Songkran Festival In Thailand 2025

Just wrapped up the Holi festival in India, but still riding the festive vibe? If the kid inside you still wants to play with the water guns, then the Songkran festival is for you. Songkran Festival in Thailand is the most famous festival in the country, celebrated with water fights and deep-rooted cultural traditions. This vibrant three-day event marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year and is one of the most anticipated holidays, drawing thousands of visitors to the country each year.

Known for its joyous water fights and cultural celebrations, Songkran attracts locals and international travellers alike. So, let’s get to know what the Songkran festival is and get some insider tips on the biggest water festival in the world. This is where there are parades, booze, and unlimited fun.

Why are there water fights during Songkran?

The water fights have become synonymous with the Songkran festival.

The festival’s first day is traditionally marked with spring cleaning and a water pouring ceremony. During this, scented water is poured onto sacred Buddha images in temples. This symbolically represents purification, or the washing away of the previous year to welcome the New Year.

On the second day, young people pay respect to their elders by pouring scented water over their hands and feet in return for blessings and floral garlands, and offerings are made to monks and temples.

Then, the fun part comes when the streets are filled with revellers, live music, dance performances, and elaborate parades. These events bring together locals and tourists for a memorable giant water fight involving super soakers, buckets of ice water, loud music, and street parties.

Thailand Songkran Festival Dates

Songkran festival is often referred to as the Songkran Thailand water festival because the most recognizable aspect of the celebration is the massive water fights that take place nationwide. Songkran, a national holiday in Thailand, officially begins on April 13th each year. It is celebrated annually from April 13th to 15th. However, most celebrations start at least a week in advance and go on until April 16th.

Where to Celebrate the Songkran Holiday?

Songkran 2025 will be celebrated across Thailand, but some cities and regions are particularly famous for their extravagant festivities. Here are some of the best places to travel to and join the fun:

Songkran 2025 Bangkok

Khaosan Road and Silom Road are at the heart of the action in the capital. These areas attract thousands of locals and tourists alike for days of water fights, live music, and street parties. Silom Road, especially, is LGBTQ-friendly and known for its vibrant atmosphere. The Siam Songkran Music Festival also takes place during the festival, featuring live performances by local and international DJs.

Songkran 2025 Chiang Mai

Known as the cultural capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai is often considered the best place to experience Songkran. The entire city gets involved, with the Old City moat providing an endless water supply. The city also hosts cultural performances and more traditional celebrations, such as temple visits, making it a good mix of modern and ancient practices.

Songkran 2025 Phuket and Koh Samui

A popular tourist destination, these islands also join in the Songkran madness with beach parties, water fights, and live music, all while offering scenic backdrops. You’ll find plenty of excitement in Phuket’s Patong Beach or Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui.

Songkran 2025 Hua Hin

If you want a more relaxed version of the Songkran celebration, Hua Hin offers a more subdued celebration. It still hosts water fights and festivities but without the overwhelming intensity of the bigger cities. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience the festival with a balance of local and tourist vibes.

Songkran 2025 Pattaya

Pattaya extends Songkran for a whole week for those who love the sun, sea, and sand, giving you even more time to soak up the fun. Pattaya’s beachfront and streets are packed with people enjoying the festivities, offering a beachside version of Songkran that is as energetic as it is entertaining.

Songkran Etiquette and Tips to Visit Songkran Festival

1. Waterproof pouches: Protect your phone, wallet, and other valuables by storing them in a dry bag or waterproof pouch. Street vendors sell these in the lead-up to Songkran. Also, keep a Dry bag to keep your belongings safe and dry throughout the day.
2. Waterproof footwear: Rubber sandals or water shoes are a good idea since your feet will be wet for most of the festival.
3. Water gun: From basic squirt guns to giant Super Soakers, you’ll find plenty of options at local shops. It’s your essential weapon for Songkran.
4. Eye protection: Goggles or sunglasses will help protect your eyes from being accidentally sprayed.
5. Dress modestly: Despite the playful atmosphere, it’s essential to dress appropriately. Wearing revealing clothing could result in fines or arrests. Any colorful button-down shirt has become the unofficial uniform of Songkran. If you don’t have one, you’ll find plenty of options in the markets.
6. Respect non-participants: Check before splashing water on someone. Respect the non-participants and avoid throwing water at the elderly, monks, pregnant women, or young children.
7. Be gentle with water splashes: Don’t spray water directly at people’s faces or too aggressively. Also, avoid soaking motorbike riders, as this could cause accidents.

Celebrate Songkran Festival with Team TripzyGo

The Thailand Songkran festival is more than just a water fight; it’s a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in Thai culture and traditions. Celebrated annually from April 13th to 15th, Songkran marks the Thai New Year and is a time for renewal, purification, and unity. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural heart of Chiang Mai, the lively street parties in Bangkok, or the beachside festivities in Phuket and Koh Samui, consider planning your trip to Thailand with TripzyGo for Songkran 2025, the biggest water festival in the world.