Bangkok, Thailand, April 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / From April 11 to 17, 2023, ICONSIAM will be the exclusive venue in Thailand to enjoy the Songkran celebrations on the riverbank. This further solidifies the hotel's reputation as a global destination and world-class landmark on the Chao Phraya River.

In collaboration with public and private partners, ICONSIAM is organizing the "ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2023"—the only Songkran celebration in Thailand to take place on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This aims to continue the beloved Songkran tradition. The "River Park" has prepared everything for a traditional Thai Songkran festival, which is expected to be recognized by UNESCO as Thailand's fourth Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Both local and international tourists have the opportunity to participate in the innovative water displays, immerse themselves in the cultural spectacle, and advocate for the inclusion of the Songkran Festival on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Participants are also encouraged to contribute to sustainability by using eco-friendly water tanks made from coffee grounds, ensuring everyone can experience the joyful water displays of Songkran.

Visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking sight of Miss Songkran 2023, led by renowned actress Yaya (Urassaya Sperbund) in an exquisite traditional Thai gown. There will also be a unique opportunity to admire the magnificent collection of antique Thai jewelry spanning over 100 years, which Yaya will wear on April 11th and Amanda (Chalisa Obdam) on April 13th.

• In the Rassada Hall on the first floor, Buddhists can participate in the sacred ceremony where they venerate a replica of the Pollen Buddha image from Wat Saraphatnuek in Ubon Ratchathani province and sprinkle it with fragrant water to express their wishes and receive blessings. Additionally, the ground floor of SOOKSIAM hosts events celebrating Thai culture from all four regions of the country.

ICONSIAM's Managing Director, Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, said: "ICONSIAM, a global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and a major tourist attraction in Bangkok and Thailand, is preparing to host the ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2023 from April 11-17, 2023, and invites visitors from all over the world to participate in the Songkran Festival and fully immerse themselves in the enchanting Thai culture."

“ICONSIAM places great importance on protecting and preserving Thailand’s unique traditions and culture. The event, the ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2023, is an extension and celebration of Thai culture presented to a global audience. This aligns with the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to preserve Thai cultural values ​​and traditions, with the goal of having the Songkran Festival recognized as a World Heritage Site in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Cultural Promotion and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).”

“This year, ICONSIAM has made its best contribution to showcasing the Songkran Festival as Thailand’s fourth intangible cultural heritage to be recognized by UNESCO, after Khon, Thai massage and the Nora dance.”

“Furthermore, this aligns with ICONSIAM’s core value of preserving cultural heritage by adapting it to the current situation and ensuring its continuity into the future. This is embodied in the ‘Heritage to Future’ vision, which enhances and preserves cultural heritage.”

For this year's event, taking place from April 11th to 17th, 2023, ICONSIAM has partnered with public and private institutions, including the Ministry of Culture, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, SOOKSIAM, Hatakabb (Sim Tien Hor) Co., Ltd., British Dispensary (LP), SOMSAMAI GOLD, and Nang Loy, a producer of fragrant Thai water. The festival's theme, "Blooming," represents happiness, new beginnings, and reunions, symbolizing the possibility of living together again.

The beauty of Thailand is presented to the world with the unique Miss Songkran Parade and a variety of entertaining activities.

To celebrate and preserve valuable cultural traditions, ICONSIAM is preparing the opening ceremony of the "ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2023" on April 11, 2023. Tourists can look forward to the Miss Songkran Parade, the largest and most beautiful parade on the Chao Phraya River. The parade will be led by the renowned actress Yaya (Urassaya Sperbund), who portrays the legendary Kimita Devi.

Miss Songkran 2023 will appear in exquisite Thai dresses designed by Phiramon Chomtawat, an expert in traditional Thai dance costumes, and wear priceless, over 100-year-old traditional Thai jewelry. This jewelry comes from Phutthapong Piancharoen, a renowned collector of antique jewelry in Thailand, and will be on display for tourists.

Another significant event this year is the Miss Songkran Parade on April 13, 2023, the main day of Songkran. It will be led by Amanda (Chalisa Obdam), Miss Universe Thailand 2020 and a finalist in the 69th Miss Universe competition. During the parade, Amanda will wear a royal costume from the Sukhothai era, reminiscent of an empress's gown. It was elaborately designed by Dr. Surat Jongda and adorned with exquisite gold jewelry, embellishments, and accessories.

