DateThailand’s traditional April New Year
Songkran takes place in April and marks the traditional Thai New Year. The name comes from Sanskrit and refers to a passage or transition. Today the holiday is a time for family reunions, paying respect to elders and making merit at temples.
Why water matters
Gently pouring water can express respect, cleansing and good wishes. Families may pour water over elders’ hands, and temple visitors may bathe Buddha images. Public water play is a separate, lively part of the celebrations.
Songkran and the civil calendar
The festival remains in April while Thailand’s civil year begins on January 1. So a modern Songkran date converts using the same 543-year offset as other modern civil dates.
Recognized cultural heritage
UNESCO added Songkran in Thailand to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023. Its listing describes family and community practices passed between generations. Read the UNESCO entry.
If you’re planning to join a celebration, see the guide to local customs and public water play.