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Songkran festival Thailand 2026: Dates, traditions, and travel tips
Songkran festival in Thailand takes place from April 13 to 15. Here are important dates, top things to do, where to celebrate Songkran, and travel tips.
The Songkran festival is widely known as Thailand’s famous water festival. It marks the traditional Thai New Year and takes place from April 13 to 15, 2026. In this guide, we explain what Songkran is, how it’s celebrated by locals and tourists alike, where to go, dos and don’ts, and what to prepare.
Below is a snapshot of what you can expect during the Songkran festival in Thailand in 2026:
| Official dates | April 13–15, 2026 |
| Main locations | – Bangkok (Silom Road and Khao San Road celebrations)– Chiang Mai (traditional parades and moat water fights)– Phuket and Pattaya (beachfront festivals and street parties) |
| Typical hours | – Water celebrations: Late morning to evening– Temple rituals and merit-making: Early morning onward– Major city events may continue into the night |
| Admission | Free in most public areas; some organized parties or special events may charge entry fees |
| Best time to visit | Morning for temple traditions and cultural rituals; afternoon for water celebrations; earlier festival days (April 13–14) are usually less crowded than the final day |
| Highlights | Large public water fights, Buddha image bathing rituals, temple visits, street parades, music events, local food stalls, and family gatherings |
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What is the Songkran festival?
The Songkran festival is Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, held over three consecutive days from April 13 to 15 each year and considered one of the country’s most important holidays.
- April 13, known as Songkran, marks the start of the new year.
- April 14, known as Wan Klang or Wan Nao, is a time for preparation and family activities.
- April 15, known as Wan Taleung, focuses on religious ceremonies and merit-making.
It is widely recognized as the Thailand water festival, known for playful water splashing and lively gatherings across communities. The name Songkran comes from the Sanskrit word saṅkrānti, meaning “transition” or “new beginning,” and reflects the idea of washing away the past year’s misfortune to welcome a new beginning.
Songkran festival Thailand 2026 dates
Songkran in 2026 will be celebrated from April 13 to April 15, following the traditional three-day schedule observed across Thailand. These dates are recognized as national public holidays, when many offices, banks, and some businesses close or operate on limited hours while families travel and take part in celebrations.
It is one of the busiest travel periods in the country, so transport and accommodation fill quickly, especially in major cities and tourist areas. The nationwide celebrations and cultural traditions are why this period is often considered the best time to visit Thailand.
How is the Songkran festival celebrated in Thailand?
Songkran blends temple traditions with lively street celebrations, and the experience can vary depending on where you are in Thailand. From cultural rituals and family activities in temple areas to large-scale water fights, parades, and music events in major cities, the festival highlights some of the most memorable things to do in Thailand.
Traditional Songkran customs
Many people begin the new year by visiting temples, offering food to monks, and taking part in prayer ceremonies.
Gently pouring scented water over Buddha statues and over the hands of elders symbolizes cleansing, respect, and good fortune for the year ahead. Homes are often cleaned, and families gather to share meals and spend time together.
Plan morning temple visits and dress modestly if you wish to see the cultural side of Songkran. Well-known places to experience traditional celebrations include Chiang Mai’s historic temples, Bangkok’s Wat Pho and Wat Arun, and quieter provincial towns where community rituals remain the focus.
Modern Thailand water festival celebrations
Alongside traditions, Songkran has grown into one of Thailand’s largest public celebrations. Major cities host large street water fights, music stages, parades, and organized festivals that attract both locals and travellers.
Areas such as central Bangkok, Chiang Mai’s old city, and popular beach destinations become lively gathering spots filled with water play and entertainment throughout the day, where people splash water on one another, enjoy live performances, and join community celebrations that last from morning until evening.
Best places to experience the Songkran festival in Thailand
Songkran is celebrated nationwide, but each destination offers a different atmosphere. Choose the right location to get the festival experience that matches your travel style.
Bangkok
Bangkok is known for energetic, city-wide celebrations and some of the biggest public water fights in Thailand. With Silom Road and Khao San Road transforming into lively party zones full of music, crowds, Thai street food, and nonstop water splashing, joining the Songkran festivities easily ranks among the top things to do in Bangkok.
Best for: Large crowds, nightlife, and high-energy street celebrations.
Tip! Bangkok is close to many other destinations, so don’t miss our guide to the best day trips from Bangkok.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is often considered the heart of Songkran, where traditional customs and large celebrations come together inside the historic old city. Water activities take place around the old city moat, alongside temple ceremonies, parades, and cultural events, offering one of the most complete and authentic Songkran experiences.
Best for: Cultural traditions, parades, and a balanced mix of heritage and celebration.
Phuket
Phuket combines beach holiday relaxation with festive street celebrations. Popular beach areas host water fights, music, and nightlife, creating a fun and social atmosphere for those who want a tropical setting alongside modern Thailand water festival celebrations.
Best for: Beach parties, social travellers, and a resort-style festival atmosphere.
What to prepare for the Songkran festival in Thailand?
A little preparation can help you stay comfortable, protect your belongings, and enjoy the busy days of the Songkran festival in Thailand with fewer problems. Here are the most useful things to pack for Thailand when joining the festival:
- Light, quick-dry clothing that can get wet and stays comfortable in the heat.
- Secure footwear with good grip for slippery streets.
- Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag to protect devices, cash, and travel documents.
- A small amount of cash instead of carrying valuables or important items.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for long hours outdoors.
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the celebrations.
- Basic travel insurance and emergency contacts saved on your phone.
- A change of dry clothes for comfort after the festivities.
- A travel eSIM so you can stay connected throughout the whole festival.
Songkran festival etiquette and safety tips
Knowing basic etiquette can help you enjoy the Songkran festival in Thailand respectfully and avoid common mistakes. Below are simple dos and don’ts for the Thailand water festival, including a few safety tips to remember.
| Do ✅ | Don’t ❌ |
|---|---|
| Be respectful during religious activities and family traditions. | Point water at monks, temple visitors, or very young children. |
| Step aside if someone does not want to join the water splashing. | Assume every public place is part of the celebration. |
| Keep your belongings protected from water and crowds. | Carry important documents without waterproof protection. |
| Take care on wet streets and allow extra travel time. | Mix heavy drinking with driving or motorbike travel. |
| Look after children closely in busy celebration areas. | Push through dense crowds or unsafe street gatherings. |
| Wear light, comfortable clothing that can get wet, such as quick-dry fabrics, and secure footwear. | Use high-pressure water guns or aim water at people’s faces, as this can cause injury or distress. |
Stay connected during the Songkran festival in Thailand with Holafly
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