The Governor of Bangkok organized a merit-making ceremony offering alms to 69 monks along with a water blessing for elders to bring auspiciousness for the Great Songkran Festival 2026.
On 13 April 2026 at 7:00 AM at Lan Khon Mueang, Bangkok City Hall (Sao Chingcha), Phra Nakhon district, Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, presided over the merit-making ceremony offering alms to 69 monks for auspiciousness in celebration of Bangkok's Great Songkran Festival 2026. Mr. Narong Ruangsri, Bangkok Permanent Secretary, together with Bangkok executives and staff, attended the ceremony.
At 8:00 AM, Governor Chadchart presided over the water blessing ceremony for elders to encourage Thai people to express gratitude and respect toward their parents and elders, fostering love and mutual understanding.
Songkran falls annually on 13 April. The word “Songkran” comes from Sanskrit meaning 'movement,' referring to the sun's transition into Aries, marking the solar New Year. The festival period runs from 13 to 15 April, with 13 April recognized as the Great Songkran day.
Historically, Songkran marked the Thai New Year, occurring after the harvest season. Ancient people used this time to rest and engage in communal activities. Today, it is an important festival symbolized by water as a sign of refreshment and new beginnings, including bathing monks, blessing elders, and returning home to family, reflecting gratitude, warmth, and the continuation of Thai cultural traditions during the Thai New Year.
