EXPERIENCE THAILAND’S VIBRANT SONGKRAN NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

Thailand’s New Year name is taken from ancient Sanskrit, with “Songkran” meaning “to pass” or “to move into” in reference to the zodiacal orbit of the sun, moon and other planets. Indeed Songkran is greatly influenced by ancient Indian beliefs. The festival coincides with Aries and spring’s new creations and life giving characteristics, which play a vital role in Thailand’s agricultural way of life.

As far back in time as the Sukhothai period, Songkran was celebrated in the palace’s royal court and nationwide. Civil servants and other government officials would pay homage to the King and drink the oath of allegiance, and in return receive their annual salary. During the Ayutthaya era, Songkran celebrations were embellished to include Buddha image bathing rituals, the creation of sand pagodas and cultural entertainment; customs which were continued into the Rattanakosin period.

Today Songkran is a time when Thai people enjoy a welcome break from their daily work routine, pay respects to ancestors and older generations, with younger Thais sprinkling scented water on the hands of their elders. Traditional rituals are accompanied by an atmosphere of enthusiastic celebration, in which traditional performances, processions and parties unite families, friends, society, culture and nature, culminating in the nation’s grandest festival.

This year at Anantara Vacation Club Phuket Mai Khao is celebrating the festive fun with traditional activities on 13^th April from 3 pm onward. Owners are immersed in tradition and dance alongside the staff in the Songkran Long Drum Parade followed by taking part in the world renowned water throwing activities. Later owners can enjoy the thrills of pool boxing while complimentary Thai snacks & shaved ice are available to beat the heat.  Anantara Vacation Club Chef prepares a sumptuous buffet from 4 regions of Thailand at ‘Chaam’ while fire dancers set the night ablaze.

Songkran is one of Thailand’s most popular events, if you can’t make it this year we recommend you to plan ahead for next year.

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