Tourists invited to experience Mon traditional Songkran festival in Phra Pradaeng

Travellers who missed the main Songkran festivities earlier this month will have a second chance to enjoy Thailand’s iconic water-splashing celebration. The Mon Traditional Songkran Festival will take place in Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan, from Friday to Sunday.

While the nationwide Songkran Festival typically runs from April 13–15, Phra Pradaeng’s unique celebration, known as Wan Lai Songkran Phra Pradaeng – or the Water Flowing Days of Songkran – is held later in accordance with local customs preserved by the ethnic Mon community.

This vibrant annual event reflects the deep-rooted traditions of the Mon descendants residing in Samut Prakan. Festival highlights include locals donning traditional Mon attire, performing classical dances, and showcasing cultural performances. Families also gather to make merit for their ancestors, reinforcing the spirit of unity and remembrance.

Visitors can participate in a sacred water-pouring ritual over Buddha images at Wat Protket Chettharam, one of the key spiritual ceremonies of the festival.

One of the main attractions is a colourful parade of floral floats, featuring the Songkran Queen adorned in traditional costume. After sunset, Phlaeng Faifa Fortress Historical Park transforms with beautiful light installations, offering a magical nighttime experience for all ages.

Getting There: Tourists can conveniently reach Phra Pradaeng by ferry boat from the following piers:

• Wat Bang Na Nok Pier on Sanphawut Road
• Klong Toey Pier
• Petra Pier

Traffic Advisory: To accommodate the celebrations, the following roads will be closed from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM:

• Khuen Khan Road
• Sri Khuen Khan Road
• Phetchahueng Road (from Phetchahueng Intersection to Khlong Lat Pho Bridge)
• Song Tham Road
• Phra Ratviriyaphon Road (from Khuen Khan Intersection to Wat Ruak)
• Soi Suksawat 39 (from Wat Kae to Phraya Phayap Piriyakit Intersection)

Whether you're a returning visitor or experiencing Songkran for the first time, Phra Pradaeng’s Mon Traditional Songkran offers a culturally rich and unforgettable celebration that blends ancient customs with joyful festivity.