Songkran Festival

Questions and Answers

What is one traditional activity that families participate in during Songkran?

Setting off fireworks to celebrate

Visiting theme parks for entertainment

Hosting barbecues and picnics outdoors

Waking up early to visit Buddhist temples (correct)

What do younger people do to show respect during Songkran?

Dance in the streets to celebrate

Engage in cooking traditional meals

Give gifts to friends and family

Pour water on the hands of elderly relatives (correct)

Which item do temple visitors bring to replenish what has been carried away throughout the year?

Sand for the stupas (correct)

Flowers for decoration

Water jars for purification

Buddha statues for offerings

What represents purification and good fortune during Songkran?

<p>Sprinkling clean or scented water over Buddha statues</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is April considered a suitable time for celebrating Songkran in Thailand?

<p>It is one of the hottest months of the year.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of Songkran Festival

Songkran marks the Thai New Year and is celebrated in mid-April, starting on the 13th.
The festival typically lasts for three days but can start early or extend in some cities.
Songkran derives from an ancient Sanskrit term meaning “passage of the sun,” symbolizing a fresh start.

Significance of Water in Songkran

Water symbolizes purification, washing away the previous year while welcoming the new.
Initial festivities include spring cleaning and a water pouring ceremony over Buddha statues, representing renewal and good fortune.
Elders are paid respect with scented water poured over their hands and feet for blessings.

Traditions and Practices

Celebration involves family reunions, with members returning home for the holiday to join in cleaning and temple visits.
Offerings of food are made at Buddhist temples, accompanied by listening to monk teachings.
A unique custom involves bringing sand to temples to replenish what has been walked away during the year, which is then used to decorate stupas.

Modern Celebrations and Fun

The festival has evolved to include playful water fights, renowned for loud music, street parties, and friendly splashing.
Super soakers, buckets, and other containers become the tools of joy during the water fights, adding a festive atmosphere.
April's high temperatures contribute to the fun, making water fights a refreshing highlight of the celebrations.

Description

Explore the exciting traditions of Songkran, the Thai New Year festival. This quiz covers the history, customs, and vibrant celebrations, including the famous water fights that signify a fresh start. Learn how this three-day event brings people together in joyous festivities!