Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 Opens in Bangkok
Songkran Festival Brings Culture and Celebration to Bangkok
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has opened the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park . Running until 15 April, the five-day event combines cultural traditions, live performances and water-based festivities, forming part of the wider Songkran celebrations in the capital.
Surasak PhancharoenworakulThe opening ceremony on 11 April was attended by Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, along with representatives from both public and private sectors.
Thapanee KiatphaiboolTAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the festival is designed to bring people across generations and regions together while reflecting both traditional and contemporary aspects of Thai culture. She also noted the significance of Songkran's recognition by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, reinforcing its cultural value and international appeal.
Opening night featured the Maha Songkran World Event parade, highlighting this year's Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdevi, portrayed by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.
A dedicated "Songkran 5 Regions" zone, open daily from 11:00 to 22:00, showcases Thailand's regional diversity through performances, local crafts and interactive activities. Visitors can take part in traditional experiences such as sand pagoda building and Buddha image bathing. The area also includes spaces designed for both elderly visitors and children, along with more than 100 stalls offering Thai food and locally made products.
Live music performances take place on the main stage from 17:00 to 22:00, featuring a range of Thai artists including Fool Step, Zani, Zeal, Kratae, Asia7, The Mousses, Ink Waruntorn, Palmy, Bodyslam and Tilly Birds, among others.
In parallel, the water play zone and EDM stage host DJ performances from 16:00 to 22:00, with artists such as 22Bullets, Joy Lila and Roxy June.
Each evening concludes with a drone light display involving more than 1,200 drones.
Safety arrangements have been coordinated with multiple public agencies, including the Tourist Police Bureau, supported by event partners. Measures include traffic management, crowd guidance, visitor assistance points and continuous on-site support.
The festival takes place from 11 to 15 April at Benchakitti Park. Entry is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, with access via the BTS Asok and MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre stations, both within walking distance.