Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 opens in Bangkok

Thailand

Five-day celebration at Benchakitti Park highlights Thailand’s UNESCO-recognised Songkran tradition

Thailand has officially launched the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 in Bangkok. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the event runs from 11 to 15 April at Benchakitti Park and combines cultural heritage, music performances and traditional water celebrations. The festival is one of the largest Songkran gatherings in the country and reinforces Thailand’s efforts to present Songkran as a globally recognised cultural celebration.

Opening ceremony and cultural symbolism

The opening ceremony on 11 April was attended by Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, together with representatives from public institutions and the private sector.

A highlight of the opening evening was the Maha Songkran World Event parade on the main stage, presenting this year’s Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdevi. The role was portrayed by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 is a celebration designed for everyone — across generations, regions and the world. It brings together the very best of Thai culture and contemporary festivity, reinforcing Songkran’s standing as a truly global festival. With UNESCO’s recognition of Songkran in Thailand as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, we are proud to present an experience that is deeply rooted in tradition and boldly modern, further establishing Thailand as a world-class festival destination.”

Cultural zones showcase Thailand’s regional diversity

A central element of the festival is the “Songkran 5 Regions” zone, open daily from late morning to evening. The area presents Thailand’s regional traditions through performances, local product exhibitions and temple fair activities. Visitors can take part in customary Songkran rituals such as building sand pagodas and bathing Buddha images.

The festival also includes areas designed specifically for families and elderly visitors, ensuring accessibility for all generations. More than 100 stalls offer Thai cuisine and locally produced goods.

Music, DJs and evening drone shows

Live music plays a major role throughout the five-day celebration. Thai artists perform on the main stage each evening, presenting a mix of contemporary and cultural shows. The programme features well-known performers including Palmy, Bodyslam, Joey Boy, Ink Waruntorn and Getsunova.

In a separate zone dedicated to water play and electronic music, DJs perform throughout the late afternoon and evening. The festival day concludes with a large drone light show, where more than 1,200 drones illuminate the Bangkok skyline.

Safety and visitor access

Organisers emphasise that safety and visitor management are key priorities. Public agencies, including the Tourist Police Bureau, work together with event partners to provide security, crowd guidance and visitor assistance throughout the festival area.

The Maha Songkran World Water Festival takes place at Benchakitti Park in central Bangkok. Admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, with easy access from the BTS Asok station and the MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre station.