Songkran 2016 Dates | Extended periods in Pattaya Bang Saray
The Songkran Festival 2016 is nearly here and many holidaymakers are preparing to travel to Pattaya and Bangsaray to enjoy this popular Thai tradition which happens once every year which is celebrated In the middle regions of Thailand from the 13th to 15th of April but In Pattaya they have an extended period called “Wan-Lai” where the real action kicks In making these dates a must for water action. Songkran 2016 dates in Pattaya are 16, 17, 18 and 19
Pattaya and Bangsaray are known for its iconic water festival, which is mostly celebrated by young people. Major streets are closed for transportation means and are used as Arenas for water fights. Celebrants, young or old, participate in this tradition by splashing water on each other. More importantly, traditional parades are held, where cars are decorated with traditional ornaments. Also, Central Festival on Pattaya Beach road often holds a pageant contest, or “Miss Songkran 2016” where contestants are dressed in traditional Thai clothing.
Pattaya during the week of Songkran goes mental! Nothing comes close to this spectacular week, and for this reason more than half a million people from all over Thailand and abroad flood into Pattaya.
Songkran usually starts as early as the 11th of April and peaks on the 19th of April with many people booking their holidays exactly for the purpose of joining the water combat zone and having an experience of a lifetime.
What to do during Songkran 2016 Dates in Pattaya?
Calm before the storm? Unlike other regions which Is the peak period for water activity, Pattaya is actually pretty calm during these dates making other nearby destinations like Bangsaray an alternative for getting a feel of the true Songkran Thai tradition which you will miss out If your just in Pattaya city which is catered for Tourists.
Places you must visit during this years Songkran Festival 2016
13th to 15th – Bang Saray Beach
Bang Saray has one of the most beautiful beaches on the Eastern Seaboard. Located 10 kilometers from Sattahip, which is the largest Naval base in Thailand. The entire beach areas are spotless and food vendors and locals follow the example set by the Navy. Just a few hundred meters from the beach road stands the impressive Bang Saray Temple with its tall roofs and beautifully decorated spires. The whole area is full of lush greenery and open spaces. The area has a range of beautiful restaurants, bars and shops as well as it’s own local market selling fish produce and seafood straight from the pier. There are currently two luxury housing developments and two eco friendly low-rise condos allowed to be built in the area but for the most part Bang Saray retains it’s old world charm.
16th and 17th – The Naklua area of North Pattaya
This year, It is expected to have thousands of people crowding around Naklua splashing water at each other. At Wat Phothisamphan Temple there were also traditional activities held. Sand pagodas were made and beautifully decorated. People made merit early in the morning for good luck and also to start a fresh new beginning.
Along the roads of Naklua friends stayed in groups and enjoyed dancing and watering people passing by
18th and 19th – The Big Party!
The beach road and all adjacent roads are closed to traffic, creating a 3 mile long water fun road with thousands of people attending, all soaking each other and taking part in the fun.
