Songkran Water Festival
สงกรานต์
Next Date
Apr 13, 2026
Duration
3-7 days (officially April 13-15)
Thai New Year and the world's biggest water fight. Originally a Buddhist cleansing ritual, it has evolved into a massive water battle celebration. The country essentially shuts down for a week.
Upcoming Dates
2026
April 13, 2026
2027
April 13, 2027
Protect valuables in waterproof bags. Chiang Mai's moat area has the most intense water battles.
Loi Krathong
ลอยกระทง
Thailand's most romantic festival. Thais float decorated banana-leaf baskets (krathong) on rivers and waterways to pay respect to the water goddess and release negativity. Celebrated on the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
ยี่เป็ง
Northern Thailand's spectacular lantern festival, coinciding with Loi Krathong. Thousands of paper lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky, creating a magical scene.
Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival
ผีตาโขน
Vibrant Buddhist festival in Dan Sai featuring colorful ghost masks and costumes. Combines animist traditions with Buddhist celebrations of Buddha's life.
Rocket Festival
บุญบั้งไฟ
Ancient Isan tradition of launching homemade bamboo rockets to encourage the rain gods before rice planting season. Features music, dancing, and spectacular rocket launches.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival
มหกรรมไม้ดอกไม้ประดับ
Annual celebration of Chiang Mai's floral heritage featuring elaborate flower floats, parades, and garden displays during the peak blooming season.
Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival
ประเพณีวิ่งควาย
Unique Thai tradition dating back over 100 years. Water buffalo race through muddy fields, ridden by farmers. Part harvest celebration, part hilarious spectacle.
Thai Name
สงกรานต์
Category
CulturalRegion
NationwideDuration
3-7 days (officially April 13-15)
Typical Month
April
Calendar Type
Solar Calendar
Book in Advance
Accommodation and transportation fill up quickly during major festivals. Book several weeks or months ahead.
Check the Calendar
Mark your calendar with the exact dates for this year.
Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly, especially at religious festivals. Follow local guidance and be respectful of traditions.