BANGKOK, Thailand – Bangkok officially launched the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 with a grand opening ceremony at Sanam Luang, presided over by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Cabinet members, foreign ambassadors, and members of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee were also in attendance. Running from April 11 to 15, the festival is Thailand’s largest annual celebration, blending cultural performances, traditional rituals, music, and large-scale water festivities that attract both Thai and international visitors.
The opening parade featured eight themed floats and over 500 performers in traditional attire. Each segment represented elements of Thai heritage, from seasonal abundance and folk arts to cultural icons such as elephants and tuk-tuks. The festival grounds at Sanam Luang are divided into interactive zones, including performance stages, blessing areas, a marketplace, and expansive water-play areas. Free shuttle services are available daily from MRT Sanam Chai Station and Central Pinklao to facilitate visitor access.
In her opening remarks, the prime minister described Songkran as a growing national celebration with the potential to boost cultural identity and tourism. She noted that extending the festival beyond its traditional three-day period would encourage longer visits and greater participation. The government is promoting April as a key month for tourism, with coordinated celebrations taking place across provinces nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the festival is expected to generate more than 26 billion baht in tourism revenue. Forecasts include 476,000 international arrivals and 4.4 million domestic trips. The Sanam Luang event alone is projected to welcome over 800,000 visitors, with a local economic contribution estimated at over 3 billion baht.
Public safety remains a central concern throughout the festivities. The Tourist Police are offering support through a dedicated mobile app featuring GPS tracking, an SOS alert function, and direct links to emergency hotlines. With its combination of cultural celebration, entertainment, and economic stimulus, Songkran 2025 underscores Thailand’s ambition to become a global destination for major festivals. (NNT)
