Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai: A Guide to Thailand’s New Year Celebration

Get Ready to Get Wet : Celebrate New Beginnings with Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai

Songkran Festival is the traditional Thai New Year celebration, and it takes place annually in mid-April. This festival is celebrated throughout Thailand and is known for its water-based activities, which symbolize purification and renewal. During the festival, the Thai people come together to celebrate the start of the new year and to make offerings to the gods. 

History of Songkran Festival: 

The history of Songkran Festival dates back to ancient times, when the festival was used to mark the start of the rainy season and the end of the harvest season. The festival was originally celebrated as a time for families to come together, make offerings to the gods, and pour scented water over Buddha statues to symbolize purification and renewal. Over time, the festival has evolved to include the water-based activities that it is now famous for.

Activities during Songkran Festival: 

• During Songkran Festival, many Thai people take part in merit-making activities such as offering alms to Buddhist monks. This is done by preparing food and other offerings, and then presenting them to the monks as a way of making merit and ensuring good luck for the coming year. 
• During the festival, it is traditional to pour scented water over the hands of elders and others as a sign of respect. This is seen as a way of purifying the body and the soul, and it is also believed to bring good luck for the coming year. 
• The Buddha Sihing image of Wat Phra Sing in Chiang Mai is one of the main attractions during the Songkran Festival. During the festival, the image is invited to participate in the celebrations and is carried through the streets on a special carriage. People offer water to the image as a sign of respect, and it is a central part of the festival’s activities. The procession of the Buddha Sihing image is a highlight of the Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai, and it is an opportunity for locals and visitors to pay homage to the image and to participate in the traditional celebration of the Thai New Year. 
• One of the most famous activities during Songkran Festival is the water splash fights that take place in the streets. Participants use water guns, hoses, and buckets to soak each other, and the streets are filled with laughter and fun.

Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai 

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular places to celebrate Songkran Festival, and the city comes alive with street parties, parades, and traditional dance performances. The water fights are particularly lively in Chiang Mai, and the city is filled with the sounds of splashing water and laughter. Visitors to Chiang Mai during Songkran Festival are sure to have a memorable experience, and they can immerse themselves in the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the city. 

Where Tourists Can Participate in Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai 

• Stroll Along the Moat: One of the best places to experience the water fights during Songkran Festival is along the moat that surrounds the old city of Chiang Mai. This area is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, and it is the perfect place to get involved in the water fights.
• Thapae Gate: Another popular place to celebrate Songkran Festival is at Thapae Gate, which is one of the main entrances to the old city of Chiang Mai. This area is filled with street vendors and food stalls, and it is also a popular gathering place for locals and tourists. 
• Nimmanhaemin Road: Nimmanhaemin Road is a trendy area in Chiang Mai that is popular with tourists. During Songkran Festival, this area is filled with water fights and street parties, and it is a great place to experience the festive atmosphere of the festival.

Do’s and Don’ts During Songkran Festival

• Dress Modestly: When participating in Songkran Festival, it is important to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious and cultural sites. 
• Respect Local Customs: Respect for local customs and traditions should be maintained, especially in regards to pouring water on elders and others. 
• Avoid Inappropriate Behavior: Public displays of affection and any inappropriate behavior should be avoided. 
• Avoid Disrespectful Behavior: Excessive drinking and any behavior that may be considered disrespectful should also be avoided. 
• Protect Valuables: To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important to protect valuables. 
• Avoid Swallowing Water: Avoid swallowing water during the festival. 
• Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. 
• Dress Appropriately: Dressing appropriately, including wearing goggles and a swimsuit if necessary, is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Songkran Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Thailand, and Chiang Mai is one of the best places to experience the festival. Visitors are invited to join in the water fights, street parties, and other activities, and to immerse themselves in the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the city. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Songkran Festival is sure to be a highlight of your time in Thailand.