Thai Songkran Festival : 13-14-15 April
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year. The festival offers not only the fun water throwing but also other interesting activities such as merits making and house cleaning, considered a way to help protect the environment. The purpose of bathing or splashing water in the Songkran Festival is to give and request for blessings through water, not for the rigorous water war.
Applying soft chalk powder called "Din Saw Phong" on one's face or body is traditionally an individual's choice of dressing. To touch others without their permission is considered an ill manner by civilised Thais. The water used for bathing and splashing is regarded as sacred. Thus, it must be clean water, "Nam Ob" (water saturated with perfumes, either of Thai or Western origin) or scented water with floral pedals, and NOT dirty water or ice.
Traditionally, upon the bathing ritual, the elders are presented with toilet items, namely clothes, "Pha-hom", "Pha-nung" (loin cloth), handkerchiefs, towels, soap, perfumes and powder. However, you can prepare the toilet gift set as you see fit and may or may not add other presents such as flowers and sweet.
Songkran is the custom of all Thai people regardless of religions. Those who are not Buddhists can make merits on this occasion based on their religions and beliefs and also enjoy other activities of the Festival. The Songkran festival is held only once a year.
