Discovering the Vibrant Traditions of Songkran Water Festival in Thailand

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Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of Songkran Water Festival in Thailand

For many travelers to Thailand, one of the most exciting festivals to experience is the Songkran Water Festival, also known as Thai New Year. Let's delve into this lively celebration with Mytour in the following article!

Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of Songkran Water Festival in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its diverse and unique cultural festivals, which play a significant role in attracting tourists. Among these, the Songkran Water Festival stands out as one of the most important and vibrant celebrations.

In Thailand, Buddhism is the national religion, so the country celebrates the New Year according to the Buddhist calendar. The new year begins with the birth of Lord Siddhartha on April 15th, marked by the ceremonial bathing of Buddha statues in temples, offering fruits and food to monks, releasing birds as a symbolic gesture of liberation, and seeking blessings from elders.

The term 'Songkran' originates from Pali, meaning 'transition', referring to the transition of the sun from the Pisces to Aries zodiac sign. People celebrate the birth of Prince Vessantara by splashing water on each other to wash away the old and welcome the new year. Since 1941, the Thai royal family has decreed that the Songkran Water Festival officially begins on April 13th (Gregorian calendar) every year.

During the festival, numerous parades and beauty pageants are organized. Additionally, traditional dishes are cooked, and people wear colorful costumes. Particularly during Songkran, individuals splash water on each other using buckets, water guns, balloons... and those who get splashed more are considered luckier.

Wan Payawan marks the beginning of the new year. It starts with several rituals at the temple in the early morning, where people offer food and clothing. At home, images of the Buddha are cleaned and scented water is sprinkled. Wan Payawan also kicks off the water splashing festival. Finally, Wan Parg-bpee is a day for prayers, honoring the elderly and ancestors, and sprinkling sacred water.

Traveling to Thailand during this time allows tourists to join in the water splashing festival to seek good fortune. Regardless of age or gender, everyone blends into the festive atmosphere on this day.

By Mytour

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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide

MytourFebruary 16, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main activities that take place during the Songkran Water Festival in Thailand?

During the Songkran Water Festival, travelers can enjoy a variety of activities including water splashing, parades, and traditional beauty pageants. Additionally, it's common to see people offering food to monks, bathing Buddha statues, and wearing colorful costumes, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

How does the Songkran Water Festival symbolize the New Year in Thailand?

The Songkran Water Festival symbolizes the New Year as it celebrates the birth of Lord Siddhartha on April 15th according to the Buddhist calendar. This transition is marked by ceremonial bathing of Buddha statues, offering fruits to monks, and engaging in water splashing as a way to wash away the old and welcome the new.

What rituals are performed on Wan Payawan during the Songkran celebrations?

On Wan Payawan, rituals include offering food and clothing at temples, cleaning and decorating Buddha images at home, and sprinkling scented water. This day marks the start of the water splashing festivities, emphasizing the importance of seeking blessings and good fortune for the new year.

Is the Songkran Water Festival an inclusive event for people of all ages and backgrounds?

Yes, the Songkran Water Festival is an inclusive event that welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds. Regardless of gender or age, everyone can join in the festivities, making it a lively and community-oriented celebration.

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