Thailand Events and Festivals

4/13/2009 - 4/15/2009Songkran

The Songkran Festival lasts for several days and is a traditional celebration that welcomes in the Thai New Year. It is one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in Thailand making it a great time to visit the country. On the first day it is traditional for Thais to clean their house in preparation for the year ahead. The following day is given over to the preparation of food and special meals to be consumed over the coming days. The third day is the start of the Thai New Year and is marked by religious ceremonies which usually take place early in the morning. Come the afternoon, it's time for the water fights which rage through the streets during which everybody, including tourists, are targets. The day is celebrated all over the country with various special events and attractions. The town of Nong Khai, in the northeast of the country close to the Lao border, celebrates the occasion with floral tributes, a beauty pageant, sporting contests and a special ceremony at the Friendship Bridge that links Thailand with Laos.