Songkran is the Thai New Year, which is celebrated on April 14th each year. It is a time for families and friends to come together to celebrate the new year and to wash away bad luck from the past year. Songkran is also known as the "Water Festival" because people throw water at each other to celebrate.

When is Songkran?

Songkran is always celebrated on April 14th, which is the first day of the new year in the Thai solar calendar. In 2024, Songkran will fall on a Sunday.

How is Songkran celebrated?

Songkran is a five-day festival, but the main celebrations take place on April 13th, 14th, and 15th. People typically start their day by visiting a temple to pray and make offerings to the monks. They will then spend the rest of the day throwing water at each other, using buckets, water guns, and hoses. People will also often wear traditional Thai clothing and give each other gifts.

What are some of the customs and traditions of Songkran?

• Songkran water fights: The most well-known custom of Songkran is the water fights. People throw water at each other to wash away bad luck and to bring good luck in the new year.
• Making merit: Many people will visit temples during Songkran to make merit. This is done by giving offerings to the monks and by participating in religious ceremonies.
• Giving gifts: People will often give each other gifts during Songkran. This is a time to show appreciation for family and friends.
• Wearing traditional Thai clothing: Many people will wear traditional Thai clothing during Songkran. This is a way to show respect for Thai culture.
• Eating traditional Thai food: There are many traditional Thai foods that are eaten during Songkran. Some of the most popular dishes include khao niao mamuang (mango sticky rice), tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup), and pad Thai (stir-fried rice noodles).

Where is the best place to celebrate Songkran?

Songkran is celebrated all over Thailand, but some of the most popular places to celebrate include:

• Bangkok: The capital of Thailand, Bangkok, is one of the most popular places to celebrate Songkran. There are water fights happening all over the city, and there are also many special events and festivals taking place.
• Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and is also a popular place to celebrate Songkran. The city has a more traditional feel than Bangkok, and the Songkran celebrations are more laid-back.
• Ayutthaya: Ayutthaya is an ancient city that was once the capital of Thailand. It is a popular place to celebrate Songkran because of its many temples and historical ruins.

Tips for celebrating Songkran

• Dress appropriately: You will get wet during Songkran, so wear clothes that you don't mind getting wet. You may also want to bring a change of clothes.
• Protect your belongings: Keep your valuables safe in a waterproof bag or at your hotel.
• Be respectful: Be respectful of Thai culture and customs. Avoid throwing water at monks or at people who are not participating in the water fights.
• Have fun: Songkran is a time to have fun and celebrate. So relax, let loose, and enjoy the festivities!