Songkran (Thai New Year Water Festival): days & times

Thailand's New Year, 13-15 April every year, turns Samui into a three-day island-wide water fight centred on Chaweng Beach Road, with temple ceremonies behind the party. Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, fixed on 13-15 April regardless of weekday. On Samui it combines genuine tradition - morning merit-making, bathing Buddha images, and pouring water on elders' hands at temples such as Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai - with the famous public water fights. Chaweng Beach Road is the main battle zone from late morning to evening; Lamai, Nathon and Fisherman's Village have lighter celebrations. Pickup trucks with water tanks patrol the streets and everyone is a target. It is free to join. In 2026 Samui's festivities ran roughly 10-15 April with the main day on 13 April; the same fixed dates apply in 2027. Safety notes: Songkran week has Thailand's worst road accident statistics (scooters especially), ATMs can run low, and anything not waterproof will get soaked. When: 13-15 April every year (fixed dates). 2026: Mon 13 - Wed 15 April; 2027: 13-15 April. Island celebrations often start a few days early (from ~10 April in Chaweng). • Waterproof pouch for phone and cash is essential; leave your passport at the hotel • Avoid riding scooters during Songkran week - wet roads plus peak accidents • Do not splash monks, the elderly, or people who clearly opt out • Book accommodation weeks ahead; songthaews are hard to flag mid-afternoon