Bring out the water guns, hoses, and buckets—Songkran is almost here! As the most exciting and refreshing festival in Thailand, Songkran marks the Thai New Year with a splash, symbolizing a fresh start and washing away the past year’s misfortunes.
Celebrated from April 13–15, Songkran is a time for family, temple visits, and of course, the famous water fights that take over the streets. While Phuket’s Songkran celebrations are legendary, you don’t have to go far to enjoy the holiday—here are some fun DIY Songkran activities that kids can enjoy right at home!
Across Thailand, Songkran is celebrated with vibrant festivities, including lively parades, traditional beauty pageants featuring contestants in elegant Thai attire, cultural performances, and exciting games. Streets come alive with food vendors, flag ceremonies, and energetic dance shows, while boat races add to the thrill of the holiday. Families and friends gather for friendly tug-of-war matches, and beautifully crafted sand stupas decorate temple grounds and beaches. With endless water-themed activities, Songkran offers a fun-filled experience for kids and adults alike!
Build Sand Stupas at the Beach or Home
In traditional Thai culture, families take sand to local temples to build small stupas (sand pagodas) as an offering. You can recreate this meaningful tradition with your kids at one of Phuket’s beautiful beaches—Patong, Kata, or Nai Harn—or simply in your backyard sandbox. Decorate your sand stupa with colourful flags, flowers, or incense for a fun and cultural hands-on experience.
Easy to Make Decorations by Twinkl
Explore their vibrant Songkran 2025 resources for a deep dive into the cultural traditions and celebrations of the Thai New Year. Click for download Songkran 2025 Resources
Water Gun Painting
Why just shoot water when you can create art with it? Fill small water guns or spray bottles with a mix of water and tempura paint (50/50 ratio). Set up a large sheet of construction paper or a canvas outdoors, and let the kids create their own splashy masterpiece! Use painter’s tape to design stars, hearts, or words, and watch as the final artwork comes to life once dry.
DIY Water Rockets
Turn plastic bottles into exciting water-powered rockets! This activity combines fun with learning, making it perfect for older kids and teens. All you need are:
- Plastic bottles
- Cardboard for fins
- Paint for decoration
- A water pump (or high-pressure water source)
Launch your DIY rocket by filling the bottle partially with water, sealing it with a cork, and using a pump to create pressure. Then watch as it blasts into the sky!
Foam Party
Songkran isn’t just about water—foam parties are a huge hit too! Create your own foamy fun by filling a kiddie pool with soap bubbles or using a foam machine. Add a slip mat, and you’ve got your very own backyard water park!
Water Balloon Games
No Songkran celebration is complete without water balloons! Available at most toy stores in Phuket, water balloons are a great way to stay cool and have fun. Here are some game ideas:
- Water Balloon Tag: Whoever gets hit with a balloon is “it!”
- Relay Races: Pass a water balloon without breaking it.
- Target Throwing: Set up targets (like buckets) and aim for a splashy hit.
Celebrate Songkran Safely in Phuket
Whether you join the big street celebrations in Patong, visit a temple for a traditional blessing, or enjoy these DIY activities at home, Songkran in Phuket is always a magical experience. Remember to stay hydrated, use waterproof phone cases, and keep young children safe in the water.
Wishing you and your family a happy, fun, and safe Songkran!
