As summer and the Easter holidays approach, it's the perfect time to plan a fun and memorable escapade with your family and kids. If you're considering a trip to Thailand, April is an exciting time to be in Bangkok. The Songkran Festival, which celebrates the Thai New Year, takes place in April and is one of the best ways to experience the rich Thai culture in all its glory.

What Is Songkran Day?

 

You may have heard about this epic festival or wondered what Songkran Day is. Songkran Day is Thailand's traditional New Year festival, celebrated annually from April 13 to 15. Although globally famed for its super-fun and massive country-wide water fights, its origins are more deeply rooted in Thai culture and Buddhist traditions. The word originates from Sanskrit, meaning "to move" or "to change," signifying the sun's transition into a new zodiac sign. Traditionally, it is considered a time to make merit at the temples, clean homes to start the New Year fresh, and pay respect to the elders. 

The water fights originated from the concept of people throwing water at each other as a symbol of washing away bad luck and welcoming the new year. Cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket host huge celebrations with traditional performances, parades, and water fights.

In Bangkok, some landmark areas are famous for their wild street parties, large-scale water fights, loud music, and dancing. However, if you are on a family holiday, you might be looking for Songkran water fights in Bangkok that are fit for the kids, too. There are plenty of family-friendly neighbourhoods where both parents and children can have a great time. Check out our list of the six best Songkran spots for families in Bangkok:

 

1. Khao San Road – For Families With Older Kids

Khao San Road is infamous for its high-energy Songkran celebrations, where locals and tourists both flock here, ready to douse each other from head to toe. If you have older children or teenagers who would enjoy a more fast-paced, fun environment, this is a great place to start. Khaosan’s main party street can get very crowded and might feel overwhelming for the kids as first-timers, so it’s best to either go earlier in the day when things are just getting started or experience water fights at the adjacent streets nearby, such as Ram Buttri or Dinso road.

 

2. Siam Square – Organised Water Fun With Entertainment

If high-energy celebrations are not your cup of tea, Siam Square is one of the best spots for Songkran water fights in Bangkok for kids. The celebrations here are more organised with designated water play zones, making it a safe and exciting spot for families with younger children. You can enjoy live performances, music, and games ongoing throughout the day so that nobody misses out on the fun without being exposed to the customary Songkran craziness. There are shopping malls nearby that offer an instant sanctuary in case you want to take a break, or the kids get hungry after all the water play.

 

3. Sanam Luang – Cultural Songkran Near The Grand Palace

If your family is more intrigued by the cultural aspect of Songkran, Sanam Luang is the perfect place to experience the traditional celebrations. Located near the Grand Palace, the grounds are the home for cultural events like merit-making, Buddha statue bathing, and traditional performances. It’s also an excellent opportunity to teach the kids the meaning of Songkran beyond water fights. The atmosphere is more relaxed and family-oriented, making it one of the best spots in Bangkok for a family-friendly Songkran celebration.

 

4. CentralWorld Plaza – Large-Scale Water Play Zones

Central World is located in one of Bangkok’s top shopping districts, and its plaza and the streets around it transform into one of the biggest Songkran party arenas in the city with huge water playground zones, live music, and lots of family-friendly activities. Families with kids can participate in water fights with the added comfort of having easy access to the shopping and dining options inside the mall. Central World is also easily accessible via BTS Skytrain, making it easier for larger families to commute. This combination of fun and convenience makes this spot an ideal choice for families who want to enjoy Songkran without venturing too far from modern comforts.

 

5. Asiatique The Riverfront – Songkran By The Riverside

It’s always a good time by the river in Bangkok! A must-add to your list of the best Songkran spots in Bangkok for families - Asiatique offers a more relaxed take on Songkran with beautiful views along the Chao Phraya River. The outdoor shopping and entertainment complex celebrates Songkran with water play areas, live concerts, and cultural performances. Families who prefer a festive yet less intense experience will appreciate the mix of fun activities and opportunities to unwind. Plus, with plenty of restaurants and cafés around, it’s easy to take a break and enjoy a meal together.

 

6. Dream World – A Full Day of Family Fun

Looking for a full day of excitement in one spot? Dream World would be an excellent choice. One of the most popular amusement parks in Bangkok, they host Songkran-themed activities along their usual rides and attractions. Children can play and have fun at the designated water play zones and then head out for the roller coasters. Parents can relax or even join in on the fun with them. It’s a great mix of festival fun and classic theme park thrills.

 

Celebrate Songkran With Centara Hotels

When you are holidaying with family, that too, during one of the highest peak seasons in Thailand, it’s important to ensure you have a comfortable base to come back to. To make the most of your Songkran holiday, choose Centara Hotels & Resorts offering a range of family-friendly stays across Bangkok, catering to different budgets while providing excellent service, comfortable rooms, and fantastic facilities. If you need to be right in the heart of the action or want a more relaxed hotel stay with convenient access to Songkran festivities, there's a Centara Hotel that’s right for you. Check out their hotels near Khaosan, Pratunam, Chatuchak Market, and Ladprao in Bangkok for easy access to Songkran festivities throughout the city.

 

Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Located right next to Central World Plaza, this hotel near Pratunam in Bangkok is perfect if you want to be right in the heart of the Songkran action. After a full day of fun, families can retire to their spacious and stylish rooms decked with all modern amenities, savour delectable dining options, or unwind at the rooftop bar with a panoramic view of Bangkok.

 

Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok

For families that want the festival excitement but also want to soak in some greenery nearby, this hotel near Chatuchak Market and Ladprao BTS station is the perfect fit. It boasts airy rooms, great on-site restaurants, and a refreshing pool to unwind after a day of water fights. Additionally, it is thoughtfully designed to give you a resort feel right in the middle of Bangkok's urban jungle.

 

Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon

If you’re looking to experience the cultural side of Songkran, this centrally located hotel near Khao San in the historic Phra Nakhon district is an excellent choice. Close to Sanam Luang and the Grand Palace, families can enjoy traditional celebrations while staying in a stylish and comfortable environment.

 

Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel Bangkok

This modern and affordable hotel is near Pratunam Market and a short ride away from key Songkran locations like Siam Square and CentralWorld. Families who want convenience, comfort, and easy access to both shopping and festival activities will find this an ideal place to stay.

 

Ready To Plan A Family-Friendly Songkran?

If you haven’t experienced Songkran before, Bangkok is a fantastic place to start with family. With a diverse range of celebrations around the city - be it high-energy water fights or peaceful traditional Songkran rituals - it’s easy to make your pick. And for when you need a place to rest, there’s a Centara Hotel for you ensuring a comfortable holiday for your family. 

Contact reservations today to book your ultimate Songkran adventure in Bangkok with Centara Hotels & Resorts.