Where to get soaked in Bangkok this Songkran

Why go? From April 12-14, the entire street will be closed from 1pm to 9pm and transformed into an enormous water playground. Picture crowds with water guns, DJs blasting tunes and street vendors selling everything from waterproof pouches to icy drinks – it's non-stop fun from start to finish. What makes Silom even splashier is its lively LGBTQ+ scene, with plenty of gay clubs and bars adding to the party vibes. Expect colourful crowds dancing in the streets and bringing extra energy to the celebrations. And girls, no need to stress about dressing too sexy – the folks here are all about good vibes and having fun.

Time Out tip: Bring your own water guns and avoid the skyrocketing prices on the street. There’s no need to spend more than you need to.

Get there: Getting here is a breeze. Simply take the MRT to Silom station or the BTS to Saladaeng station, then it's just a quick stroll towards the watery mayhem.

Why go? Located in the heart of Bangkok, Khaosan Road is well-known worldwide for its hectic nightlife. This short street is packed with bars, street eats and clubs – often dubbed the ‘backpacker hub’. So, it’s no surprise that during Thai New Year, it becomes the ultimate water battleground for both locals and tourists. From April 13-15, water guns, buckets, and anything else that can hold water become the weapons of choice as the street turns into an epic party zone. The atmosphere gets even wilder with outdoor stages set up by bars and clubs along the road, where DJs and live music keep the crowd dancing all day and night.

Time Out tip:  Khaosan Road can get pretty wild during the festival. Don’t be surprised if someone smears powder on your face, as it’s all part of the fun. But if you don’t like it, just say no. We’d also recommend bringing goggles to protect your eyes and enjoy the chaos.

Get there: Take the MRT to Sanam Chai station, then hop on a tuk-tuk or taxi for a quick ride. 

Why go? If you're looking for a more relaxed yet still festive place to celebrate Songkran, Siam Square is the place to be. It combines the charm of traditional Thai culture with the splashy fun of the festival. From April 13-15, between 11am and 10pm, the area will come alive with ‘Songkran Siam Pha Khao Ma’, an event inspired by traditional Thai customs. The pha khao ma is a traditional checkered cloth, often worn as a sarong or wrapped around the waist. Visitors are encouraged to wear this traditional attire to join in the celebration. In addition to the water fun, it also features different zones, including concerts where you can enjoy live performances from top local artists such as 4Eve, Atlas, Maiyarap, Slapkiss and many more. 

Time Out tip:  While the event embraces traditional culture, it’s best to avoid overly revealing outfits. Security guards will check your attire before entry and if your clothes don’t meet the guidelines, don’t worry. You can easily pick up a pha khao ma to cover up – just keep in mind, it’s not free.

Get there: Take the BTS to Siam Station, which is directly connected to the area.

Why go?  For a fun, clean and alcohol-free celebration, Samyan Mitrtown ticks all the boxes. On April 13-15, from 2pm to 8pm, they team up with DOS Life and the Ministry of Culture to bring you Samyan Mitrtown Songkran 2025. Enjoy the 100-meter-long water playground and groove to mini concerts by popular artists across the three days. Since Songkran is all about fresh starts, visitors can also join in merit-making for good fortune. The event features the Thai Thai Zone, with activities including the sand playground and the chance to pay respects by offering water blessings to a replica of Buddha images representing each day of the week.

Time Out tip: As the event focuses more on celebrating tradition, we recommend staying sober and keeping things clean to fully enjoy the experience.

Get there: Take the MRT to Sam Yan Station, then it's just a short walk to Samyan Mitrtown. 

Why go?  When it comes to festivities, Central World never holds back. It's always a hotspot for celebrations, just like its iconic Christmas tree. This Songkran, they're cranking things up with two exciting events taking over Central World Square. From April 12-14, Thai Rhythm sets the stage for epic water fights and live tunes from local stars such as Proxie and Lamyai Haithongkham. Then, from April 18-20, the party keeps going with FWD Music Live Fest 4 where top brands and artists such as Tattoo Colour, The Toys and Jeff Satur keep the energy high and the good times flowing.

Time Out tip:  The concert can get crowded, so arriving early is your best bet if you want a good spot to catch your favourite acts up close. 

Get there: Take the BTS to Chit Lom or Siam Station, then it's just a short walk via the skywalk to Central World.

Why go? This riverside destination transforms into a haven for Thai New Year festivities from April 10–16, kicking off with the Grand Parade. Watch iconic Thai actresses lead a dazzling procession with lively music, traditional dances and symbolic water splashes, all reflecting Thailand’s rich heritage and the spirit of renewal. Then, immerse yourself in the Festival of Water, where a water-splash installation with special effects lets you feel the full thrill of the water-filled extravaganza. For a more serene experience, engage in the sacred water-pouring ceremony, where you can pour water over a Buddha statue to receive blessings of prosperity and peace. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to bring extra clothes if you’re planning to join the splash zone, as you might end up drenched and chilly inside the department store.

Get there: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Iconsiam Pier or hop off at BTS’s Charoennakorn Station. 

Why go?  Sanam Luang is turning up the heat this April with the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025. From April 11–15, this iconic park near the Grand Palace will be buzzing with non-stop fun, thanks to a ton of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) sponsored parades and parties Eight dazzling parades will overtake Ratchadamnoen Klang Road with vibrant colours, music and cultural pride. Don’t miss the Water Splash Zone, where EDM beats keep the party going while you get soaked. And when night falls, look up – 1,200 drones will light up the sky with jaw-dropping formations that tell the story of the festival.

Time Out tip: Even though it’s just a stone's throw from Khaosan Road, this spot has a different vibe. Since it's a public event organised by TAT, things are a bit more laid-back. We recommend starting your day here before fully embracing the chaos on Khaosan Road.

Get there: Hop on a Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at Tha Chang Pier. From there, it’s just a short walk to Sanam Luang. Alternatively, take the MRT to Sanam Chai Station and walk a few minutes to reach the park.

Why go? The Chang Chui Songkran Fest 2025 in the Pinklao area is a perfect spot for those looking to celebrate outside of the city centre. Running from April 12-16, 11am to midnight, this five-day event has something for everyone, including kids and families. Get ready for water fights in the area around the iconic big airplane, where you can splash around and have fun. Afterward, enjoy live music every night at 9.30pm, with a stellar lineup including Skykick Ranger and The Richman Toy X Image Suthita. Plus, there’s delicious food, drinks and even fun games like balloon darts to keep the excitement flowing as you ring in the Thai New Year.

Time Out tip: Chang Chui Songkran Fest is a bit off the beaten path, so if you're heading there, plan your transportation in advance and be prepared to wait for a Grab home.

Get there:  Take the MRT to Sirindhorn or Bang Bamru Station, then hop onto a local bus or take a short taxi ride to Chang Chui.