Break out your super soakers, Songkran water play has been given the green light by Phuket Town officials. The Phuket News reports that the President of Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation says water fights can go ahead on the streets of the Old Town on April 14.
But before you dust off your old plastic water soakers, there’s a small catch.
“The activities also include and maintain Songkran traditions, such as pouring water on elders’ hands and the bathing of Buddha images. People are also encouraged to dress in traditional costumes for the day. The event will also include performances by local bands and famous bands from Bangkok.”
Rewat Areerob adds that the alcohol-free event will be held on Dibuk Road, in front of the Limelight Shopping Mall and, for the first time in 3 years, people can bring their water guns and ice buckets.
A designated area will be created for water play, according to Rewat. The zone will be alcohol and drug-free, in a bid to reduce accidents during the Thai New Year festival. It’s understood the water play area will be available between 5pm and 10pm.
“The Songkran No Al event had previously been held for 9 consecutive years. It is the only Songkran festival in Phuket that has both Thai tourists and foreigners as participants, mostly aged 15-35. No fewer than 25,000 people are expected to join the event.”
With water play being given the green light in Phuket Town, it’s now likely to be approved in other parts of the island, with officials expected to create more dedicated water play zones in their jurisdictions.
SOURCE: The Phuket News
