Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and Thailand's most famous festival — known worldwide for its joyful, nationwide water fights. It's held every 13–15 April (13 April is a Monday in 2026). But behind the water battles is a centuries-old tradition. Here's the history.
See the Songkran holiday page or Thailand's holiday calendar.
What is Songkran?
Songkran marks the traditional solar New Year celebrated in Thailand and across mainland Southeast Asia. The name comes from a Sanskrit word meaning "passage" or "movement" — referring to the sun's move into a new zodiac position. It traditionally falls in mid-April, when the old year gives way to the new.
The meaning behind the water
The water that Songkran is famous for isn't just for fun — it has symbolic meaning:
- Washing away the old year — water represents cleansing away bad luck and starting the new year fresh.
- Respect and blessing — gently pouring scented water over the hands of elders and monks (rod nam dam hua) is a sign of respect and a request for blessings.
- Buddha images are also bathed with water as an act of devotion.
Over time, this gentle pouring grew into the exuberant street-wide water fights seen today — but the respectful traditions remain at the festival's heart.
How Songkran is celebrated
- Water splashing in streets across the country, especially in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
- Temple visits, merit-making and bathing Buddha statues.
- Paying respect to elders and family reunions.
- Building small sand pagodas at temples.
In 2023, Songkran was added to UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Quick answers
What is Songkran? The traditional Thai New Year, celebrated 13–15 April, known for water fights with deep symbolic and Buddhist roots.
Why do people throw water at Songkran? Water symbolises washing away the old year's bad luck; pouring water over elders and Buddha images is a sign of respect and blessing.
When is Songkran 2026? The main day is Monday, 13 April 2026, with celebrations running 13–15 April.
Is Songkran the Thai New Year? Yes — it's the traditional Thai New Year (the official calendar New Year is 1 January).