When it comes to travel, Thailand remains one of the most fascinating places in the world. The magic of Thailand is unbroken, and the Songkran festival is one of the most enchanting experiences.

In 2021, Thais will celebrate Songkran with their families and loved ones, while adhering to government safety measures and the guidelines of the "new normal".

In addition to the local celebrations, people from near and far are cordially invited to participate in a brand new virtual Songkran event for the Thai New Year: “Spring Into Songkran Splendors”.

If you missed the virtual event, you can watch it below:

Virtual Songkran New Year celebration from home: "Spring awakening in Songkran splendor"

If you'd like to participate in the festivities but can't be there in person, you're warmly invited to watch Thailand's New Year celebration live from Chiang Mai! Experience the culture and traditions of Songkran from the comfort of your home with a festive program.

The exclusive event begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to Songkran, along with updates on Thai tourism. Village head Somsak Inthachai introduces guests to the Baan Rai Kong Khing community and its wellness traditions. The owner of Patara Elephant Farm, a family-run conservation organization specializing in elephant rehabilitation, speaks about responsible elephant experiences in Thailand. Chef Arnold Myint demonstrates in the kitchen how to prepare one of Thailand's most popular dishes: papaya salad.

And of course, there will be a Q&A session where all questions and comments will be answered!

Thailand is delighted to present the festivities and let you experience and learn about the traditions of Songkran. The virtual Songkran Festival, "Spring Awakening in Songkran Splendor," will take place on Thursday, April 8, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM ET (5:00 PM to 6:00 PM PT, 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM Thai Time). To participate, please register via this link.

With the return of cultural and traditional activities, Thailand is preparing for another great festival, implementing responsible safety measures such as social distancing and capacity restrictions. Here's how to celebrate Songkran like a pro.

What is Songkran?

Songkran is the Thai New Year festival, which begins in mid-April and lasts from April 13th to 15th. While it is cold and dreary in other parts of the world, April is the hottest month of the year in Thailand.

Songkran is one of Thailand's most famous traditions. The festival's name derives from the Sanskrit word "Songkran," which means "transition" or "approach." The festival symbolizes the transition from the old year to the new.

The history of Songkran traditions is rooted in the blessings and prayers offered to Buddhist monks. Visitors would bring food as offerings to the monks at local monasteries. As part of a sacred purification ritual, fragrant water was poured over the monks, accompanied by prayers and blessings.

The locals collected the water to take home to their families and friends, where they would then anoint and pour the blessed water on each other.

Songkran is the ideal time to visit the Buddha statues, as they are highly revered throughout Thailand during the festival. Whether you are a practicing Buddhist or not, the exquisite craftsmanship of the statues is admirable for everyone. You will also gain a valuable and authentic insight into the spirit of the Thai people as they celebrate this special festival.

The first day of Songkran falls on the 13th, the Great Songkran Day, which corresponds to the first day of the lunar year. The second day is Thailand's National Family Day, when Thai families gather to spend time together and observe their special traditions. On the last day, National Elders' Day, younger family members pour jasmine water from a silver cup over the hands of their elders as a sign of respect.

If you have friends in Thailand, you might be lucky enough to be invited to a Songkran family celebration.

How to celebrate Songkran

Celebrating Songkran is a joyous occasion among Thais and an excellent opportunity to visit Thailand and have a good time, no matter where you come from – there is something for everyone.

Those wishing to celebrate Songkran in the traditional way can visit one of Thailand's countless temples and experience the festival authentically. There, you can watch Buddha statues being sprinkled with water and even participate yourself. You can also observe people creating sand sculptures. To gain an authentic insight into Thai temple customs during Songkran, it is recommended to get up early and visit the temples before the festivities begin.

It is customary among Thais to sprinkle or scatter water during the New Year celebrations. The water is believed to bring blessings.

The Thai New Year festival, Songkran, is also a time to wear festive, colorful clothing and offer food to monks. Thais place great importance on leaving food to their ancestors during Songkran. Different events take place in various cities during the celebrations. Some hold parades, beauty pageants, and other competitions.

Reimagine your celebration by celebrating Songkran in Thailand or virtually.

Songkran is celebrated throughout Thailand, so you can experience joyful festivities everywhere you go. The streets of Bangkok are filled with exciting sights and joyful exchanges of blessings. If you prefer something a little quieter, travel out of the capital into Thailand's lush countryside. Thailand is an enchanting country with breathtaking lakes, majestic mountains, and dense forests that are home to some of the world's most exotic wildlife.

Songkran symbolizes new beginnings – a festival to be appreciated regardless of whether you're a local, a tourist, or participating virtually from home. If you're embarking on a new chapter yourself, celebrate it in style with Songkran and experience the magic of Thailand. You'll feel refreshed and gain a new perspective on life and the world.

Whether you're a busy student seeking unique experiences or an experienced professional looking for peace and authenticity – Thailand is the perfect place. Treat yourself to the magic of Songkran in Thailand and recharge your batteries.