Happy Thai New Year from Thai Taste!
Every year from the 13th-15th April, Songkran or Thai New Year is celebrated all over Thailand. This three day festival is a time for renewal, cleaning, family and fun for all Thai people. Songkran traditions to prepare for the year ahead are hugely important and often include a thorough cleaning of homes and gardens, preparing and delivering of food to monks in local monasteries, remembering and spending time with loved ones and of course, the most famous of all Songkran activities, water throwing!
Throughout Songkran, everyone roams the streets with water pistols, hoses and buckets of water hoping to drench whoever they find. There are many traditional and symbolic reasons behind this water throwing. It is said to represent the washing away of everything bad from the past year to welcome the New Year with a fresh, clean slate. It is also associated with bringing rain to prevent drought and encourage a bountiful rice harvest. At the hottest time of year in Thailand, this water throwing festival is very much welcomed and enjoyed by both Thais and tourists alike!
It may not be quite warm enough for you to have your own water fight, but you can still join in the fun of Thai New Year. Check out our Recipes page to see a selection of simple and delicious authentic Thai dishes to really impress your family and friends. Or find us on Facebook for more fun ideas or to let us know how you spent your Songkran!
Published: 13th April 2011
