Thailand’s Songkran Festival isn’t just any celebration; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a nationwide water fight where people flood the streets and party over the span of three days (or more).

Tourists flock to Thailand every year in April to celebrate Songkran–one of the wildest, wettest, and most fun holidays in the world. And if you ask someone who has celebrated Songkran in Thailand, you’ll hear the same thing: it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Put simply, partying in the streets of Thailand for three days equipped with a super soaker will make even the most jaded individual feel like a kid again.

With that said, here’s everything you need to know about Songkran Festival, when and where it is celebrated, and how to make the most of the Thai New Year.

What is Songkran Festival?

In the simplest terms, Songkran is a multi-day Thai holiday celebrating the Thai New Year. Thousands of Thais and tourists flood the streets armed with water guns and alcohol. It’s madness–in the best way possible.

Tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya basically shut down for the duration of the festival with two goals in mind: having a blast and getting soaking wet.

When is Songkran Celebrated?

The core celebration of Songkran Festival comprises three days, with April 13th marking the official Thai New Year’s Day and April 15th signaling the last day of official Songkran celebrations.

Yet, don’t let that fool you into thinking Songkran has ended. In certain regions like Pattaya and Bangsaen, the merriment continues into Wan Lai, also known as “the day that flows.”

Basically it’s an extra four days of Songkran celebrations if you know where to go.

What is the Origin of Songkran and Why is Water Thrown?

The term “Songkran” finds its origins in the Sanskrit word “Sankranti,” signifying a transition or transformation. This festival marks the sun’s passage into the zodiac sign of Aries, symbolizing new beginnings and renewal.

Water, the hallmark of Songkran, holds profound significance.

Firstly, it serves as a cleansing ritual, washing away the past year’s misfortunes and sins, paving the way for a fresh start. Secondly, it provides relief from the scorching heat of the Thai summer, making the festivities even more enjoyable. Lastly, water symbolizes purification in Buddhist tradition, with the act of pouring water over elders’ hands representing respect and seeking blessings for the upcoming year.

The Best Places in Thailand to Experience Songkran Festival

1. Bangkok

If you are looking for action and variety, then Bangkok is probably the best city to celebrate Songkran.

Why? Well, the bustling capital basically transforms into a water warfare zone, with major roads like Khao San Road and Silom turning into battlegrounds for water fights and festivities.

On top of that, there are Songkran-themed music festivals like S20 Festival with big-name DJs spinning away while festival-goers play in the water.

2. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is perhaps the most popular tourist stop for those looking to enjoy Songkran Festival in Thailand.

Tourists flood the streets of Chiang Mai’s Old Town and party the days away with water fights galore. The bars on Ratvithi Road like the notorious Zoe in Yellow are popping during all three Songkran days.

Chiang Mai is a great choice for the official three days of Songkran celebrations.

3. Phuket

If you want some beach vibes to go along with your Songkran activities, then Phuket is the smart choice.

Songkran parties in Phuket take place all over the city but the main craziness happens at Patong Beach at Bangla Walking Street. Tourists and locals alike come together there to get drunk and throw water on each other. It’s incredible.

And, at night, Bangla’s famous nightclubs like Iluzion come alive.

4. Bangsaen (Wan Lai Bangsaen)

For those who want to keep the Songkran Festivities going after the official days end, Bangsaen and Pattaya are the options.

From April 16-17, Bangsaen in Chonburi Province hosts additional–and equally fun–days of Songkran celebrations along Bangsaen Beach Road. This is more of a locals-oriented Songkran event as not many tourists visit Bangsaen, which is located between Bangkok and Pattaya.

But it’s no less fun. Trust us!

5. Pattaya (Wan Lai Festival)

Technically speaking, Pattaya celebrates Songkran Festival all the way from April 13 to April 19. That said, the final day (Wan Lai on April 19) is the most legendary.

Wan Lai celebrations in Pattaya are absolutely crazy. Water fights, beachfront parties, and concerts fill Pattaya Beach Road all the way down to Walking Street.

As you can probably guess, Pattaya Songkran is a more adult-centered Songkran celebration but there are still many Thai families celebrating there, as well.

Celebrating Songkran in Thailand

Without a doubt, Songkran Festival is one of the most fun holidays in the world. There is simply nothing else like it.

Whether you’re drawn to its cultural significance or the thrill of city-wide water fights, Songkran is truly special.

So, what are you waiting for? Book a flight, buy a water gun, and get the Songkran festivities started.

Related: The 8 Most Common Tourist Scams in Thailand (And How to Avoid Them)