Answer
Songkran, celebrated in mid-April, marks the Thai New Year and is a time for renewal and cleansing. The festival has deep cultural roots, symbolizing the washing away of sins and bad luck.
• In Chiang Mai, Songkran is particularly vibrant, featuring large water fights in the streets, where locals and visitors alike splash water on each other as a way to celebrate. The atmosphere is filled with joy, music, and traditional Thai dance performances.
• Beyond the water festivities, many locals visit temples to make merit, pay respects to their ancestors, and participate in traditional ceremonies, which adds a spiritual layer to the celebration.
Practical Chiang Mai planning note: Expect wet streets, crowds and temporary traffic changes during Songkran. Protect electronics, use clean water, respect people who do not wish to participate and check the current programme for cultural processions and ceremonies.