Note to first-timers: While Songkran is synonymous to water-splashing, you can’t just splash water anywhere. Bangkok and many big cities around Thailand have assigned specific spots and areas where people can have wild water fun and to inconvenience commuters who would like to keep dry.
If getting wet and wild is on your agenda, then make your way to these areas in the Thai capital.
Khaosan
The well-known backpacker area hosts its annual Songkran event, one of Bangkok’s best-known, from April 13 to 15. Get to enjoy water fun with revelers from around the world.
Date: April 13-15
Time: 12:00-20:00
Silom
This main road has always been popular during Songkran, thanks to a combination of upbeat music, good-looking attendees, and a flamboyant LGBT-friendly vibe.
Date: April 13-15
Time: 15:00-21:00
Siam
Bangkok’s teen central goes cultural (at least they’re trying to) this year. Party organizers are looking to incorporate a traditional way of celebrating Songkran with fun activities and musical performances by top artists.
Date: April 13-15
Time: 12:00 to 23:00
RCA
Known for its row of lively bars and clubs, RCA in Rama 9 is the place to be on Songkran evenings. Bars along the street will host their own parties—and you can expect them to be wild!
Date: April 11-16
Time: TBC till late
Samyan-Ban Tad Thong
This street food haven and one of the world’s “coolest streets”, as proclaimed by Time Out, will be hosting its first Songkran celebration on Chula Soi 5, a lane that runs parallel to Ban Tad Thong. The party features two concert stages, lots of water fun, and a caravan of party vans.
Date: April 13-15
Time: 12:00 to 23:00