Posted by Jackie Hewett on Wed 12th March 2008 at 01:08 AM, Filed in Far East, April
This is possibly Thailand’s biggest annual festival and marks the start of the Buddhist New Year…..with water! It starts on April 13th and lasts at least 3 days to the 15th, but in some parts of the country it goes on for up to 10 days and Pattaya celebrates in the following week. As it is an official holiday most businesses, including government offices and many shops, are closed.
Everyone gets wet, including Buddha images, which are bathed on the 13th as part of the ceremonies. Today families pack into the back of pickup trucks use water guns, hoses and buckets to fire their water missiles in ‘drive-by’ squirtings that go on until sun down. Traffic can be bumper to bumper, and one downside is that unfortunately road fatalities increase as people ride on bus and train roofs and driving can be even more erratic. Tourists are not exempt from a soaking as eager water throwers have been known to board buses or hurl buckets of liquid through open windows and even police officers are considered fair game, albeit a little more gently than the general public. The important thing is that it is all in good spirit, and as it’s quite a hot time of the year an impromptu shower can be a welcome relief! Be warned however that some Thais also throw white powder to ward off evil spirits, but its not good for your eyes (wear sun glasses) or your camera (keep it in a plastic bag and be careful when you are using it).
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