Five days of celebrations of culture, music and water at Benchakitti Park reinforce UNESCO-recognized Songkran as a leading global festival
BANGKOK, April 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially opened the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. The five-day event, which runs until April 15, brings together cultural heritage, performances and aquatic celebrations in one of the largest Songkran gatherings in Thailand.
The opening ceremony on April 11 was attended by Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside senior representatives from the public and private sectors.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the TAT, said: “The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 is a celebration designed for everyone – across generations, regions and the world. It brings together the best of Thai culture and contemporary festivities, reinforcing Songkran’s position as a truly global festival.
The opening night includes the Maha Songkran Global Event Parade at 6:30 p.m. on the main stage, highlighting this year’s Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdeviperformed by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.
The “Songkran 5 Regions” zone (11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily) showcases Thailand’s regional diversity through traditional performances, local product showcases, temple fair activities and experiences including sand pagoda building and Buddha image bathing. Dedicated areas for seniors and children ensure accessibility for all ages, with more than 100 stalls offering Thai food and products.
Top Thai artists performing on the Main Stage (5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) including Fool Step, Zani, Zeal, Kratae, Asia7, The Mousses, Lham Somhol, Ink Waruntorn, Monica, Playground, Palmy, Maiyarap, Clockwork Motionless, 4EVE, Bodyslam, Taitosmith, MEYOU, Getsunova, Tilly Birds and Joey Boy, as well as cultural showcases and contemporary.
Meanwhile, DJs will rock the water play zone and EDM stage (4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) 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 featuring more than 1,200 drones.
Safety and security are top priorities, supported by seamless teamwork between public agencies, including the Tourist Police Bureau, and event partners, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Attendees benefit from enhanced on-site support, intelligent circulation, dedicated crowd guidance, helpful visitor centers and 24-hour support throughout the venue.
The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 will take place from April 11 to 15 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Entrance is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, with convenient access from Asok BTS Station and Queen Sirikit National Convention Center MRT Station, both located within walking distance of the park.
For more information, contact the TAT call center on 1672 Travel Buddy, or follow the Amazing Thailand And Thailand Festival Facebook pages.
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SOURCE Tourism Authority of Thailand
