HUA HIN, THAILAND – Holiday crowds packed the resort town over the Songkran weekend for lively but orderly water celebrations aimed at boosting tourism.
Heavy turnout for Songkran weekend
Large Songkran crowds filled Hua Hin over the weekend, with many foreign visitors joining local residents in the streets. The mood was described as lively as water play and events took place at several locations at the same time.
High temperatures and the desire for relaxation during the holidays reportedly contributed to the strong turnout. As a result, a consistently festive atmosphere spread across much of the city.
Official opening on 12 April
On 12 April, Prachuap-Khiri-Khan Governor Sitthichai Sawat Saen opened the “Hua Hin Songkran Fest 2026” on Damnoen Kasem Road in front of Phon King Phet Park. Officials, private-sector representatives and numerous Thai and international tourists attended the ceremony.
The opening marked the start of the central event area, described as the main attraction for visitors. The programme was set for two days, concentrating water and cultural activities in one location.
Traditional games as cultural opening
Before the official launch, the Hua Hin Cultural Learning Centre staged demonstrations of traditional Thai games. The offer drew interest from visitors and provided insight into local customs.
A selection of folk games was presented and was reportedly well received. This gave the festival a clear cultural dimension alongside the water-based fun.
Water zone with tunnel, foam and children’s attractions
In the main area, the water-play zone proved to be a central attraction, especially a large water tunnel covering more than 1,000 square metres. It became the focal point for many visitors.
Children joined foam parties and used inflatable water attractions. Officials maintained a visible presence to monitor safety throughout the event.
‘Hologram’ theme blends modern effects and tradition
Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul said the festival was held under the motto “Hologram”, combining modern light, colour and sound effects with traditional elements.
“The festival runs under the theme ‘Hologram’ and combines modern light, colour and sound effects with traditional elements. The aim is to support tourism while preserving aspects of Thai cultural heritage.”
said Nopporn Wutthikul, mayor.
The event ran from 12 to 13 April, operating from midday until midnight. It was therefore aimed at both day visitors and evening crowds filling the city centre.
Ceremonies on 13 April: Buddha bathing and respect rituals
For 13 April, ceremonies were planned around the bathing of the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha statue and other Buddha figures representing the days of the week. Traditional water-pouring rituals as a sign of respect for elders were also scheduled.
In addition, a procession of Luang Pho Nak from Wat Hua Hin was planned, during which monks were to sprinkle holy water as part of blessing ceremonies. These programme points represented the religious and cultural core of the Songkran festival.
Major parade and celebrations across the city
A large Songkran parade with more than seven processions was set to draw attention along the route. Organisers expected strong public interest.
At the same time, celebrations spread across the city, including in Soi Bintabaht, around the Mahachanak intersection, in Hua Hin Soi 51 and on Naeb Kehardt Road. In the evenings, large crowds formed as many places set up water stations, played music and hosted smaller performances.
Safety, traffic and economic impact
The overall atmosphere was reported as lively but orderly, while authorities continued to monitor safety and traffic conditions. The visible presence of officials was described as part of the concept for supervising the event.
Local businesses reported increased activity, benefiting hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. The festival was expected to give the local economy a short-term boost as Hua Hin continued to attract both domestic and international holidaymakers.