Songkran in Thailand’s most famous festival. An important event on the Buddhist
calendar, this water festival marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. Water is an
important element of Songkran, especially in more recent times when the throwing of water has
become a huge part of the annual celebrations. If you’re visiting Thailand during this period, don’t
be surprised if you get splashed. Crowds of people roam around throwing buckets of water, using
water pistols and just generally soaking anyone in the vicinity. Appreciation of family is another
important aspect of the festival, with many Thai people making their way to their hometowns to
spend time with older relatives. Buddhists also visit temples throughout Songkran where water is
poured on Buddha images and on the hands of Buddhist monks as a mark of respect.
Without a doubt, Songkran is a hugely important festival to the Thai people but it’s also very
popular with visitors and many tourists specifically arrange their holidays around this unique event. Anyone and
everyone can and will get involved in the celebrations. If you’re out and about during Songkran, you’re almost
guaranteed to end up soaked but you’ll have lots of fun in the process!
T F
61.Songkran is considered the festival of the traditional Thai New Year.
62.Water has been used during the festival recently but not in the past.
63.People have many ways to make each other wet with water.
64.Songkran is also an occasion for people to go back to the hometown to spend
time with their relatives.
65.It is certainly not a religious festival.
66.Everyone visits temples to pour water on Buddha images to show their respect.
67.The Thai do not let foreigners participate in the festival.
68.Songkran is actually a very important festival in Thailand.
69.Nearly everyone gets wet after taking part in the festival.
70.The festival only has the religious meaning but it is not enjoyable.
