guide to 2011 Songkran dates and events across Thailand

[fotojourn]

The Thai Meteorological Department says a cold air system from China that crossed into Thailand yesterday, April 4 and today, April 5, will lower temperatures for the 2011 Songkran celebrations next week, with temperatures forecast to be around a mild 30C (86F), compared to the usual temperatures of around 40C (104F).

 

Ordinarily falling at the hottest time of the year, traditional Songkran activities include visiting temples to pray and give food to monks, with those performing the ritual believing it will bring prosperity and good luck for the New Year.

 

While Thailand’s Ministry of Culture might like to stress the religious and cultural activities that take part during the annual Songkran festival, the ancient Thai tradition of sprinkling a few drops of scented water onto the shoulder and slowly down the back of friends, relatives and acquaintances, has given way to all-out water warfare.

 

Guide to 2011 Songkran dates and events across Thailand