A wet and wild time marks the New Year in Thailand
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting wet in Thailand from April 13 – 15 – it’s just New Year’s celebrations Thai style! The all day all night parties kick-off the traditional Buddhist New Year festivities. Much like the recent Chinese New Year, the Thai begin theirs with a thorough cleaning of the home called Wan Sungkharm Long. But after a little spring cleaning the two Asian countries’ traditions couldn’t be more different. While the Chinese tend to keep their celebrations a private affair the Thai make New Year an open, public event that takes to the Streets. The third day, known as Wan Payawan, is officially recognized as the first day of the year. People pack the Temples for morning ceremonies where food and clothing is offered. But Wan Payawan is best known for something else – water throwing. Symbolically meant to give blessing through water, the tradition often turns into street-filled water fights. In Northern Thailand the water blessings tend to be very traditional and tranquil, where the youth bless their elders with scented water. However, in the major city of Bangkok the traditions are loosened and a modern water gun fight ensues, helping to ensure anyone within range gets wet!
Traveling to Thailand to dampen spirits in a good way
For those traveling to Thailand to celebrate the New Year in a different way should be aware of the tradition. In many parts of the country water blessings have deep cultural importance. Not everywhere do huge water fights take place. Be respectful and use your best judgement.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting wet in Thailand from April 13 – 15 – it’s just New Year’s celebrations Thai style! The all day all night parties kick-off the traditional Buddhist New Year festivities. Much like the recent Chinese New Year, the Thai begin theirs with a thorough cleaning of the home called Wan Sungkharm Long. But after a little spring cleaning the two Asian countries’ traditions couldn’t be more different. While the Chinese tend to keep their celebrations a private affair the Thai make New Year an open, public event that takes to the Streets. The third day, known as Wan Payawan, is officially recognized as the first day of the year. People pack the Temples for morning ceremonies where food and clothing is offered. But Wan Payawan is best known for something else – water throwing. Symbolically meant to give blessing through water, the tradition often turns into street-filled water fights. In Northern Thailand the water blessings tend to be very traditional and tranquil, where the youth bless their elders with scented water. However, in the major city of Bangkok the traditions are loosened and a modern water gun fight ensues, helping to ensure anyone within range gets wet!
Traveling to Thailand to dampen spirits in a good way
For those traveling to Thailand to celebrate the New Year in a different way should be aware of the tradition. In many parts of the country water blessings have deep cultural importance. Not everywhere do huge water fights take place. Be respectful and use your best judgement.
