Songkran in Thailand: That Time We Accidentally Joined the World’s Biggest Water Fight
Ever been on vacation and suddenly found yourself in the middle of the world’s biggest water fight? Yeah, me neither—until we visited Thailand in April 2023 and unknowingly walked right into Songkran, a festival that takes “refreshing” to a whole new level.
We had planned multiple stops throughout Thailand, and Chiang Mai was our last. I was excited to stay at an elephant sanctuary (more on that later), and we needed a few nights in the city. I had heard of Songkran before our trip, but the idea of a giant water gun battle wasn’t exactly what I had in mind for my vacation. I was thinking temples, street food, cultural immersion—not dodging Super Soakers in the middle of the street.
But thank goodness we were almost forced into participating, because Songkran turned out to be one of the most incredible cultural experiences of my life.
So, What Exactly Is Songkran?
Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, held every April. While it’s most famously known for turning entire cities into water warzones, it’s actually a deeply symbolic holiday centered around renewal, cleansing, and moving forward into the new year.
Key traditions of Songkran include:
Sprinkling water on Buddha statues for blessings
Giving alms to monks
Honoring elders and family
And, of course… engaging in an all-out nationwide water battle 💦
The festival officially kicks off April 13th and lasts for a few days (depending on where you are in Thailand). The water represents washing away the previous year’s misfortunes and welcoming the new one with a fresh start. And since April is Thailand’s hottest month, getting drenched head to toe is more of a relief than an inconvenience.
People take to the streets armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses to soak absolutely everyone in sight. Some participants also smear a white chalky paste called din sor pong on others’ faces, another traditional element of the celebration.
What It’s Actually Like to Experience Songkran
Imagine walking down the street, minding your own business, when out of nowhere… BAM! Someone absolutely blasts you with a bucket of ice-cold water. Then another. And another. You quickly realize there is zero chance of staying dry.
We went from mildly confused to fully invested in about five minutes. We purchased water guns, kids giggled as they sprayed us, and entire convoys of people in pickup trucks armed with barrels of water drove by, splashing unsuspecting pedestrians. It was pure chaotic joy. There’s something freeing about completely letting go, getting soaked, and laughing with strangers from all over the world.
Would I Do It Again? 1000% Yes.
Songkran was nothing like I expected—but in the best way possible. It was the perfect mix of cultural tradition, community, and sheer fun. If you ever find yourself in Thailand in April, don’t just watch from the sidelines. Grab a water gun, accept your fate, and dive in.
Actual useful information :
Location : Songkran is held in many cities across Thailand. We had our experience in Chiang Mai
Securing Water Guns : You don’t need to bring water guns on the plane, there are tons of street vendors that sell them. You can buy water guns, buckets, you name it!
Securing Water : We were on a canal, so there were locals who helped fill us up via their buckets they got from the canal or we would ask for a fill up from street vendors that had hoses. Everyone is very friendly and just having a good time, don’t be afraid to ask for water!
What should you wear? Anything you’re okay getting wet in! I’d opt for a bathing suit top and shorts. I’d also highly recommend water shoes. Flip flops aren’t really great because the ground gets really wet and sometimes slippery or just gross in general. You can buy water shoes at local stores or bring a cheap pair with you. These aren’t necessary, Ben just used old shoes, but I was glad I had water shoes.
How do you stay dry? You don’t. Seriously. Even if you are walking around town away from the main festivals, don’t expect to stay dry. This is not an exaggeration. The locals are really committed to making sure everyone participates
Other accessories : Vendors do sell some phone pouches, but I brought one from home because we were doing other water activities that I needed these for.
Phone Pouch - my husband and I both bring one of these on any trip we are doing water activities
Waterproof bag - I bring this bag with me on all my trips. Highly recommend this for Songkran.
This is what the entire day looked like - lots of foot traffic, lots of cars, LOTS of water
The smiles say it all
One last note - some of the water they use is FREEZING! Trucks drive around selling giant blocks of ice that people put into their refill buckets.