We’ve been living in Thailand since 2019, and I’ve seen my fair share of water fights, powder-smearing strangers, and soaked clothes. Songkran is wild. It’s messy. It’s beautiful. And with kids? It can either be total chaos—or tons of fun.
My girls are now 8 and 4 (Ruby was born in Koh Samui!), and after a few chaotic early years—think crying toddlers, overstimulation, and “why did we come here again?” moments—we’ve figured out how to do Songkran Festival right as a family.
So if you’re wondering how to celebrate Songkran with kids without losing your mind, keep reading. I’ve got all the tips, best places, and honest moments right here.
What is Songkran, Anyway?
It’s Thai New Year, celebrated every April with… water. Lots of it.
But it’s more than just a giant splash party. The word Songkran comes from the Sanskrit word Sankranti, which means “astrological shift.” It marks the sun’s movement into Aries and the start of a new solar year in Thai tradition.
Before the water fights took over, Songkran was a peaceful and spiritual holiday. Thai people would visit temples, clean Buddha statues, pour fragrant water over the hands of elders to show respect, and release birds and fish to gain merit. It’s a time to forgive, to reflect, and to start fresh—with a clean house, a clean heart, and, well, a very wet T-shirt.
The water festival officially runs from April 13–15, but in reality? It stretches up to a week in some places. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find celebrations going for five days straight. In Bangkok, the roads are often closed for parades, cultural performances and water zones. Even tiny villages join in—with their own drums, dances, and sometimes elephants (I find this very sad!).
Songkran is huge. Over 20 million Thais travel across the country to reunite with family. And it’s not just locals—millions of tourists come just for this celebration. Hotels book out fast. The roads get busy. And the number of water guns sold in Thailand basically doubles overnight.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and splashing. Every year, the Thai government launches the “Seven Dangerous Days” road safety campaign during Songkran. It’s a time when road accidents—especially involving motorbikes—sadly increase. That’s why it’s so important to stay off scooters and be mindful, especially when celebrating with kids.
Still, despite the madness, it’s one of the most joyful holidays I’ve ever experienced. It’s pure, silly, collective happiness. People of all ages, backgrounds, and languages coming together to drench each other and say: “Happy New Year!”
No gifts, no shopping pressure. Just water, smiles, and a reminder to let go of the old and welcome the new—with open arms and a soaked shirt.
How Thai Families Celebrate Songkran with Kids (The Calm Side)
Before the buckets and chaos, Songkran was a quiet, beautiful holiday in Thai culture.
Thai families still start the day by going to the temple. They offer food to monks, pour scented water over Buddha statues, and build little sand pagodas (chedi sai) in the temple yard. It’s all about showing respect, washing away bad luck, and starting fresh.
If you’re up early with your kids (thanks, toddlers), visiting a local temple before the street parties start is such a sweet experience.
Our Songkran Highlights – From Tears to Cheers
We’ve now celebrated Songkran with kids in Koh Phangan, Phuket, and Koh Samui.
- Koh Phangan was sweet but small. Thongsala and Ban Tai had a bit going on, but nothing too exciting.
- Phuket felt like a battlefield. The music in Patong and Rawai was so loud, my kids were terrified. We lasted maybe 10 minutes before we bailed.
- Koh Samui was the game changer.
Here’s how it went:
In the morning, everything was still calm. We had breakfast at Fisherman’s Village—dry hair, dry clothes, peaceful sea breeze.
Then we went back to our villa for lunch and rest (important tip: don’t start early if you have small kids!).
By 3 PM, we loaded the car with swimsuits, towels, sunglasses, and water guns. Off to Lamai we went.
The Real Deal: Songkran Celebrations in Lamai with Kids
When we arrived, the energy was buzzing. Buckets of water, music at every shop, and people shouting “Happy New Year!” to everyone passing by.
Scooters and trucks were soaked. Pedestrians too. And we were right in the middle of it.
Ruby (4) was mostly in my arms—walking with a small child in that crowd felt safer. My husband held hands with Lila (8), and the four of us splashed and laughed our way down the street. Yes, we got soaked. Yes, we got surprise buckets of ice water dumped on us (bbrrrrr!!). And yes, we all had white baby powder smeared across our faces.
But the best part? Everyone was so sweet to the kids. Gentle smiles. Hugs. Little chats. The girls didn’t get overwhelmed at all—instead, they had the time of their lives.
A Beach Break (Because Everyone Needs a Breather)
After about half an hour of walking, splashing, laughing, and getting splashed in return, we decided it was time for a break.
We walked over to the beach, grabbed some ice cream, and just relaxed.
It was the perfect reset before round two.
Ending the Day with Buckets of (Water-)Joy
On the way back to our car, we passed a group of people celebrating in front of a small resort. They had huge buckets of water and water hoses to keep refilling. We decided that this will be our team.
Next thing I know, we’re standing with them, cheering on the scooters and pickup trucks passing by. The girls were in heaven. Ruby grabbed a tiny bucket and poured water over herself again and again. Twenty minutes of self-splashing joy. She was soaked and so happy.
Eventually, we made it back to the car. Traffic? Total mess. But honestly, I didn’t even mind. Watching the chaos from our (dry) seats was kind of fun.
When we got home, we were drenched, sandy, sticky, and exhausted. But smiling.
Definitely our best Songkran ever.
