Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 opens in Bangkok | News
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially opened the 2026 Maha Songkran World Water Festival at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. The five-day event runs until April 15 and brings together cultural heritage, live entertainment and water celebrations in one of Thailand’s largest Songkran gatherings.
The opening ceremony on April 11 was attended by Mr Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, together with senior representatives from the public and private sectors.
Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 is a celebration designed for everyone – across generations, regions and the world. It brings together the very best of Thai culture and contemporary festivities, reinforcing Songkran’s status as a truly global festival. With UNESCO’s recognition of Songkran in Thailand as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, we are proud to be able to offer an experience that is deeply rooted in tradition and boldly modern, further establishing Thailand as a world-class festival destination.”
On opening night, the Maha Songkran World Event parade will take place at 6:30 PM. on the main stage, with this year’s Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdevi, played by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.
The “Songkran 5 Regions” zone (11am to 10pm daily) showcases Thailand’s regional diversity through traditional performances, showcases of local products, activities and temple fair experiences, including sand pagodas building and Buddha statue bathing. Special areas for the elderly and children ensure accessibility for all ages, with more than 100 stalls selling Thai food and products.
Leading Thai artists will perform on the main stage (from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM), including Fool Step, Zani, Zeal, Kratae, Asia7, The Mousses, Lham Somphol, Ink Waruntorn, Monica, Playground, Palmy, Maiyarap, Clockwork Motionless, 4EVE, Bodyslam, Taitosmith, MEYOU, Getsunova, Tilly Birds and Joey Boy, in addition to cultural and contemporary showcases.
Meanwhile, DJs will rock the water play zone and EDM stage (from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM) with performances from 4 TEN, Nuttrix, Joy Lila, Jay Schema, Gail Werner, Spacemonkey, 22Bullets, Patcha, Hanky, Dome, Hugo, Brynna, Roxy June, Max, Xillix and Notxerius.
Each evening ends with a drone light show with more than 1,200 drones.
Safety and security are top priorities, supported by seamless teamwork between government agencies, including the Tourist Police Station, and event partners to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all. Visitors benefit from enhanced on-site support, smart traffic flow, dedicated public guidance, helpful visitor centers and 24-hour assistance throughout the site.
Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 will take place from April 11 to 15 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, with easy access from BTS Asok station and MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center station, both within walking distance of the park.
For more information, contact the TAT Call Center at 1672 Travel Buddy, or follow the Amazing Thailand and Thailand Festival Facebook pages.