After the parade, visitors can enjoy mini-concerts by well-known artists such as Three Man Down, Tilly Birds, ATLAS, and others, ensuring a lively atmosphere and top-notch entertainment throughout the event. In addition to the concerts, tourists can also experience Thai cultural performances and participate in the water shows on the Chao Phraya River – naturally, in compliance with current safety regulations. The event is adorned with colorful floral decorations, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Furthermore, ICONSIAM remains committed to social responsibility, environmental protection, and cultural preservation. One of its ongoing initiatives focuses on protecting natural resources and the environment surrounding the Chao Phraya River. To this end, ICONSIAM collaborates with cafes on the site to recycle coffee grounds and produce water-based products as well as chairs for the event.

Take part in the sacred tradition of paying homage to the replica of the Pollen Buddha image from Wat Saraphatnuek in Ubon Ratchathani province by pouring fragrant water over it, which is said to bring blessings.

Buddhists can seek blessings for the Thai New Year by following the tradition of pouring water over a replica of the Flower Powder Buddha from Wat Saraphatnuek in Ubon Ratchathani province. This custom states that the original image was made of flower powder. This ancient Buddha statue was created during the reign of King Rama V and is one of only five that survive in Thailand. The replicas of the Flower Powder Buddha were made from flowers offered to the Emerald Buddha and are considered sacred when seeking blessings for professional success and good fortune.

Furthermore, visitors are encouraged to earn merit by paying homage to the Buddha statues displayed in the Rassada Hall on the first floor. There is also the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and other products in well-known shops and to participate in workshops in the Charoennakorn Hall on the M floor.

SOOKSIAM on the ground floor offers visitors a unique cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the fascinating Thai way of life and experience the traditions of local communities while preserving the cultural heritage of the four regions. The event, running from today until February 20, 2023, promises a joyful, refreshing, and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can participate in the ancient tradition of water pouring over the revered Buddha statue Phra Phuttha Sihing, witness Muay Thai and cultural performances, enjoy delicious dishes from local shops, and take part in workshops promoting Thai culture.

The recently opened ICS Lifestyle Complex in Thonburi is hosting the "ICS Songkran Festival" in its event space on the M-level from today until April 17, 2023. Visitors can discover products, snacks, and collectibles at various stalls and participate in numerous entertaining activities centered around the Songkran festival. In addition to the vendor booths, delicious Thai desserts such as Krong Krang Nam Kati (a Thai coconut milk dessert) and Khanom Babin (Thai coconut pancakes) will be available. Workshops and a captivating festival performance will also take place.

Discover and enjoy a diverse selection of attractive special offers, specifically tailored to the needs of passionate shoppers.

The "ICONSIAM Happy and Prosperous Songkran 2023" advertising campaign is sure to put customers in a good mood. Enjoy an unforgettable shopping experience with this Songkran-inspired promotion and secure rewards worth over 2.2 million Baht. The promotion runs from today until May 6, 2023.

VIZ members using the ONESIAM SuperApp can collect up to 400 Baht in VIZ COIN when shopping at ICONSIAM and Siam Takashimaya department stores (certain terms and conditions apply). Additionally, VIZ members using the ONESIAM SuperApp can take advantage of an exclusive 5-day offer from April 13th to 17th, 2023. During this period, they can redeem a Lotus Privé Cash Coupon and up to 800 Baht in VIZ COIN by fulfilling certain purchase conditions.

The "ICS Happy and Prosperous Songkran 2023" campaign offers special promotions during the Songkran Festival at the ICS Lifestyle Complex. The promotion runs from April 7th to May 21st, 2023. VIZ members can receive a summer bag worth 250 Baht via the ONESIAM SuperApp when they spend 1,500 Baht at ICS shops (excluding food and drinks) and at Lotus's Privé. Alternatively, they can receive an instant discount coupon worth 50 Baht for Lotus's Privé with a purchase of 800 Baht at Lotus's Privé or with the purchase of food and drinks at ICS. ***Please check the specific terms and conditions on site.

Celebrate Songkran in a joyful and safe atmosphere and shop for the Thai New Year at "THE ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2023" at ICONSIAM on Charoennakorn Road. For more information, call 1338, visit www.iconsiam.com, or check out their Facebook page: ICONSIAM.