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How much do we love Songkran? Let us count the ways: a long extended break from the perils of work and traffic, refreshing splashes of cold water at every corner, contagious smiles and happiness during the most scorching part of the year. But that’s not the whole story when it comes to Songkran. What lies underneath this fun water war zone is a traditional, beautiful, Thai festival, and that’s something that every Songkran celebrator should know.
In collaboration with ThaiBev, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Culture, Royal Thai Navy, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Udon Thani, along with other associations, held the third “Water Festival 2017” event on April 13-16 under the concept of Thai New Year blessings, gathering locals and tourists together to feel the magic of the Thai traditional way of life.
The beautifully decorated festival, complete with Thai music and dancing, was held throughout the four regions of Thailand, so that every visitor to Thailand could learn and experience the authentic Thai culture and values.
Are you regretting spending Songkran binge watching Netflix? Or smashed in the human traffic of Silom? If you missed this cultural event and you’re feeling a bit of FOMO, don’t worry! We’re going to show you exactly what it was like. (And you can look forward to next year!)
In Bangkok, the event was held in 7 different areas along the stretch of the Chao Phraya River from the well-worshiped temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, Wat Kalayanamitr, and Wat Prayoonwongsawat to the famous piers of Asiatique the Riverfront, Yodpiman River Walk and Tha Maharaj.
What was in store for the event-goers, you ask? Well, you know what we usually do on Songkran. Attack anybody within reach with ice cold water, right? Ok, yes, but we also pour water onto images and statues of Buddha for blessings and good luck. A much more peaceful way to appreciate the holiday, if you ask us. There was also a creative art workshop and auspicious food from four regions of Thailand was served. The riverside food market offered the very best dishes from each province around the country.
The event was also held in Chiang Mai with traditional Songkran celebrations and merit making in Lan Na style, as well as Phuket and Udon Thani.
So what the experience like overall? A true feeling of peace and happiness, being surrounded by the spirit of Thai culture, authentic local customs and heritage, and being able to enjoy it to the fullest. The event was a success, recalling the traditional way of life and spreading the beauty of Thai culture that we’re so proud of to the rest of the world. Learn and see more here or visit their Facebook page to stay updated and look forward to next year.
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