It’s hot here in Thailand and the entire country is gearing up to celebrate Songkran 2013, the Thai New Year, starting next Friday.
Kids warming up for the three-day water fight
Last year was my first time even hearing about the watery festivities of what is essentially a three-day, country-wide water fight. You can read more about the holiday here and here or take a look at fellow travel blogger, Ian’s, experience and photos here. Many businesses shut down for the holiday to give everyone a break to spend time with the friends and families. It’s also practically impossible to get anywhere, especially in areas known for their celebrations like certain parts of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, without getting stopped and soaked.
I’ll be stocking up on food and water for when I want a respite from the heat and hoopla (yes, I just used the word ‘hoopla’), but will be out ‘playing’ with the rest of them here in Chiang Mai.
If you’ll be in Thailand during this time, hopefully you already have any necessary travel and accommodation booked, as this is one of the few times here where you really need to plan ahead! If that’s taken care of, then check out the links below for more information on when, where and how to celebrate. True to Thai form, if often seems like there is conflicting information on what’s going on when, but these sites should be able to help clear some things up. Of course, it’s best to ask around wherever you are staying for the latest happenings.
- http://songkran2013.com – All you need to know for Songkran 2013 including visitor information, dates for different regions and the history of the holiday. Favorite tip: “The normally quiet and respectful Thais go a little crazy at Songkran…”
- http://www.tourismthailand.org/ – The official Tourism Authority of Thailand site lists information for different local celebrations and how to get there.
- http://www.thaifestivalblogs.com/ – Details, history and explanations of Thai holidays and festivals.
- http://www.city-now.com/songkran2013.php?lang=English – A calendar of events for Songkran in Chiang Mai which is thought to have the largest celebration in the country.
Additionally The Bangkok Post and Coconuts Bangkok are good resources to go to for news, updates and information on expectations and regulations for Songkran 2013.
Want more photos and details of this year’s celebration? Be sure to check out my personal blog, Paper Planes, later next week where I’ll be covering all the festivities.
สุขสันต์วันสงกรานต์!