Songkran Is Coming: How Thailand Celebrates the Traditional New Year💦

What Is Songkran?

Songkran (สงกรานต์) is Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, held annually from April 13th to 15th, though festivities often stretch across the entire week. The festival marks a time of renewal, reflection, and joy, combining spiritual customs with full-blown street celebrations that have made it famous around the world.

The name “Songkran” comes from the Sanskrit word “Sankranti,” meaning “astrological passage,” signifying the movement of the sun from one zodiac sign to another. In Thailand, this passage historically aligned with the start of a new solar year—making Songkran a time to cleanse and begin again, both literally and spiritually.

Traditional Songkran Customs: More Than Just Water Fights

While international images of Songkran often focus on splashy street water fights, the festival is deeply rooted in Buddhist values, family, and community.

1. Water as a Symbol of Purification

Water plays a central role in Songkran not for mischief, but as a symbol of cleansing and renewal. Traditionally, Thais pour fragrant water over Buddha statues, elders’ hands, and even their homes to wash away misfortune and invite blessings for the year ahead.

2. Rod Nam Dam Hua – Honoring Elders

This respectful ceremony sees younger family members pouring scented water over the palms of their elders, asking for forgiveness and blessings. It’s a heartfelt moment of gratitude, connection, and respect.

3. Merit-Making

Many people begin the festival by visiting temples to make merit: giving alms to monks, releasing fish or birds, and washing Buddha statues with gentle water and flower petals.

4. House Cleaning

It’s customary to clean your home before Songkran—sweeping away the old year’s dust and inviting fresh energy and good fortune.

5. Traditional Dress & Dance

Locals often wear bright floral shirts, Thai silk, and floral garlands, and take part in traditional dances, parades, and beauty pageants celebrating Thai culture.

Modern Songkran: From Sacred to Splashy

In cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, Songkran has transformed into one of the world’s biggest water festivals. Picture entire streets shut down and filled with people armed with buckets, hoses, and water guns, dancing to music and soaking each other in good-natured fun.

These playful water battles are more than a party—they embody the spirit of community, playfulness, and joy that defines Thai culture.

Celebrate Songkran with Authentic Thai Flavors at Sukhothai

We’re honoring the spirit of Songkran the best way we know how—through authentic Thai food made with love.

Whether you’re Thai, celebrating from afar, or simply curious about this beautiful tradition, we invite you to join us in marking the Thai New Year with flavorful dishes that capture the heart of Thailand.

Come and enjoy your favorite classics or try something new from our menu—every bite is a taste of tradition.

Happy Songkran! Wishing you joy, good health, and a fresh start in the new year.