Get Ready to Celebrate: Thai New Year 2018 Dates and Festivities Revealed
Are you curious about when Thai New Year 2018 will be celebrated? Wonder no more, for we have all the details right here!
Thai New Year is also known as Songkran, and it's one of the most beloved holidays in Thailand. This lively festival is a time to welcome new beginnings, let go of past regrets, and enjoy good food, music, and company. It's a time to cleanse the body, mind, and spirit, and to connect with friends and family.
But when exactly is Thai New Year 2018? The festival normally lasts for three days, from April 13 to April 15. However, the actual timing may vary depending on your location in Thailand. Some areas may extend the festival by a few days or start a little earlier.
Regardless of the exact dates, Songkran is always an exciting time to be in Thailand. The streets come alive with people splashing water on one another, using water guns, buckets, or just their hands. It's a tradition that symbolizes the act of cleansing and starting anew, and everyone is encouraged to participate, locals and tourists alike.
If you're planning to visit Thailand during Songkran, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1. Wear clothes that dry quickly as you will get wet from the water splashing.
2. Protect your valuables by keeping them in a waterproof bag or leaving them safely at home.
3. Practice caution while on the roads to avoid any accidents due to slippery surfaces.
4. Be respectful of the local traditions and customs, such as greeting elders with a wai (a traditional Thai gesture).
In addition to the playful water fights, Songkran is also a time for spiritual reflection. Many people visit temples to offer food to monks, or perform merit-making activities such as releasing birds or fish back into the wild.
The end of Songkran is marked by the release of merit water into nearby rivers and canals. This water is believed to be sacred and carries the blessings and good wishes of those who contributed throughout the festival. It's a beautiful sight to see the river turn into a shimmering canvas of lights and colors.
Finally, it's important to note that Songkran isn't just celebrated in Thailand but also in other neighboring countries such as Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. Each country has its own unique way of marking the festival, but they all share the same underlying message of renewal and good cheer.
In conclusion, Thai New Year 2018 falls between April 13 to April 15, depending on your location in Thailand. It's a fun-filled festival that involves water fights, temple visits, and merit-making activities. If you're planning to visit Thailand during this time, keep in mind the tips we shared above and prepare to have a blast!
"When Is Thai New Year 2018" ~ bbaz
Introduction
Thai New Year, also known as Songkran, marks Thailand’s most important festival celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm. It is the time when the streets are filled with water, the sky with happiness and people dancing and socializing. Each year, Songkran falls on the same day as the Indian New Year and is celebrated from April 13 to April 15, during the hottest time of the year in Thailand.
The Origins of Songkran
Songkran originated from ancient Buddhist traditions. The main goal of the celebrations is to pay respect and honor to Buddha and the elders. In addition to this, the festivities are marked by open water fights, praying at temples, local gatherings, and paying respect to ancestors.
Preparations for Songkran
In the weeks leading up to the celebrations, people prepare for the occasion by cleaning their homes and Buddha images. This cleansing is known as “Song Nam Phra”, where water is used for cleaning the statues and images, symbolizing good luck and blessings. People also make offerings and bring food to the monks in the temple, seeking blessings and prosperity in return.
Three Days of Festivities
Songkran festivities can be divided into three days, each with a unique celebration and activities. Day one is observed as the Wan Sungkharn Lohk or Sangken Festival in Northern Thailand. During the first day, people pour lustral water on elders' hands as a sign of respect and receive blessings from them in return.
Day two is known as Wan Nao or Pak Dam. It is customary for people to donate goods and essentials to the temples and help the poor and needy. People also build sand stupas and decorate them with colorful flags and flowers to honor deceased family members.
The third day is referred to as Wan Thaloeng Sok or Wan Thaloeng Sung. It is the final day of Songkran and marks the grand finale of celebration. People participate in elaborate water fights in the streets, using water guns, buckets, and hoses.
Where to Celebrate Songkran
The best places in Thailand to celebrate Songkran are Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket. These cities witness some of the biggest and most exuberant celebrations with locals and foreigners alike. Each city has its unique way of celebrating the festival, but all share water-fighting and religious ceremonies.
What to Expect during Songkran
During Songkran, expect to get soaked with water, colored powder, and flour. Water throwing is said to wash away bad luck from the previous year and bring good luck for the coming year. You can also enjoy traditional Thai dances and music, street food, and cultural activities.
Cultural Dos and Don’ts
When visiting Thailand during the Songkran festival, it is essential to respect and follow cultural dos and don'ts. Do dress modestly when visiting temples and elders’ homes and remove your shoes before entering a home’s entrance. Do not make noise, act rudely, or make offensive gestures in public as it brings disrespect to Thai culture. Lastly, do participate in water fights, but ensure that you target only those who are willing to be part of the fun.
Conclusion
Songkran is an annual festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal throughout Thailand. The festival is an amalgamation of religious traditions, water fights, and socializing. Taking part in these celebrations is highly recommended as it is a great opportunity to experience Thai culture and traditions. So, if you are planning to visit Thailand, make sure you plan your trip around April to be part of this colorful and vibrant festival.
