Types of People on Songkran

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It's that time of the year again, where people are ready with their water guns and water containers to attack. It is the biggest water festival at the hottest time of the year!

Songkran is the Thai New Year holiday (from 12th - 16th April). On this occasion, you will see families perform merit-making ceremonies and the young people pay respect to their elders by sprinkling scented water on their hands. It is the best time of the year for locals and for the foreigners (like us!).

This grand festival also strengthens the unity of the Thai citizens, as I guarantee you that people on the streets will get you soaked. While I was in Pattaya on a Songkran spree, I observed four types of people there:

 1. The chalked-up ones

 

Image from uproxx.com/

These are the people that have had their faces completely covered in chalk, so there would be no space for others to do so. They also are the first ones to be prepared with chalk pellets and smear it on revelers.

2. The ones that are "Feelin' festive"

Weeks before Songkran, these enthusiastic ones would be seen shopping for floral shirts and dresses, chalks and water guns/containers. They make sure that they have to dress accordingly for the celebration (and for the 'gram). Just when you thought you could escape without getting wet, they pour out their supplies of icy cold water. It feels like the greatest luxury on Earth in the summers. They grab the opportunity to break the dry spell of every innocent passer!

Image from nationmultimedia.com/

3. The water-me-not bunch

Image from thaifestivalblogs.com/

AKA the "anti-Songkran" people. They are the ones that would come up with a long list of excuses and keep refusing to go outside. They would prefer to sit in a corner at home and stay dry, however the "feelin' festive" ones forcefully drag them along and pour massive amount of water on them!

4. The tipsy lot

Any form of alcoholic beverage will be savored to the fullest by them. They are one of the most energetic ones and would sing and dance to their heart's content, along with the "feelin' festive" ones. You would not want to miss observing them, as their actions could be pretty hilarious!