanam Luang, the vast open field in front of the Grand Palace, cultural and musical performances will unfold throughout the festival. Highlights include the renowned Khon masked dance-drama, while a dedicated area will showcase regional traditions and festivities from Thailand’s north, northeast, east, central, and southern regions.

A special water zone will host the splashing fun, featuring a musical dancing fountain, a water tunnel, a large wading pool, and several water stations.

Tradition meets modernity

Although Songkran traditions differ across Thailand, Pipad from Thammasat University notes that two key rituals remain widely practiced today.

On the first day of the new year, April 13, people—especially the elderly—visit temples to gently sprinkle water on Buddha statues, a tradition known as Song Nam Phra.

However, each region in Thailand has its own variation of this practice. In northern Thailand (Lanna), for example, people use a naga waterspout to pour water on Buddha images instead of pouring it directly.

The second ritual, called Rot Nam Dam Hua, involves pouring a mixture of water, perfume, and flowers over the hands of older family members, who then offer blessings to the younger generations. This ceremony traditionally takes place on April 14.

Today, visitors will find Buddha statues displayed in businesses, including shopping malls, often accompanied by small silver cups floating in pools of fragrant water.

Pipad explains that the practice of placing Buddha statues in shopping malls likely began in the 1970s or 1980s, when major retail centers like Central Department Store and MBK were built.

“Song Nam Phra may have become a popular activity because malls were a major destination for urban dwellers and their families,” he says. “Plus, malls offered air conditioning, which made them more attractive than temples during the hot weather.”

Enjoying the water fights safely

With water fights happening on streets and public spaces nationwide, visitors will have no trouble joining in. Water guns are sold everywhere during Songkran, with street vendors often setting up near the most popular fight zones.

However, there are some important factors to keep in mind before joining the festivities.

In terms of safety, road accidents are unfortunately common during the holiday, with drunk driving being a major contributor. There have also been reports of sexual harassment. Thai authorities recommend that visitors in need of emergency assistance call the tourist hotline at 1155.

Anyone heading out should secure their valuables in a waterproof pouch—even their phones. Getting soaked is part of the fun, but be prepared for the white powder smeared on your face, which can turn into a sticky mess.

To protect your eyes from irritation—since the water quality might not be the best—consider wearing goggles or oversized, clear glasses.

The usual precautions apply when you're out in the heat. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen. It’s summer in Thailand, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during this time of year.

On the other hand, stepping into an air-conditioned vehicle or building while drenched can be a shocking experience. A towel and a dry change of clothes stored in a waterproof bag can be lifesavers after the water fights.

Got an old Hawaiian shirt you’ve been dying to wear? Now’s your chance. Many Songkran revelers don bright, vibrant shirts covered in tropical flowers.

Thailand’s seasonal culinary specialties

Since Songkran is such a significant family celebration, food plays a central role in the festivities.

Thailand is a diverse country with a wide range of regional cuisines, meaning each province offers its own distinct culinary traditions.

However, there are a few dishes that stand out as especially popular during the hot summer months.

One such delicacy is 'khao chae,' which translates to 'rice soaked in water.' A cool, refreshing dish typically served from late March to May, it’s featured on many seasonal menus, with upscale hotels often putting their own twist on the traditional recipe.

For example, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok serves a classic khao chae set that includes jasmine-infused ice water and a variety of side dishes like kapi balls, crispy fried shallots, stuffed peppers, fish, shredded pork, and fresh vegetables.

And, of course, we can't forget the beloved mango sticky rice, a favorite among tourists, available everywhere from street vendors to fine dining establishments. In this iconic dessert or snack, sweet sticky rice is smothered in coconut cream and paired with fresh, ripe mangoes.

Although it's available year-round, mango sticky rice is especially popular during the summer months when mangoes are in season. If you're willing to brave the crowds, K. Panich in Bangkok is a legendary spot that's been serving this treat for nearly 100 years.