Why is Songkran so special? – Villa Erawan – Luxury Koh Samui Villas
Like most of Asia, Thailand differs in its way of celebrating New Year. In the west, New Year is celebrated on December 31st with January 1st seen as the start of the new year. However, in Thailand, New Year or commonly known as Songkran, takes place in mid-April. What better way to live the festive season but in our Luxury Koh Samui Villa?
So you may ask; what makes Songkran so special? On the contrary to the English Christmas, it’s not just a single night affair. Songkran is a 3-day event that all Thais take part in. It is also very popular with tens of thousands of “Farang” or foreigners who visit the country year on year to take part in the near legendary festivities.
How is Songkran celebrated?
As the longest holiday that is celebrated in Thailand it traditionally begins with a national water festival, or more accurately a 3-day water fight which is particularly popular by teens and young adults. In places where tourism is more concentrated, something these water fights can last up to a week.
In the weeks leading up to Songkran you’ll see giant water pistols as well as crazy and colourful Hawaiian-style shirts sold on the streets in anticipation of the holiday. In larger cities, you may even see giant tanker trucks delivering water, or quite likely soaking others.
A warning: Everyone is fair game during Songkran. Any tourists who wish to not take part in the festivities should either stay hidden in their hotel rooms for the 3 days or not come to Thailand during the holiday. Otherwise it’s all hands-on deck! There are some exceptions however. You must not target Buddhist monks, police officers and other officials. Babies, toddlers and the elderly are also exempt.
Water isn’t the only thing thrown in the streets. The smearing of colourful paste is especially popular among the younger Thai population. It’s only coloured talcum powder so is utterly harmless. It is actually considered to be a blessing if they gift you with a handful of paste!
How should you prepare? Villa Erawan – Luxury Koh Samui Villas
You’ll want some cheap sunglasses, you may even consider purchasing a pair of goggles. Also remember to pack clothes that dry easily and of course some comfy shoes. Waterproof sunscreen is also a must. Tourists seem to forget that this is around the hottest time of year in Thailand and usually get some nasty sun burns.
So where did this holiday originate from?
Although Songkran has always been seen as a Thai holiday, it actually has origins in nearby Bruma. The word Songkran derives from the word “saṃkrānti” which means “astrological passage.” Songkran parallels the rising of Aries on the astrological chart, which is the calendar of many countries in Asia and keeps with the Buddhist and Hindu solar calendar.
Despite all the fun that is to be had during these festivities, it’s important not to forget the meaning behind this holiday. Traditionally and still to this day, Songkran represents a time for the people of Thailand to cleanse and rejuvenate their bodies and souls to end the year, preparing the body for good fortune in the year to come.
If you would like to live these festivities for yourself, then contact us today on info@villaerawansamui.com, ideal for both families and friends.