What I’ve Learned – Tips for Songkran with Kids
Here’s everything I wish someone had told me before our first Songkran:
1. It can be loud and a little wild
The music, the crowds, the yelling—it’s not always toddler-friendly. If your little one gets scared easily, keep it short. Ruby was 1 when I brought her to Songkran the first time. I carried her in the Ergobaby, and we lasted maybe 20 minutes before she had enough.
2. Swimsuits > regular clothes
Much more comfortable when soaked. Less clinging, faster drying.
3. Bring a waterproof bag
You won’t just get a little wet. You’ll be drenched. Towels, dry clothes, and something to protect your valuables = must.
4. Pack extra towels in the car
Trust me. Sitting on a soggy car seat is not the grand finale you want.
5. Don’t worry about water refills
There are giant buckets (often trash cans!) everywhere. People love sharing. No one will say no to your little one refilling their water pistol.
6. Put on sunscreen—well in advance
You’ll be too distracted once the splashing starts. Get it on everyone before you leave the house. And don’t forget the back of the neck and ears!
7. Timing is everything
Avoid the midday heat. The best time with kids? Around 3 PM, when it’s cooler but still lively (and not too drunk yet).
8. No scooters on Songkran
Just don’t. Especially not with kids. Songkran sadly comes with a spike in traffic accidents every year—mostly scooter-related.
9. Don’t expect peace and quiet
It’s loud. It’s chaotic. It’s wet. But it’s also so much fun. Go with the flow (literally).
Too Much? Try These Low-Key Songkran Spots
If you’re in Thailand during Songkran but your baby’s not ready for a bucket-to-the-face moment, head to calmer places.
Some ideas:
- Malls like Central Festival or Terminal 21 often have foam parties or indoor water zones
- Kid cafés sometimes host toddler-safe celebrations with water tables and crafts
- And of course—the beach! Great for a splash without the chaos
Always check local Facebook groups for family-friendly updates (especially “BKK Parents & Kids,” “Chiang Mai Family Guide,” or “Phuket Expat Families”).
Best Family-Friendly Songkran Spots
Bangkok:
- Children’s Discovery Museum
- Many buddhist temples host gentle rituals in the morning
Chiang Mai:
- Mornings near Tha Pae Gate are festive but less wild
- Avoid the moat area (along the body of water) after noon—it gets intense
Phuket:
- Central Festival or Jungceylon Mall
- Avoid Patong if you want to keep your eardrums
Koh Samui (our fave):
- Fisherman’s Village for calm mornings
- Lamai in the afternoon for family water fun
- Beaches for a quiet break
Fun (and Crazy) Songkran Facts
Let’s throw in some trivia. Kids love random facts!
- Over 10 million liters of water get used during Songkran
- 20+ million Thais travel during the holiday
- Songkran dates back hundreds of years and started with gentle, respectful water pouring
- It’s celebrated not only in Thailand, but also in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar
- Some elephants (in places I don’t recommend) are still part of old-style parades
Where to Stay in Thailand for Songkran with Kids?
Bangkok
Shangri-La Bangkok
- From $162 (€150) per night (Deluxe River View Room)
- Riverside location with stunning views
Chiang Mai
InterContinental Chiang Mai
- From $121 (€111) per night (Classic Room)
- Modern rooms with city or mountain views
Koh Samui
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
- From $230 (€212) per night (Family Room)
- Read my honest review here!
Phuket
Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach
- From $331 (€305) per night (Family Room)
- Overlooking Naithon Beach with direct access
- Read my honest review here!
Key Takeaways
- Songkran runs from April 13–15 (but can last up to a week)
- Mornings are calm—visit a temple or local beach
- Best time to join water fights with kids: around 3 PM
- Avoid scooters—accidents rise during the festival
- Pack swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and waterproof bags
- Lamai (Koh Samui) and Tha Pae Gate (Chiang Mai) are family favorites
👉 You might also like:
– Celebrating Christmas in Thailand
– 35 Interesting Facts About Thailand, I Bet You Didn’t Know
Final Thoughts on How to Celebrate Songkran with Kids
Celebrating Songkran with kids takes a bit of planning—but it’s so worth it!
Have you celebrated Songkran in Thailand with your little ones yet? I’d love to hear your tips and favorite moments—share them in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ: Songkran With Kids
What Is Songkran for Kids?
Songkran for kids is the family-friendly side of Thailand’s New Year festival. It usually includes gentle water play, small water guns, temple visits in the morning, and short water-fight sessions in calmer areas rather than all-day street parties.
Is Songkran Kid-Friendly?
Yes, Songkran can be kid-friendly if you choose the right locations and times. Mornings, beaches, malls, temples, and quieter streets are best for families. Busy party zones and late afternoons are less suitable for young children.
What Not to Do During Songkran With Kids?
Do not ride scooters or motorbikes, especially with children. Avoid loud party areas, heavy crowds, late-night celebrations, and places where ice water or buckets are thrown from close range. Always limit exposure time for toddlers.
Are Kids Allowed at Songkran Events in Bangkok?
Yes, kids are allowed at many Songkran events in Bangkok. Family-friendly options include malls, museums, temples, and organized water zones. Rooftop bars and adult party areas are generally not suitable for children during Songkran.
What Is the Traditional Family Side of Songkran?
Traditionally, Songkran focuses on family, respect, and renewal. Thai families visit temples, pour scented water over Buddha statues, gently wash elders’ hands, clean their homes, and spend time together before public water celebrations begin.
