Songkran is a Thai traditional New Year which starts on April 13 every year and lasts for 3 days. Songkran festival on April 13 is Maha Songkran Day or the day to mark the end of the old year, April 14 is Wan Nao which is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok which the New Year begins.
Songkran means “movement” or “changing” since according to Thai astrology, the sun will move into a new sign of the Zodiac on this day. Songkran is also called the “Water Festival”. Water is believed to flow and wash away all bad omens during this time. Thus, it is a time for cleaning; houses, villages, temples and spirit houses.
In the Thai tradition, the New Year begins early in the morning when faithful Thai Buddhists give alms to Buddhist monks. After that, they release caged animals, especially birds and fish. Elders and parents will be visited and respected by their children and grandchildren. The young pour scented water over their elder’s hands, they in return, wish them good health, happiness and prosperity. This tradition of paying respect, is called “Rod Nam Dam Hua”. April 14 is called “Family Day”.
In the afternoon, Thai Buddhists sprinkle scented water on Buddha images. After that, they sprinkle perfumed water on, or throw clean, cold water over each other. Songkran is observed with excitement in the North, especially in the northern province of Chiang Mai.
A lot of people from around the country will head up north to participate in the festivals organised there. A Miss Songkran Pageant will be held and a long and beautiful parade will be organised.
In Bangkok, the Buddha image “Buddhasihing“ is brought out from the National Museum for people to sprinkle lustral water at Sanam Luang, opposite the Grand Palace. Anyone who goes out on the street is likely to get a thorough soaking. People believe that water will wash away bad luck, and splashing water over friends or anyone will give them a New Year blessing.
Credit : school.obec.go.th
Location : Around Thailand
Favorite Place
- Chiang Mai
- Khaosan Road (Bangkok)
- Pattaya (Chonburi)
- Bang Saen (Chonburi)
- Pattaya – Nakrea (Chonburi)
- Khao Nieo Road (Khon Kaen)
- Khao Phun Road (Nakhon Pharnom)
- Phuket
- Nongkrai
Timeline Festival (Chiang Mai)
April 12, At morning, The performers/dancers are going to do an act of worship to the King Mengrai at 3 King Monument. May have people join performers/dancers more than 720 people.
April 13, Approximate 07:00 AM – 09:00 AM
morning market is alike time machine for sightseeing culture, morning market and otherthing. You can found rare some food from 40 years ago and difficult to see in another day. Many people from cultural group in Chiangmai join for showing and share everything.
April 5-15 Khao Nieo Road (Khon Kaen)
April 11-15 Khao Phun Road(Nakhon Pharnom) (Thai – Laos)
April 12-13 Songkran On The Beach (Phuket)
April 12-16 Nongkrai (Thai – Laos)
April 13-15 Midnight Songkran (Songkhra)
April 16-17 Wan Lai Bang Saen Songkran (Chonburi)
April 18-20 Pattya – Na Krea (Chonburi)
** Main content is Chiang Mai location.
