Songkran: Thailand's Water Festival

Songkran, Thailand's traditional New Year festival, takes place every April. It's famous for its exciting water fights that fill the streets with laughter and fun. People of all ages join in, using water guns and buckets to splash each other in the hot summer weather.

But Songkran is more than just water battles. It's a time for important cultural traditions too. Many Thais visit temples to pour scented water on Buddha statues, a ritual called Song Nam Phra. They also show respect to elders by gently pouring water on their hands and asking for blessings.

The festival is also a feast for food lovers. A popular treat during Songkran is mango sticky rice, a delicious dessert made with sweet rice, ripe mangoes, and coconut cream. It's especially enjoyed during this time when mangoes are in season and at their best.