Songkran is Thailand’s famous Thai New Year festival, and every April it turns streets across the country into a happy, water-soaked celebration. Many people call it the world’s biggest water fight, but it also has deep roots in renewal, respect, and cleansing.
In 2026, Songkran officially runs from April 13 to 15 (Monday to Wednesday). In busy areas, the fun often starts a day or two early and can continue after. The Tourism Authority of Thailand also promotes themed events, including campaigns like “Joyous Songkran Splendours,” which draw huge crowds of locals and visitors.
The word “Songkran” comes from Sanskrit and refers to an astrological passage, linked to the sun moving into a new zodiac sign. Traditional Songkran is gentle and meaningful. People pour scented water over elders’ hands to ask for blessings, visit temples to make merit, and lightly splash water as a symbol of washing away the old year.
In many cities, that tradition grew into the full-scale water battles seen today. Expect big crowds, loud music, great street food, and constant splashing from morning to night.
Whether you want non-stop city action, strong cultural traditions, a beach party, or a calmer northern trip, Thailand has a Songkran style that fits. Here are the top places to celebrate Songkran 2026 in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Chiang Rai.
Bangkok: Big Crowds, Big Energy, All-Day Water Fights
Bangkok goes all in for Songkran. Streets fill with locals and travelers, and the city feels like one giant water party. Official dates are April 13 to 15, though some events and concerts in past years have started earlier (often around April 11 to 14).
Khao San Road is the most famous spot for visitors. This backpacker area in Banglamphu packs in wall-to-wall water fights, plus bars that bring out DJs and live music. On the main days, the action often runs from around 10:00 to 23:00. People show up with water guns, buckets, and foam, and you’ll see vendors selling waterproof phone pouches, cold drinks, and Thai snacks like mango sticky rice. It’s loud, busy, and social. If you want space to move, show up early, because by midday, it can be extremely crowded.
Silom Road brings a more local feel but stays just as intense. This business district typically closes to traffic during Songkran, often from about 10:00 until midnight, and turns into a long water-play zone. You’ll find office workers, local families in some areas, and LGBTQ+ crowds all mixing. Brands often set up booths with music and giveaways, and the area usually has police and volunteers around, which helps it feel more organized. Lumpini Park nearby is a good place to step away and take a break.
Other Bangkok areas worth noting include Siam Square and CentralWorld for modern, shopping-area celebrations, RCA for nightlife-focused parties, and parts of the Chao Phraya River for waterside fun. If you want the traditional side first, start your morning at temples like Wat Pho or Wat Arun, where you may see water-pouring rituals and merit-making before the street battles begin.
Bangkok tips: Wear quick-dry clothes, use a waterproof bag, and book a hotel near your main zone (Khao San or Silom) early because prices rise fast. Drink plenty of water, respect anyone who doesn’t want to be splashed, and keep a close eye on your phone and wallet in dense crowds.
Chiang Mai: Northern Traditions and a Famous Moat Battle
Chiang Mai is often called a top place for Songkran, thanks to its mix of Lanna culture and huge water fights. The celebration can run longer here, often around April 12 to 16, with the Old City as the main stage.
The Old City moat (about a 6.5 km loop) becomes the center of the action. Pickup trucks circle with barrels of icy water, while people on foot, bikes, and trucks spray back nonstop. It’s energetic but often feels more friendly and communal than Bangkok. Many areas stay active from about 09:00 to 22:00.
The Phae Gate is a popular gathering point with a more family-friendly tone. You can catch cultural parades, music, dance shows, and lighter splashing. It’s also one of the best places for photos during the festival.
For a more traditional Chiang Mai experience, visit temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. You may see Buddha image processions (including Phra Phuttha Sihing in some years), sand pagoda building, and merit-making. The calm temple atmosphere feels like a different world compared to the moat.
Nimmanhaemin Road adds a modern twist. It draws younger crowds, with cafés and shops joining the water fun. Malls and event spaces sometimes host big parties with strong music and heavy water sprays.
Chiang Mai can feel more balanced overall, with cooler northern weather and easy day trips for nature once you’re ready to dry off.
Chiang Mai tips: Stay in the Old City or Nimman to reduce travel time. Roads get slippery, so drive carefully if you rent a scooter. You may also see talcum powder used for playful face smears, which is part of the holiday fun in some places.
Phuket: Songkran by the Sea, with Party Nights in Patong
Phuket combines island life with Songkran energy. The official dates are April 13 to 15, and the loudest celebrations usually happen in Patong.
Patong Beach and Bangla Road host the biggest water fights. Expect water play from late morning into the evening (often around 10:00 to 22:00), with music, foam, and crowds moving between the street and the sand. Many bars spray water from hoses, and the nightlife stays active after dark.
If you want something more cultural, Phuket Old Town often has parades, traditional outfits, and community events, along with more relaxed water play. Temples may host blessings, and the overall vibe feels more local and family-friendly.
Other areas, including Central Phuket Floresta and beaches like Kata and Karon, can be calmer. Some resorts also run private Songkran pool parties for guests.
Phuket’s big advantage is simple: you can celebrate hard, then unwind on the beach or jump into the Andaman Sea.
Phuket tips: Book Patong hotels early if you want to be near the main action. Reapply sunscreen often because water washes it away. Keep valuables off the beach when crowds get heavy, and choose a quieter area if Patong feels too intense.
Chiang Rai: Relaxed Songkran with a Local Feel
Chiang Rai is a solid pick if you want a more laid-back Songkran in northern Thailand. It’s less packed than the major tourist hubs, with more focus on community events and temple traditions.
In central areas (including spots near the clock tower and local event grounds), you’ll usually find celebrations from April 13 to 15, with music, water zones, and local performances. Some years have also included later community events. The mood is friendly and family-oriented, and the water fights are fun without feeling overwhelming.
Temples still play a big role, and the area also works well for side trips. The Golden Triangle is nearby, and the surrounding hills, tea areas, and viewpoints make it easy to mix festival time with nature.
Chiang Rai tips: Stay near the center so you can walk to the main activities. Pair Songkran days with visits to major sights like the White Temple or the Black House for a well-rounded trip.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Songkran 2026 Trip
Songkran 2026 can be as wild or as cultural as you want. Bangkok brings huge street parties, Chiang Mai mixes tradition with moat battles, Phuket adds beach energy, and Chiang Rai keeps things calm and local.
Respect local customs as you celebrate. Be gentle around elders, don’t splash people who clearly don’t want it, and avoid rough behavior. Pack light, waterproof your essentials, wear breathable clothes, carry some cash, and book hotels and transport early. Stay aware in crowds, drink water often, and have fun in a way that keeps everyone safe.
Songkran is messy, loud, and unforgettable, so plan and get ready to get soaked.
