The Cabinet on 23 March 2021 acknowledged the Ministry of Culture’s proposal on guidance for the celebration of Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, as a “new normal” festival this year.
The Cabinet was told that Songkran under the concept of a new normal festival involves campaigns for the organizing of various activities, with an emphasis on sustaining the inheritance of Thai culture, as well as promoting tourism and healthcare.
Activities that include mass gatherings and close contact will not be allowed this year in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 infection.
Often referred to as the “Water Festival” among foreigners, Songkran is Thailand’s merriest festival and is widely observed across the nation. The highlight of the festival is between 13 and 15 April.
In the campaigns for the Songkran festival this year, the public has been urged to strictly observe traffic regulations in driving for road safety. Alcohol consumption should be avoided in public places.
The organizing of the Songkran festival should be organized in open-air areas, with good ventilation accessible to sunshine and a limited number of participants.
A water-pouring ceremony in celebration of Songkran should maintain social distancing, and participants should wear hygienic masks. Eating food or drinking beverages together for a long time should also be avoided.
All provinces have been asked to organize appropriate religious and cultural activities, in line with measures set by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration.
Source: PR Thai Government