Songkran, or the Thai New Year, runs from the 13th to 16th of April 2019. Get wet and (not so) wild at these family-friendly celebrations in Bangkok.
- Songkran Splash @ K Village is back, from 13-15 April, with the fun starting at 10am (to 6pm) each day. Entry is free and it’s great for younger kids (6 or 7 and under) to have water fights and cool off from the heat. There will also be a giant Inflatable bouncer and maze, as well as a Songkran Market. Water filling stations are located on the premises but bring your own water guns!
- Geared for ages 3 to 8, the OSB Songkran Festival @ Outdoor School, Bangkok will take place on Saturday, 13 April, from 9am to 1.30pm. Activities include games, a workshop, prizes, water splashing, food, drinks and lots of fun! The admission fee is 100 baht per adult and 300 per child. Please register in advance by calling 097-092-0924.
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosts nationwide celebrations every Songkran, with a focus on pageantry and cultural traditions. In Bangkok, you can join the fun at Songkran Wisutkasat on Wisutkasat Road, under the Rama XIII Bridge. This year marks the venue’s 77th anniversary, so it’s especially grand. Also, the nearby Bank of Thailand Museum (Bangkhunprom Palace) is opening its doors to the public free of charge. Meanwhile, Songkran Siam Square promotes ‘Pha Khao Ma’ (plaid multi-purpose loincloth) and a ‘safe Songkran’ theme, with cultural activities, culture and music performances, a folk market and water-based fun. Both events take place from 13-15 April 2019, and are suitable for older kids and teens, given the crowds.
- The Water Festival 2019 returns for the 5th time, with merit making and cultural activities, live concerts and performances at nine different locations on the Chao Phraya River: Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Kalayanamitr, Wat Prayoon, Tha Maharaj, Yodphiman, Lhong 1919, Suk Siam @Icon Siam and Asiatique the Riverfront. There’s a free shuttle boat available to take you to and from each of these spots.
- Larger public parks, like Lumpini Park, have hosted Songkran celebrations in the past few years. Malls usually have events too, with splashing zones for kids. Notably, CentralWorld throws a huge outdoor bash in front of the complex. This year, from 13-15 April, the event, called the Bangkok Post Songkran Festival 2019: Splash Factory, features different fun zones with game booths, food stalls, a water fight area, a foam party and a concert stage. Again, this is more suitable for older kids.
Some Songkran Tips
- Wear comfortable, quick drying clothing such as rash guard tops, boardshorts and flip flops. Bring a change of clothes for the kids if you plan to be out all day. Also, don’t forget waterproof sunscreen!
- Seal your phone, cash and credit cards in a waterproof bag (readily available for sale at convenience stores).
- Songkran is all about fun, but if your family has had enough, it’s ok to tell revelers to not splash you. The same goes for the application of din sor pong, an aromatic cooling powder, that’s typically dabbed on the face.
Photo credit: K Village
