The Songkran Music Festival in Thailand is celebrated every year and is one of the most unique festivals around the world. It is famous for renewals, fun, and water fights in a vibrant atmosphere. So, get ready for this exciting festive season this year.
In 1989, the Thai government decided that Songkran, a big festival, would be celebrated from April 12th to 14th. But, traditionally, Songkran was supposed to start at a very specific time on April 13th. This timing was calculated using ancient Thai methods based on the movement of the sun. The festival begins when the sun moves into the Aries sign, and this day is called Maha Songkran Day.
History & Significance Of Songkran Festival In Thailand
Maha Songkran Dates For 2025
This year, the water festival is on dates April 13 to 15. But you can enjoy an extended period of celebration at Pattaya till April 18 and 19. So, be there!
Traditional Aspects
The word “Songkran” means “passing of the Sun from one zodiac to another,” which marks the beginning of Thai New Year 2025. Locals clean their homes to remove any evil or bad luck from the past and embrace the new beginning.
Merit Making And Family Gatherings
The festival has many merit-making ceremonies at temples where people offer food and clothing to monks and sprinkle scented water on Buddha figurines to wash away all bad luck.
Modern Water Fights
The modern face of the Thailand Songkran Festival is water pouring has turned into water fights at large scale. You can see people in water fights across the street all around the country. People arm themselves for a friendly battle with water guns, buckets, and hoses, spreading joy and creating a refreshing atmosphere.
What Makes Songkran Crazy?
Water Fights: This is the highlight of Water Festival Thailand. During this time (April 13 to April 15), the entire street becomes a battleground where locals and tourists engage in friendly water warfare. The tropical heat is washed away by water splashes, making the day cooler and enjoyable.
Vibrant And Festive Atmosphere: You can see the colorful decorations, parades, music, dance, and traditional performances around the streets. We bet you won’t be able to hold yourself back from participating.
Traditions And Customs: You can find many people dressed up in their traditional clothing. You will see Buddha images in parades throughout the streets.
Key Highlights In Pattaya: This year, Pattaya is celebrating Songkran Festival 2025 early, on the 13th and 14th of April. The Beach Road is where you can watch water fights and celebrations. The entire road is filled with people with their armed water guns. During Songkran, Walking Street became a major hub for music, dance, and water fights, too.
Tip: You can visit Sanctuary of Truth for a quieter and more traditional experience and watch merit-making ceremonies and cultural performances.
Essential Tips For Attending Songkran Festival 2025
Waterproof Everything: Given water will be all around, it is best to protect your expensive gadgets like smartphones, wallets, and other valuables from getting wet. You can carry a waterproof bag to store things safely. However, we won’t suggest carrying heavy bags and a lot of cash.
What To Pack: Ensure to pack light as you will be on foot most of the time. Local tuk-tuk will be available for longer distances. You can bring sunblock, a hat, a towel, sunglasses, and waterproof shoes/ sandals.
What To Wear: Wear something comfortable and light as the weather will be hot. You can opt for quick-drying clothes and carry an extra pair of clothes. Many people during the Songkran Water Festival choose to wear bright-colored shirts with shorts. Try traditional Thai dress if you want to fully experience the feel of the festival.
Embrace the Chaos: Songkran is all about fun and splashing water, and it embraces a new beginning. So, go with an open mind and be prepared to get wet.
Safety Tips: Ensure you take a timely break and hydrate yourself. You can carry a refillable water bottle to avoid heat. If you are traveling in a group, stay together, be mindful of local customs, and pay respect to the traditions. Avoid water puddles and slipping surfaces.
Early Booking: The Songkran Festival in Thailand attracts a large volume of tourists from all across the globe. Therefore, it is crucial to book your living arrangements, transportation, and any special events early to avoid last-minute hassle. You can use reputable DMCs in Thailand for bookings and consider staying in the main areas for convenience.
Foods And Drinks To Enjoy During Thai New Year 2025
Popular Thai Dishes And Street Food
Songkran is a great time to enjoy Thai cuisine. You can try out local food from street stalls or local restaurants. We recommend trying out:
- Pad Thai
- Som Tum (papaya salad)
- Mango sticky rice
- Grilled skewers
The street is filled with the aroma of these local food items. We bet you won’t be able to resist it.
Local Beverages And Refreshments
Make sure to stay hydrated during the Thailand Songkran Festival. You can opt for:
- Thai iced tea
- Fresh coconut water
- Fruit shakes and juices
Some places also sell local beers and other refreshing beverages. But, we will advise to drink in moderation if you are with a group and avoid alcohol if traveling solo, as streets are going to be very busy.
Must-Visit Food Stalls And Market In Pattaya
Pattaya has a no. of food stalls and marketplaces to savor local food and drinks. You can choose Night Bazaar, Thepprasit Road Night Market, etc., which are popular spots for local dishes and drinks. It’s a must-visit for food lovers.
Soak Into The Songkran Madness With Us
Get ready to dive into the water festival in Thailand. Come and join millions of people participating in this grand Songkran Water Festival for a water-filled adventure. Join Pattaya's extended celebrations on the 18th and 19th of April for an unforgettable experience. Call us at +66 90245 1584 for an early booking for the Songkran Festival 2025.
We can curate an entire weekend tour pack for you as per your taste. So, call today and take advantage of the ongoing offers!
Suk San Wan Song Kran!
