What is Songkran?

Songkran, celebrated from April 13th to April 15th, is the traditional Thai New Year festival known for its water-throwing festivities, which symbolize cleansing and renewal. Originally rooted in the Buddhist tradition of sprinkling water on statues of Buddha for blessings and then gently pouring it over the hands of elders for good fortune, Songkran has evolved into a vibrant, nationwide water fight. This festive and spirited event is marked by a joyful atmosphere where people splash water on each other as a way to wash away the misfortunes of the past year and welcome the new year with a fresh start.

History and Origin

Songkran is derived from the Sanskrit word “saṃkrānti,” meaning transformation or change. The festival aligns with the sun’s transition from Pisces to Aries, marking the beginning of the solar year. Traditionally, Songkran was observed based on astrological calculations, but it is now fixed from April 13th to 15th. The celebration is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions and rituals. Families begin the festival by visiting local temples to pray and offer food to the monks. They also clean their homes and public spaces, symbolizing the desire to rid oneself of bad luck and negative influences.

Who Celebrates Songkran?

• Thai People: Songkran is a significant festival for Thais, celebrated across the country by young and old alike.
• Tourists and Visitors: Many tourists plan their visits to Thailand to participate in this exuberant event.
• Buddhist Practitioners: Buddhists engage in traditional religious ceremonies during Songkran, such as offering alms and attending temple services.
• Expatriate Communities: Thai communities abroad often organize their own Songkran celebrations, maintaining cultural traditions far from home.

Themes and Slogans

Songkran celebrates themes of purification, renewal, and fun. Slogans such as “Splash into the New Year,” “Wash Away the Old, Ring in the New,” and “Celebrate New Beginnings” capture the essence of the festivities, emphasizing rejuvenation and community spirit.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors: Vibrant and bright colors are prominent during Songkran, reflecting the festival’s lively and cheerful nature.
• Symbols: Water, representing cleansing and renewal; Buddha statues, which play a central role in the religious aspects of the festival; and flowers, used in traditional offerings.
• Patterns: Floral patterns and traditional Thai designs are commonly seen in clothing, decorations, and festival paraphernalia.

Most Used Hashtags

• #Songkran
• #ThaiNewYear
• #WaterFestival
• #SongkranFestival
• #Thailand

How to Celebrate

• Participate in Water Fights: Join in the fun of the widespread water fights with locals and tourists alike.
• Visit Temples: Take part in the more solemn tradition of visiting temples to pray, offer food to monks, and gently pour water over Buddha statues for blessings.
• Enjoy Traditional Thai Dances and Music: Attend performances that showcase traditional Thai culture during the festival.
• Sample Thai Cuisine: Indulge in festive Thai dishes that are specially prepared for Songkran.
• Respect Local Customs: While participating in the fun, respect the cultural and religious significance of the festival.

Songkran is a time of exuberance and reverence, blending playful water fights with deep-rooted cultural and religious practices. It is a unique and memorable way to experience Thai culture and to celebrate the New Year with splashes of joy and moments of contemplation.