Dubbed "the world's biggest water fight" by local and international media, the event is celebrated all over Thailand and its neighbouring countries (Photo: 123RF)
Songkran signals the start of the traditional Thai New Year, and what initially began as the ritual pouring of water as a symbol of self-cleansing, reverence and good fortune has evolved into a spectacular festival that involves splashing everyone and everything around with joyful abandon. It is customarily observed for three days, starting from April’s first full moon, although its popularity has now extended the revelry somewhat.
Local and international media hail it as “the world’s biggest water fight” and, while it is celebrated all over Thailand as well as in neighbouring countries like Laos and Cambodia, most of the action will be concentrated in Bangkok’s Sanam Luang, a vast open ground converted into a multipurpose leisure park near the northern wall of the Grand Palace.
This year’s festival will be divided into a series of distinct zones, focusing on the five regions of the country. Expect a bustling marketplace offering local products and delicacies, temple fair activities, classical performances, sand pagoda building and merit-making activities. There will also be drone shows and live music by artistes and top DJs.
As this is also the hottest time of the year, Songkran is a season of fun. But be sure to come prepared: waterproof footwear or simple rubber flip-flops are ideal, as is a waterproof bag to keep mobile phones safe and dry. Goggles and ear plugs are also a good idea to protect eyes and ears. Super Soakers and expensive water guns are for the gung-ho. If not, a simple bucket would do the job just as well. April 12 and 13 will also see eight spectacular Grand Songkran parades taking place along Ratchadamnoen Klang Road.
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This story first appeared on Mar 31, 2025 in The Edge Malaysia.
