In Thailand, the heat is ramping up, water guns are being sold, and floral shirts are now on display. There is no denying it: it is Songkran season, or Thai New Year. Songkran is arguably the biggest festival in Thailand, and the nationwide celebration draws many visitors. If you are visiting the Land of Smiles during this auspicious celebration, here is a helpful guide to Songkran Festival 2024.
But what exactly can you expect at Songkran Festival 2024? We’ve got the gist for you.
Songkran Festival 2024: A helpful guide for first-timers
What is Songkran?
Songkran Festival 2024 is a time when the whole country participates in an all-out water war. It is a great way to cool off during the hottest month of the year, but the Thai New Year is so much more than just water fights and a lengthy holiday.
The Songkran Festival marks the traditional Thai New Year. The water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal, essentially a time to “wash off” the problems of the past 12 months as you step into the new year. In fact, “Songkran” originates from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti, which means “to step into.”
Thai New Year is usually celebrated from 13 to 15 April but the Songkran Festival 2024 is special because UNESCO has recognised the festival as an “intangible cultural heritage of humanity.”The government then said that the festivities will be extended this year starting from 1 to 21 April. However, water fights will still only be allowed from 13 to 15 April.
Aside from the water fights, temples will also have fairs that have games and street food which are worth a visit. They are great places to have dinner after an all-day water war.
I don’t have a water gun.
Fret not. The supermarkets and 7-Elevens are well prepared and have toy guns ready to be purchased. The mileage quality may vary, of course. If you want to have a real badass gun, perhaps try Toys R Us. Evidently, that will cost you more.
Also, a water gun is not strictly necessary. A bucket works too. Basically, any receptacle you can put water in and dump on a person later is totally viable for Songkran Festival 2024.
If you are already prepping to head out into the water war, make sure you are wearing the right outfit: the iconic floral shirts of Songkran. These are readily available in malls and supermarkets so you can step out with some serious Songkran drip.
Awesome. So I can just drench anyone?
Well, yeah, technically. For those three days, it is a free-for-all water fight. You drench people and they will drench you back.
Of course, you need to be mindful. Some people do not want to get wet and will politely ask that you hold back your trigger finger. There are also elderly people that you need to be aware of. Basically, do not splash every random person.
Right, got it.
One last thing: watch where you aim. Do not shoot people in the face and definitely not in the eyes.
You mentioned some people do not want to get wet. Are there certain Songkran Festival 2024 “safe zones” in the city?
Actually, no, but there are certain places in the city where the “war” is quieter and places where it is a major “battleground”. If you want to get the full Songkran experience, go to Siam, Khao San, and Silom for a true water battle. It is pretty crowded, so take note. Meanwhile, places like Sathon, Thong Lor, and Phrom Phong are a little quieter. You can factor that in when booking hotels in case you want a place that is not steeped in water fights.
So is there no staying dry during Thai New Year?
It is possible to still go out but it is almost impossible to stay dry when the whole city is engaged in drenching one another. Having that mindset helps you not be a jerk to someone who dunks water on you. Any other day, you can complain, but it is part of the festivities.
What about my phone?
Fret not. You can buy resealable plastic bags to hang around your neck and put your phone in. Just make sure the quality is good or else water can still get in. If you are desperate, you can buy a Ziploc bag from the supermarket.
It seems like I will be walking a lot — or are there other ways to get around the city during Songkran Festival 2024?
Ride-hailing apps like Grab are still in operation though it might be difficult to get a car with road closures and the crowds. You can take the trains but with the air conditioning on, be prepared for a very chilly ride. The fun of Songkran is walking and drenching people you come across, so stick to walking.
I need to sit down and take a break after all that walking. I can still go into the malls, right?
Of course, but like the trains, they will be very cold if you’re drenched. There are also other wet people walking in, it can also get a bit disgusting, especially in standalone establishments like McDonald’s. If you are hungry, a quick stop at 7-Eleven may do the trick (still cold and icky, and also crowded). If there is a nearby temple, there might be street food around.
Can I refill my water guns at the malls?
Some establishments make it very clear that refilling water guns is not allowed. There will be plenty of people allowing you to refill on the street, usually for a small fee.
Alright. I am ready!
That you are. Happy drenching!
FAQs
What does Songkran Festival 2024 celebrate?
It celebrates the Thai New Year.
Why do they throw water at Songkran?
It signifies cleansing and renewal.
Is Songkran a Hindu festival?
It has roots in a Hindu spring festival that was celebrated in ancient India.
Is Songkran the same date every year?
Yes, it is on 13 – 15 April.
Is Songkran Festival 2024 a religious holiday?
Yes. Aside from the water fights, people visit the temples during Songkran.
(Hero and featured images credit: 威武 杨/Pixabay)
