The
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is organising a variety of events
from 6 to 21 April 2013 to celebrate the Thai New Year under the name
“Songkran Splendours.”
The
holiday, which falls during the hottest month of the year in
Thailand, celebrates the conventional calendar’s “astrological
passage” and is marked by throwing water on anyone within splashing
range.
TAT
considers Songkran a unique festival which has captured the attention
of many Thai and foreign travellers alike, and as a result it is
holding simultaneous events in different areas of the country. The
festival has been actively promoted at overseas marketing showswith
the ultimate goal to introduce it as a world event.
“Songkran
is definitely the festival that Thais most look forward to because it
brings together family and friends to celebrate the Thai New Year by
honouring their elders, while engaging in day-long fun by splashing
water on friends and passersby. It is a unique combination of
honouring ancient traditions and having fun, which makes Songkran
popular with visitors looking for an unforgettable Thai experience.”
said Mr. Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority.
This
year features a wealth of Songkran-related activities throughout the
country. Peoplecan participate in an assortment of activities ranging
from beauty pageants and oyster shelling competitions, to sprinkling
water on sacred Buddha statues and making food offerings at temples.
The
grand opening of the festival takes place in Bangkok and will feature
events at four popular temples in the city, plus the area around Siam
Paragon, and also a designated stretch along the Chao Phraya River.
“In
2013, we’ve ensured that visitors to Thailand can partake in an
array of events happening throughout the country so they can explore
and experience how people from various regions of the country
celebrate the Songkran Festival," added Mr. Suraphon.
