I came back to Thailand this time for multiple reasons and am staying for a longer period as well. One of the biggest reasons is to finally celebrate Songkran. Even though I had lived here for 3 years, I had yet to celebrate this amazing festival. I mean, it’s also new year’s for me.

Songkran, also known as the Water Festival, is the traditional Thai New Year. This time is also the New Year for Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. The beginning of the New Year symbolizes a fresh start and the washing away of the previous year’s misfortunes. Generally, the festival lasts 3 days.

Some activities that people participate in include: visiting temples, honoring elders, spring cleaning and water fights. Water actually represents cleansing and purification and it’s believed to wash away bad luck and allows for fresh beginnings.

In terms of the Lao tradition, each day has its own significance. It marks the transition from the old year to the new year. Here is what each of the 3 days means:
Day 1 (Sangkhan Luang)
This day is the last day of the old year. It’s the time for symbolic cleansing and preparation for the new year. Most people will clean their home on this day. Buddha images are ceremonially washed with scented water (something akin to holy water), and water fights begin (cleansing away past sins and misfortunes).
Day 2 (Sangkhan Nao)
I like to refer to this day as the day of nothing. It’s a neutral day between the last day of the new year and the first day of the new year. It’s a time to reflect and make merit. Many people visit temples, build sand stupas and engage in mindful activities to accumulate good karma for the new year. Napping is to be avoided as it is believed laziness and could mean misfortune in the new year. Young people are encouraged to stay active.
Day 3 (Sangkhan Keun)
Finally, the last day of the festival is also known as the official beginning (and first day) of the new year. At this point, the festivities are at their peak with cultural performances, processions with Buddha images and continued water play.

This year, I captured the fun, but not the more religious aspects, though I did partake. I celebrated Songkran twice, once on Khao San Road and once in Silom. I spent Songkran on KSR with my dive friends (P’Jane and Carrot). I spent Songkran in Silom with my friend Mark (we didn’t take a picture together, but we had a ton of fun).

Here are some more moments for the holiday weekend!

My goal for next time is to also have a Songkran shirt and to carry around a bunch of change (makes it easier for water refills). I also would like to celebrate with some of the friends I didn’t get to celebrate with as well. Oh, and also participate in more of the religious aspects (I did a bit this year, but not as much as I usually do).

Until next time!