PATTAYA, Thailand – The annual Songkran “Wan Lai” celebration on Koh Si Chang, just a 30-minute drive from Pattaya, turned lively and colourful as Chonburi Governor Narit Niramaiwong led officials and locals in the island’s famous traditional ritual known as the “carry-the-girl-into-the-sea” ceremony, April 18, a cultural highlight believed to be unique in Thailand.
The event was held at Hat Koh Kham Yai in Tha Thewawong Subdistrict, Koh Si Chang District, drawing large numbers of Thai and foreign tourists who gathered to witness and take part in the seaside festivities.
The ceremony was officially opened by the governor, alongside local administrator Sorasak Petra and community leaders, with thousands of visitors filling the beach area in a festive and friendly atmosphere.
The highlight of the event came when the governor and participating officials joined in the symbolic ritual of carrying participants into the sea, a tradition that brought laughter, cheers, and playful interaction along the shoreline. Visitors were later invited to join the activity, creating a vibrant scene throughout the day.
The “carry-the-girl-into-the-sea” tradition is considered a long-standing cultural identity of Koh Si Chang, dating back to the reign of King Rama V. Historically, the island faced water shortages during the dry season, and freshwater use during Songkran was limited. As a result, locals adapted by celebrating the festival using seawater instead.
Over time, the tradition evolved into a symbolic community activity. Young men would ask permission before carrying women they admired into the sea, while families also took part by carrying elders into the water as a gesture of respect and blessings for good fortune.
Today, the ritual is preserved as a cultural heritage event that reflects the island’s simple way of life and strong community bonds.
Beyond the signature ceremony, the festival also featured merit-making activities, alms-giving, Buddha image bathing, coconut-leaf climbing competitions, boat rowing games, traditional folk performances, and sand pagoda building, adding to the lively Songkran atmosphere throughout the day.
The event continues to be one of Koh Si Chang’s most distinctive cultural attractions, blending heritage, community participation, and tourism into a uniquely local Songkran experience.
