Fun rituals of Thai New Year: Songkran’s joyful traditions

Thai New Year, or Songkran, celebrated from April 13 to 15, is one of the most spirited and fun-filled festivals in Southeast Asia. While it has traditional roots, Songkran is best known today for its lively, social, and joyful rituals that bring communities together in celebration.

Songkran: Splash, smile, repeat

At the heart of the festivities is the iconic water fight. Streets across Thailand transform into splash zones where locals and tourists alike join in with buckets, water guns, and even hoses. What began as a gentle symbolic gesture of sprinkling water to wash away the old year has now become a full-blown nationwide water battle. In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, major roads are closed off for massive water parties that can go on for days. It’s a time to get soaked, laugh freely, and enjoy the summer heat with a cool splash.

Street style and sweet treats

Another playful tradition during Songkran is the smearing of scented powder or paste on people’s faces. Originally done by elders as a blessing for good luck, this custom has evolved into a fun and friendly gesture among friends. It’s common to see people walking around with streaks of white paste on their cheeks, giving off a festive and humorous vibe.

Street parades add to the excitement, with traditional dancers, musicians, and decorated floats weaving through towns. Floats often carry Buddha statues, which people gently splash with water as a gesture of goodwill and cheer. Beauty pageants known as Miss Songkran contests are also held, celebrating cultural fashion and community pride.

Of course, no Thai festival is complete without food. During Songkran, streets are lined with stalls offering delicious Thai snacks, iced desserts, and refreshing drinks to cool off from the heat. Many families gather for outdoor meals or host parties at home between water battles.

Songkran’s fun rituals—vivid, inclusive, and completely joyful—make it more than just a festival. It’s a carefree celebration of life, connection, and shared laughter that brings the entire country together.