Understanding Thailand's Water Festival
Thailand's Songkran Festival is one of the most important traditional celebrations in Thailand. It is not only a time to celebrate the new year but also an opportunity for people to wash away the misfortunes and evil of the past year. During this festival, people will splash water on each other as a blessing and participate in various fun activities and traditional rituals. If you plan to attend Thailand's Songkran Festival in 2024, you won't be disappointed. This article will provide you with information about the date, customs, taboos, and activity recommendations for Songkran Festival 2024, as well as hotel accommodation recommendations, to help you prepare in advance and enjoy this unique and unforgettable festival to the fullest.
Date and time of Songkran Festival.
The Songkran festival in Thailand is usually held between April 13th and 15th, but the actual date may vary depending on the region. These three days are considered public holidays in Thailand, and people can participate in the celebrations freely. The highlight of Songkran usually falls between noon and afternoon, when people gather on the streets, using water guns, buckets, and scoops to pour water on each other. This is a joyous and lively time, as people celebrate with family and friends.
* April 13th: Big Songkran, also known as Buddha Bathing Day, Respect for Elders Day
* April 14th: Critical Day, Family Day, offering "Water Ceremony" to elders, showing respect and hoping for blessings
* April 15th: Welcoming Day, marking the approach of a new year
It is worth mentioning that the Thai government has moved this year's 2024 festivities forward by one day, starting on April 12th with a total of five consecutive days off to attract more tourists to participate in this joyous event.
Water Festival Taboos
When participating in Thailand's Songkran Festival, there are some taboos and precautions to note. First, respect local culture and traditions, avoiding discomfort or offense to others. Second, choose appropriate water splashing locations, avoiding temples or other religious sites. Additionally, pay attention to personal safety, protect your belongings, and avoid bringing valuable items to the event. Most importantly, maintain the festive atmosphere and enjoy celebrating with family and friends.
Songkran Water Festival customs
Water Festival has a series of customs and traditions, the most important being the respect for elders and Buddha statues. People will go to temples to pay respects, sprinkling water on Buddha statues to pray for good luck and blessings. This ceremony symbolizes washing away one's soul and welcoming the new year. Besides, people will also apply scented powder on each other's faces, representing blessings and prayers. Apart from the water-throwing and fragrant powder rituals, people will also hold dragon boat races, musical performances, and traditional cultural displays, making the whole Water Festival more lively and interesting.
