Sawadee Pee Mai… Songkran, a party not to be missed!

Songkran doesn't rhyme with the word "party" and yet it is what to expect if you are visiting Thailand in mid-April.

But what is Songkran?

Songkran is one of the most important festivals in Thailand! You should know that in Thailand, the New Year is officially celebrated on the 1^e January since 1940. Songkran is actually the national holiday of the traditional Thai New Year.

The festivities are on fixed dates and correspond to the lunar cycle, but also to the hottest period of the dry season. In some cities, however, the dates may vary.

These few days are therefore public holidays and allow Thais who work far from home to return to their families. Traditionally, it is a period of reunion during which Thais show respect towards their elders. It is also a period of renewal during which we clean the houses and throw away our old clothes. This year, Thais will therefore have three days of vacation: April 13-15.

So why does Songkran rhyme with giant water battles?

This water festival is actually an evolution of tradition. During Songkran, Thais respect two rituals. First, the ceremony of Song Nam Phra which is a tribute to the Buddha by watering his statues with scented water. It is either done at home or during public processions. Secondly, you have the Rot Nam Dam Hua ceremony which is a tribute this time to the elders. During this ritual, the younger ones pour scented water into the palms or feet of their elders. This gesture represents an act of respect, purification and a request for blessing.

The streets are now replaced by crowds of people throwing buckets of water at each other or using water guns. Bands are forming on the sidewalks and waiting to water passers-by and cars. Everyone takes part in these crazy celebrations and enjoys watering their neighbor! You will understand, it is therefore almost impossible to go out in the streets without getting soaked!

Some explanations on the traditions of Songkran

During these few days of celebrations, traditions are respected, according to the day by the Thais.

First of all, on April 13, the first day of the festival, you have Sonkran Day. Today is the beginning of the new year: Thais clean their homes in order to prepare. You can also attend processions of Buddha images all over the country. Finally, it is during this day that the water battles really begin.

Then on April 14, you have the celebration of the old Thai New Years Eve: Wan Nao. During this day, you can observe a more formal ritual: many Buddhists go to their temples to build sand castles resembling a Buddhist temple. Indeed, the Thais think that each faithful takes during the year a little earth under the soles of his shoes. This custom therefore makes it possible to compensate for the lack.

Finally, the 15 April is Thai New Year. During this day, the offerings are left in the temples. Other events are also organized.

Some practical information

In order to take full advantage of these celebrations, here are some tips!

You won't be able to walk the streets without getting hosed down whether you like it or not, so keep your cool and smile!

Since you will be constantly soaked, no reason to wear your best clothes. And small precision, once wet, clothes become transparent so prefer dark colors.

Preferably wear shoes that you will not slip in due to the water. Shoes that hold such as sneakers are more recommended than flip flops. The goal is to make the most of the party by avoiding slips leading to possible fractures… not very funny during the holidays!

The water being there, your "precious" goods such as cameras or cameras are not safe. You can find waterproof plastic bags in many shops. If you absolutely want to take them with you, then this will surely be your best ally! If you can do without them, then leave them safe at the hotel!
On the other hand, according to the law, you must always have your passport on you. Your papers will not be safe if you take them with you. It is safer to walk around with a laminated photocopy.

Drink lots of water! In the heat of the moment and being intourIf you have water, you will hardly bother drinking the water. And yet, this festival takes place during a very hot period which can lead to minor discomfort due to dehydration.

The sunset rhymes with the end of the water fight but don't worry, you can take your revenge the next morning!

These few days are synonymous with releasing the pressure: alcohol is therefore often part of the party. Be aware that many, many traffic accidents are caused by alcoholic driving. To this is also added water which can cause vehicles to lose control. If you are driving, therefore, be extremely careful!

If you simply want to avoid water, you will never be really safe. The best way at this time is to stock up for several days and stay locked in your hotel ... much less fun!

And elsewhere, what does that give?

The holiday is celebrated all over the country. The dates or the festivities vary!

Let's start with the north of the country, in Chiang Mai, crowds gather on each side of the street leaving a lane in the middle for the passage of pick-ups loaded with water cans and young people ready to do battle, in a good-natured atmosphere! The party lasts 5 days compared to 3 days in the rest of the country.

In Bangkok, you can participate in water battles in various places attour from Banglamphu, including Thanon Khao San or Khao San Road, Royal Rattanakosin Square, Phra Athit Road, Santhichaiprakan and Wisut Krasat. In the suburbs of the city, you will have to go to Praokong!

In Pattaya, south of Bangkok, the party is intoxicating but can become excessive.

In Phuket, live music and traditional performances are part of the party. If you want to party until the early morning, then head to Bangla Road, where you'll find the liveliest nightclubs.