High Five Facts - Songkran

The Songkran Festival marks the Thai New Year, celebrated with water to symbolize washing away the past year. It includes spring cleaning to remove bad luck, visiting Buddhist temples, and creating sand stupas. Water fights are a popular and fun tradition, with respect shown to elders and monks.

What is the main purpose of using water during the Songkran Festival?

• To cool down during the hot season

• To water the crops for a good harvest

• To symbolize washing away the past year

• To celebrate the end of the rainy season

Why do Thai families engage in spring cleaning during Songkran?

• To follow a government mandate

• To make space for new furniture

• To remove bad luck and sins from their homes

• To prepare their homes for guests

What is a common activity at Buddhist temples during Songkran?

• Painting the temple walls

• Lighting candles for good luck

• Planting trees in the temple garden

• Offering food to monks

What is the significance of bringing sand to Buddhist temples during Songkran?

• To use in religious ceremonies

• To create a foundation for new buildings

• To replace sand that has been lost over time

• To build sand castles for children

Who is typically exempt from being splashed during the Songkran water fights?

• Street vendors

• Teenagers

• Elderly people and monks

• Tourists