PATTAYA, Thailand – One of the most vibrant and festive Songkran events, the Wan Lai Festival in Pattaya and Naklua, will take place on April 18–19, 2025, drawing both Thai and international tourists to experience the joyful atmosphere of Thai New Year. The event features full-scale water play, traditional ceremonies, and cultural performances that highlight the richness of Thai heritage.
April 18 – Naklua Wan Lai Festival at Lan Pho Public Park
The celebration in Naklua begins early at Lan Pho Public Park with a series of traditional and spiritual activities:
07:00 AM: Gathering of local residents at the park
07:30 AM: Alms-giving ceremony with rice and dry food offerings to Buddhist monks
08:30 AM: Buddhist chanting, followed by the official opening and New Year blessings
08:45 AM: Bathing of Buddha images, water-pouring ceremony for the elderly, and Thai cultural performances
09:30 AM: Parade of floral floats and Buddha statues through Naklua Market for public participation in water blessings
To facilitate the celebrations, a one-way traffic system will be in effect from 2:30 PM to 9:30 PM in the Naklua area:
Sawang Fa Road: One-way from Sukhumvit Road to Nam Chai Intersection
Naklua Road: One-way from Nam Chai Intersection to Photisan Intersection
Photisan Road: One-way from Photisan to Sukhumvit Road
Pho Ngam Road: One-way from Lan Pho Intersection to Sawang Boriboon Foundation
April 19 – Pattaya Wan Lai Festival at Wat Chai Mongkol (Royal Temple)
On the following day, the celebration moves to central Pattaya at Wat Chai Mongkol:
07:30 AM: Morning alms offering to monks
08:30 AM: Presentation of certificates honoring the elderly, followed by sacred bathing of Buddha images and water-pouring ceremony
09:00 AM: Opening speech and traditional Thai performances, including community displays and local sports
12:00 PM: Parade of floral floats and Buddha statues, starting from Wat Chai Mongkol, moving along Pattaya Second Road, then to Central Pattaya Road, down to Beach Road, and looping back to the temple
Traffic will be closed from 3:00 PM to midnight at North, Central, and South Pattaya intersections, Thepprasit Intersection, and along Beach Road from Tops Supermarket to Soi 13/4. Parking is prohibited in these areas from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM for safety and parade facilitation.
Safety and Conduct Guidelines
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, Pattaya City urges participants to follow these rules:
Do not sell any goods on the beachside sidewalks
Do not use water guns made from PVC pipes (violators will face legal consequences)
Avoid using powder during water play
Wear modest clothing
Refrain from consuming alcohol and intoxicating substances
Celebrate Songkran with respect, safety, and the spirit of Thai tradition.
