Held every April during the hottest month of the year, Thailand turns into one giant, joy-soaked playground for Songkran – the country’s most beloved (and wettest!) celebration of the Thai New Year. What starts with a sweet, traditional gesture of pouring water over elders for blessings quickly escalates into a full-blown nationwide water fight.
Entire streets shut down, there’s music blasting, strangers turning into allies (or targets), and everyone – including locals, tourists, the young, and old – armed with water guns, buckets, and the biggest smiles you’ve seen. But Songkran isn’t just about getting drenched. It is also a time for visiting temples, reconnecting with loved ones, and washing away the old to welcome a fresh, new start.
It’s playful, meaningful, and an absolute bucket list experience. If you’re looking to soak up the spirit of Thai culture for Songkran, Marriot Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotels is inviting the world’s explorers to come together and make a splash this April.
Bangkok
In Bangkok from April 11th to 15th, embrace the essence of Thai New Year at the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, a cultural extravaganza spotlighting the timeless traditions of Songkran, from its ancient origins to the present day. It will take place at Sanam Luang, the verdant park overlooked by the golden spires of the Grand Palace.
Those taking part in the fun-filled event can expect to be transported to the five regions of Thailand through a series of zones and a marketplace featuring regional products and delicacies, plus temple fair activities, classical performances, sand pagoda building, and merit-making activities such as almsgiving, water-pouring ceremonies, and Buddhist bathing rituals. Also, don’t miss the water play zones, live music, and drone shows!
On April 12th and 13th, the festival will take to the streets surrounding Sanam Luang with grand parades. Those who want to experience this exhilarating celebration can stay at hotels including Le Méridien Bangkok, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, W Bangkok, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, and Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok.
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
If you’re heading up to Thailand’s northern hills, the Chiang Saen Songkran Festival isn’t to be missed, blending nature and culture whilst overlooking the Mekong River. Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai’s iconic celebrations which brings the spirit of the Lanna kingdom to life, is another great option. Soothing stays in the north can be enjoyed at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort and Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel.
Hua Hin and Pattaya
Hua Hin’s Phon King Phet Park is perfect for soaking up the history and culture of Songkran, and immersive escapes can be enjoyed at Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa and Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Over in Pattaya, the Wan Lai Festival is an extended Songkran celebration with parades, parties, and processions. Revellers can stay at Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa or Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa.
Phuket and Koh Samui
In Phuket, Patong Beach is a hotspot for water thrilling adventures, where visitors can have fun and unwind in style at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort, Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort, Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, or Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach.
As for Koh Samui, the soft sands of Chaweng Beach transform into a New Year party paradise. Here, guests can enjoy unforgettable respite at Sheraton Samui Resort or Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui.
Boasting over 60 hotels and resorts in Thailand, Marriott Bonvoy presents the Holiday Joy promotion, where members can enjoy an exclusive 5% discount all across the Land of Smiles. Additionally, guests can also book now and stay by April 28, 2025, to enjoy the fast track. Register here by April 14, 2025.
For more details about Marriott Bonvoy and to discover the magic of Songkran in Thailand, visit this website.
Featured image: Yavor Punchev
Images courtesy of Marriott
