What is Songkran?
Songkran, also known as the Thai New Year, is a festive season when locals and tourists alike take the streets with buckets of water and water guns to splash one another. It’s famous for being the world’s largest water fight and is often accompanied by lively music and parties. However, more than all the festivities, Songkran marks the New Year on the Buddhist and Hindu solar calendar.
Observed between 12 and 19 April each year, the word “songkran” is derived from the Sanskrit language and translated to “astrological passage.” Traditionally, younger celebrants gently pour water on Buddhist statues and elder family members to signify purification, transformation, and change. This is also a time when extended families reunite with traditional food and delicacies as they celebrate the festivities together.
Best Places to Celebrate Songkran in Pattaya
Most Songkran activities take place on Beach Road and Walking Street in Pattaya, so those travelling to this coastal city for Songkran gravitate toward hotels near these two areas.
For Songkran 2026, Beach Road in Pattaya is anticipated to become one of the largest party venues with water fights and stages for musical and dance performances. The entire stretch from Dolphin Roundabout to Walking Street will transform into one massive party. Thousands of people take part in the water fights, so be prepared to get soaked the moment you step outside. The action intensifies the closer you get to Walking Street.
After a full day of splashing water, Walking Street becomes the go-to place for evening celebrations. Revellers can dance the night away at a club or relax with a drink by the waterfront; the area is one big street party offering unique ways to enjoy Songkran in Pattaya this 2026.
Coinciding with the Songkran Festival is Pattaya City’s annual Wan Lai Naklua festival at Lan Pho Naklua Public Park and Wat Chai Mongkhon in South Pattaya. The event will feature religious Buddhist ceremonies and Thai cultural performances and activities.
As the streets are often packed with Songkran celebrations, staying nearby hotels, like Holiday Inn Pattaya, allows you to walk to the streets to take part in the water fight. At the same time, eateries and other restaurants, including our poolside bars, offer the perfect spots to chill out.
Where to Stay in Pattaya for Songkran
With its beachfront location along Beach Road, opposite the famous Pattaya Beach, Holiday Inn Pattaya offers special packages catering to those joining in the festivities.
Holiday Inn Pattaya has a convenient private entrance on Pattaya Second Road, which avoids the crowds on Beach Road. Several vantage points, including the Bay Tower swimming pool and any sea view room with a private balcony, offer views of all the action.
Holiday Inn Pattaya should be your destination for the Songkran holidays. It will provide convenient access to the Songkran experience and excellent facilities, including infinity swimming pools, a spa, a fitness centre, and world-class dining options serving local and international dishes and signature drinks. Our spacious, contemporary-styled accommodation offer the comfort and amenities you need for a memorable stay.
Holiday Inn Pattaya is the place to be for those experiencing Songkran for the first time, as it is close to the Songkran spots in Pattaya. So, plan your trip today.
