CHIANG MAI, Thailand – The first day of Songkran water festivities in Chiang Mai kicked off with vibrant energy, undeterred by the sweltering heat. The city moat area and Tha Phae Gate plaza, popular spots for both locals and tourists, were packed with revelers splashing water and celebrating with joy.
In the afternoon, increasing numbers of Thai and foreign tourists, along with Chiang Mai locals, poured into the streets dressed in colorful outfits and armed with water guns. The area around Tha Phae Gate and the adjacent moat quickly became crowded with pickup trucks, motorcycles, and vehicles equipped with water tanks, roaming the streets in high spirits.
Many foreign tourists expressed that they specifically came to Chiang Mai to experience the Songkran Festival, describing it as a must-do at least once in a lifetime. They were drawn not only by the water fights but also by the beautiful blend of cultural scenery. Tha Phae Gate plaza transformed into a cultural hub, adorned with traditional Lanna flags (Tung) and featuring sand pagoda contests, reflecting the region’s heritage through the “Pee Mai Mueang” (Lanna New Year) festivities.
Meanwhile, local vendors set up booths selling water guns, waterproof pouches, silver bowls, jasmine garlands, as well as food and drinks. As usual, the top-selling item was ice blocks, eagerly bought by Songkran participants to cool their water tanks, offering refreshing splashes to beat the heat and boost the festive fun. (TNA)
