For four days each April, Thailand comes alive as locals and foreigners come together to celebrate one of the most fun-filled events of the year: Songkran.

At its core, Songkran is a festival that celebrates the traditional Thai New Year. The festival is marked by water fights, street parties, and other festivities, making it a must for adventurous travelers 

But where did it all begin? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating origins of Songkran.

Read on for everything you need to know. 

The Historical Roots of Songkran

Songkran can be traced back to ancient times. Traditionally, the festival was a way to honor the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new agricultural season. The word “Songkran” is derived from the Sanskrit word “samkranti”, which means “astrological passage”.

Over time, the festival evolved into a way to pay homage to elders, reconnect with family, and seek blessings for the new year. 

Today, Songkran is celebrated not just in Thailand, but also in other parts of Southeast Asia, such as Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

The Traditions of Songkran

As mentioned earlier, Songkran is marked by water fights, street parties, and other festivities. However, there are many other, lesser-known traditions associated with the festival.

One of the most important traditions is the pouring of water over Buddha statues. This symbolizes the washing away of sins and bad luck. Other customs include the creation of sand pagodas, the giving of alms (food offerings) to monks, and the lighting of candles and incense.

Most Thai people enjoy festive meals with their family over the Songkran period, giving them a reconnect with friends and relatives from other provinces.

Celebrating Songkran Today

While Songkran has its roots in ancient traditions, the festival has evolved to become a modern celebration of the Thai New Year. Today, people from all walks of life come together to participate in the festivities, which include concerts, parades, and other events.

If you’re planning to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, take some time to learn about some of the customs and traditions associated with the festival. For example, it’s customary to dress in traditional Thai clothing, and to show respect to elders and other members of the community.

Remember that Songkran is a religious festival, and you should conduct yourself accordingly. Although drinking and partying have become an undeniable part of the festivities, be sure to show some restraint and respect local sensibilities.

Understanding the Tradition of Songkran

Songkran is a festival with ancient cultural origins, but it has evolved to become a modern New Year’s celebration.

Whether you’re participating in the water fights and street parties, or simply observing the customs and traditions of the festival, Songkran is a time for joy, happiness, and community.

If you’re interested in learning more about Songkran, check out the rest of our blog for more information. We’ve got plenty of resources and articles on the topic, and we’re always happy to share our knowledge with others.