When Is Thai New Year 2018: A Comparison of Celebrations, Traditions, and Festivities
Introduction
Thailand is a country that celebrates many traditional holidays. Among the most popular ones is the Thai New Year, also known as Songkran. This holiday is celebrated not only in Thailand but all over Southeast Asia. The date of the celebration varies depending on the lunar calendar, and although Songkran is most often associated with water fights, there are many other unique traditions and customs associated with the holiday. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Songkran in Thailand and compare it to other countries in the region.Date of Celebration
Thai New Year is generally celebrated between April 13 to April 15 every year. In some parts of Thailand, however, the holiday can be celebrated for up to a week, making it one of the longest holidays in the country. This period is at the height of Thailand's hot season, which is why the festival has become associated with water fights. In Myanmar, the holiday is called Thingyan. It is a four-day event that takes place around the same time as Songkran, between April 12 to April 16. In Cambodia, it is known as Chol Chnam Thmey and is celebrated at roughly the same time as Songkran, typically between April 13 to April 15.Water Festival
The water festival is perhaps the most iconic part of Thai New Year celebrations. During this festival, people all over Thailand take to the streets with buckets of water, water guns, and hoses, dousing each other with water as a symbol of spiritual cleansing. Similarly, in Myanmar's Thingyan, people also take part in a water festival, called the water pouring ceremony, during which people pour water on Buddha images to wash away bad luck and sins. The Cambodian Chol Chnam Thmey also has water festival activities where people splash water on each other to cleanse them of sin and bring good luck.Traditional Activities
Apart from the water festival, there are many other traditional activities that take place during Songkran. One of the most beloved is the Miss Songkran beauty pageant, where contestants wear traditional Thai costumes and compete to be crowned the most beautiful girl during the festival. In Myanmar's Thingyan, one of the popular events is the Pandals where they build stages covered in colorful lights and decorations. Young people perform dance shows and traditional music, similar to Thailand's beauty pageants. Cambodia's Chol Chnam Thmey also does not miss out on cultural performances, along with prayers held at the temples.Food & Drinks
During Songkran, it is customary in Thailand to prepare and eat traditional Thai dishes such as Khao Chae and Miang Kham among others. These dishes reflect Thai food culture and add more elegance to the festival.Similarly, Myanmar's Thingyan has its traditional food called Mont Lin Mayar, a dish of rice mixed with fish and spices, and Mohinga, a hot and spicy fish soup. Cambodia, on the other hand, has a similar dish called Khmer Red Curry, an iconic dish from Cambodia that explodes gastronomic flavors with a combination of herbs, lemongrass, coconut milk and beef with potato or another protein source.Religious Significance
Aside from being a fun festival, Songkran also holds religious significance in Thailand. It is believed that during Songkran, the gods visit the earth and bless people with good fortune for the upcoming year. Temples play a large role in the festival, as many Thais visit temples to make merit, pray and listen to sermons.Similarly, Burmese people during Thingyan believe that by pouring water over sacred Buddha images, they wash away their sins from the old year and welcome the new. They clean their homes and let go of all their grudges, misunderstandings, and disappointments at the end of the year. Cambodians celebrate the start of a new Khmer year by offering food to monks. Also popular is visiting shrines to light incense and candles or taking part in pagoda fairs.Conclusion
In conclusion, Thai New Year celebrations are similar yet unique across Southeast Asia. Although water festivals and cultural festivities are common in this region, there are still differences in each country's customs and traditions. Whichever country you choose to celebrate this fantastic festival, one thing is for sure - it will be a memorable experience!When is Thai New Year 2018?
Introduction
Thai New Year, also known as Songkran, is a traditional holiday in Thailand and some neighboring countries. It is a three-day festival, celebrated from April 13 to April 15 each year. In 2018, the Thai New Year falls on a Friday, which means it will be a long weekend for many Thais and foreigners living in Thailand.What is Songkran?
Songkran is a water festival where people cleanse themselves of bad luck and welcome the new year with a fresh start. The festival originated from the practice of pouring water over the Buddha statue and one another as a sign of respect and good fortune. In modern times, the tradition of water pouring has evolved into a massive water fight, especially in tourist areas.Where to Celebrate Songkran in Thailand?
Almost every city and town in Thailand celebrates Songkran, but some places are more popular than others. Bangkok, the capital city, turns into a giant water arena with multiple stages and activities organized throughout the city. Chiang Mai, in the north, is famous for its religious traditions and the annual parade of Buddha images around the old city. Phuket and Pattaya, both coastal towns, are known for their beach parties and nightlife.How to Prepare for Songkran?
If you plan to participate in the water fights, make sure you wear appropriate clothing that can get wet and dry easily. Many people wear swimwear or lightweight clothes that provide mobility and comfort. You can also buy a waterproof phone case or a waterproof bag for your belongings. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn and reflection. And, most importantly, have fun!What to Do During Songkran?
Apart from playing with water, there are many other activities to do during Songkran. You can visit a temple and make merit by pouring water over the Buddha statue and receiving blessings from monks. You can participate in cultural shows and contests, such as beauty pageants and traditional dances. You can also try traditional Thai food and snacks, which are sold at many stalls and markets.What Not to Do During Songkran?
