Songkran 2026 in Thailand

Songkran marks the Thai New Year, celebrated with water fights, religious ceremonies, and family gatherings. People visit temples, clean Buddha images, and sprinkle water as a symbol of cleansing, renewal, and good fortune for the year ahead.

Songkran: A Public Holiday?

Songkran is an official public holiday in Thailand, observed over three days from April 13 to 15, during which government offices, schools, banks, and most businesses close as people celebrate the Thai New Year with water festivities, religious rituals, and family gatherings. If any of these days fall on a weekend, substitute holidays are often declared on weekdays to ensure the full holiday period is observed.

Songkran

Songkran, the Thai New Year, has deep cultural and religious roots that date back centuries. The word Songkran comes from a Sanskrit term meaning 'to move' or 'change,' symbolizing the sun's shift into a new zodiac. Originally based on ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Songkran was closely linked to seasonal changes and agricultural cycles, marking a time of renewal and cleansing. The festival eventually became associated with water, which symbolizes purification and the washing away of bad luck.

Over time, Songkran developed into one of Thailand's most important festivals, blending spiritual rituals with joyful celebrations. The practice of gently pouring water over Buddha statues, elders, and family members reflects respect, gratitude, and good wishes for the new year. While modern celebrations now include lively water fights in the streets, the festival continues to honor its traditional roots. Songkran remains a cherished time for family reunions, religious observances, and national unity, deeply woven into Thailand's cultural identity.

Observance of Songkran in Thailand

Songkran is celebrated across Thailand with a vibrant mix of traditional and modern activities. The festival officially lasts from April 13 to 15, but preparations often begin days earlier. On the first day, many people visit temples to make merit, offer food to monks, and pour scented water over Buddha statues as a sign of purification. Families also perform a water-pouring ceremony called 'Rod Nam Dam Hua,' where younger members respectfully pour water over the hands of elders to seek blessings and express gratitude.

Songkran transforms into lively street festivals in public spaces, especially in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. People of all ages engage in playful water fights using buckets, water guns, and hoses, turning entire streets into joyful battlegrounds. Tourists and locals join together in the fun, while music, parades, and cultural shows add to the festive atmosphere. Despite the excitement, many also take time to clean their homes and pay respect at family altars, keeping the festival's spiritual meaning alive.

Songkran holds great importance as more than just a festive holiday. It is a time for family reunions, reflection, and renewal. The festival strengthens community bonds and promotes values of respect, kindness, and gratitude. It also serves as a bridge between generations, passing cultural traditions to younger Thais. The water symbolizes a fresh start, washing away negativity and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead. As one of Thailand's most beloved celebrations, Songkran reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and the joyful spirit of its people.

Songkran Observances