(Two landmark celebrations in Bangkok and nationwide festivities reinforce Songkran’s global standing and drive over 30 billion Baht in tourism revenue)
TTT NEWS NETWORK
KOLKATA | 11 APRIL 2026
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announces two landmark events in Bangkok to welcome the Thai New Year: the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026, running 11 – 15 April at Benchakitti Park, and the Saneh Art by Songkran Festival 2026, taking place 11 – 30 April at Lumphini Park. Together, these events reinforce UNESCO’s recognition of Songkran in Thailand as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, strengthening its position as a leading global festival.
The press launch was led by Mr. Nat Kruthasoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, together with Pol. Maj. Gen. Danu Klamsum, Commander of Tourist Police Division 1. Prominent Thai artists and celebrities were also in attendance.
Mr. Nat said, “These celebrations embody TAT’s Value over Volume direction, where cultural festivals are elevated into high-impact experiences that deliver quality tourism revenue and lasting value for Thai communities. By combining heritage with contemporary creativity and international engagement, we are strengthening Songkran’s global appeal while advancing Thailand as a year-round destination for meaningful, experience-led travel under the ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ concept.”
The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 presents Songkran’s cultural identity through a blend of Thai tradition and contemporary expression, reinforcing its UNESCO-recognised heritage while enhancing Thailand’s international image. Programming includes a grand opening ceremony, the Maha Songkran parade, cultural performances, contemporary showcases, and a large-scale drone light display. Distinct zones represent all five regions of Thailand, featuring cultural demonstrations, hands-on activities, a traditional temple fair atmosphere, sand pagoda building, and a Buddha image bathing ceremony, alongside dedicated areas for families and water-based entertainment.
The Saneh Art by Songkran Festival 2026 presents Thai charm through contemporary art, connecting Songkran traditions with modern creative expression. Six large-scale three-dimensional sculptures by Thai artists will be installed from 11 – 30 April at Lumphini Park. From 11 – 15 April, the programme expands to include art talks, markets, workshops, traditional Thai games, and a Check-in Challenge offering limited-edition prizes during the Songkran period.
TAT is also supporting and promoting Songkran activities across all regions of Thailand, delivering diverse Thai New Year experiences rooted in local identity. In the North, highlights include celebrations in Chiang Rai, Tak, Uttaradit, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, and Lamphun. In the Central region, Bangkok hosts multiple events across key districts and riverside landmarks, alongside traditional celebrations in Ayutthaya. In the East, celebrations take place in Samut Prakan and Chon Buri, while the Northeast features festivities in Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
In the South, events are held in Surat Thani (Ko Samui) and Phuket. For a comprehensive calendar of events across Bangkok and all five regions, refer to TAT’s announcement on Songkran Festival 2026, which includes a dedicated nationwide infographic.
Total tourism revenue during 11–15 April is projected to reach approximately 30.35 billion Baht, a 6% increase year-on-year. International arrivals are forecast at 500,000 visitors, up 4%, generating around 8.1 billion Baht in receipts, a 2% increase. Domestic travel is expected to reach 5,963,000 trips, up 7%, contributing approximately 22.25 billion Baht in tourism revenue, an 8% increase.
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