Although Songkran is a fun and joyful festival, there are also some things you should avoid doing. Don't throw water into people's faces or ears, as it can cause injuries and infections. Don't use ice-cold water, as it can shock people and harm their health. Don't drink and drive, as many accidents and fatalities happen during Songkran due to drunk driving. And, lastly, don't forget to respect local customs and traditions, especially if you are a foreigner.How to Get Around During Songkran?
During Songkran, many roads and streets are closed for traffic, and public transportation can be limited. It is recommended to use public transportation, such as the Skytrain or the metro, to avoid traffic jams and delays. Taxis and tuk-tuks may be available but prepare to pay higher fares due to high demand. Walking or cycling can also be a good option, depending on your location.What to Expect After Songkran?
After three days of water fights and celebrations, the country returns to normal life. However, some places may still experience water splashing and festivities for a few more days. The roads and streets may be dirty and wet, so be careful when walking or driving. Some areas may be quieter than usual, as many people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with their families.Conclusion
Thai New Year, or Songkran, is a unique and exciting festival that brings people together to celebrate the new year. Whether you are a local or a tourist, make sure you participate in the festivities with respect and responsibility. Have fun, make friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Songkran!When Is Thai New Year 2018?
The Thai New Year is a vibrant and colorful celebration, and an incredibly important date in the Thai calendar. Known as Songkran, the festival spans across three days, typically between April 13th and April 15th every year. This period is marked by traditional ceremonies, cultural activities, and a mass water fight that makes it one of the most unique and exciting events on the global calendar.
While there is some variation from year to year, determined by the positioning of the lunar calendar, the dates of Songkran are well-established and can be planned for with relative ease. The festivities will begin on April 13th with National Elderly Day, and then continue through until April 15th, which is the official day of the Thai New Year.
During this time, people will travel across the country to celebrate in their hometowns or holiday destinations. In large cities, such as Bangkok or Chiang Mai, the streets will be filled with locals and tourists alike, all joining in the revelry and fun.
The first day of Songkran is known as Wan Sangkhan Lohng, and it is reserved for merit-making ceremonies at local temples. People will often go to these temples early in the morning, bringing with them alms and offerings for the monks. This is also a time for families to come together and pay respects to their elders.
Next up is Wan Nao, which takes place on April 14th. This is the day before the official Thai New Year, and it is often used as a day of preparation for the main event. People will spend their time cleaning their homes and buying gifts for loved ones. They will also prepare their water guns and buckets in readiness for the mass water fight that will happen the next day!
Finally, we come to the main event – Wan Payawan, or the official Thai New Year (also known as Songkran Day). On this day, water will be thrown everywhere! People will take to the streets armed with buckets, water guns, and hoses, drenching anyone and everyone in their path. The atmosphere is electrifying, and the energy is contagious.
While the water fight is the most well-known aspect of Songkran for tourists, it is important to recognize the cultural significance of this festival for the Thai people. It is a time for new beginnings, for washing away the old year and welcoming in a fresh start. It is also a time for family, community, and fun.
So, if you are planning on traveling to Thailand in April, be sure to schedule your visit to coincide with the Thai New Year. You won't regret it! Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, there is something for everyone during Songkran.
Just be prepared to get wet!
In conclusion, the dates for Thai New Year 2018 have been set for April 13th through 15th. This year's celebrations promise to be as exciting as ever, bringing together people from all over the world to experience the unique and vibrant culture of Thailand.
With traditional ceremonies, cultural activities, and mass water fights taking place across the country, there is no shortage of things to see and do during Songkran.
So, mark your calendars and start planning your trip to Thailand – we'll see you at the next Songkran!
When Is Thai New Year 2018?
What is Thai New Year and why is it celebrated?
Thai New Year, also known as Songkran, is the most important festival in Thailand. It is celebrated every year from 13th to 15th April. Songkran marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. The festival is celebrated by Buddhists who believe that water has purifying qualities that can cleanse the mind and soul.
Is Thai New Year always on the same date?
Yes, Thai New Year is always celebrated on the same dates which are 13th to 15th April.
How is Thai New Year celebrated?
Thai New Year is celebrated with huge water fights, where people throw water at each other as a symbol of cleansing and washing away bad luck. It is also traditional to pour water on Buddha images and sacred objects as a sign of respect and devotion.
What should I wear during Thai New Year?
It is best to dress modestly during Songkran, especially if you will be visiting temples or other sacred sites. Avoid wearing shorts, revealing tops, or clothing with offensive messages.
Is Thai New Year only celebrated in Thailand?
No, Thai New Year is also celebrated in other countries such as Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. These countries have their own unique names for the festival, but it is still a time for water fights and general merriment.
Are there any customs or practices I should be aware of during Thai New Year?
- Do not splash water directly on someone's face, especially if they are elderly or carrying religious items.
- Respect sacred spaces and do not participate in water fights near temples or shrines.
- Do not throw water at motorcyclists or drivers, as this can be dangerous.
In conclusion
Thai New Year is a fun and festive celebration that is cherished by people all over Thailand. Remember to stay safe, dress appropriately and respect local customs and traditions during the festivities.