The Golden Buddha presides over the monk-led water-pouring ceremony at the authentic Thai Songkran Festival, kicking off on April 22

By Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported

Currently during the Thai New Year period, Songkran Festival events are being held across the country. Taoyuan County Government will host the “2012 Authentic Thai Songkran Festival” this Sunday (the 22nd) at the Taoyuan County Stadium, where there will be performances of exotic musical pieces, traditional blessing and Buddha-bathing ceremonies, as well as opportunities to sample Thai cuisine, watch sepak takraw competitions, and enjoy the Miss Songkran pageant. Fans of Thai culture will be able to experience an authentic traditional Thai New Year celebration right here in Taiwan.

The Songkran Festival in Taoyuan County has entered its 14th year and has become an annual highlight eagerly anticipated by the local Thai community. In addition to maintaining the traditional water-splashing customs of the Thai New Year, this year’s event also includes a monk-led alms-begging and Buddha-bathing ceremony, and a golden Buddha presiding over blessings, infusing the joyful festivities with a sense of solemnity and sacredness through traditional Thai religious rituals. Additionally, the day will feature Thai food tastings, sepak takraw competitions, the Miss Songkran pageant, and a performance by the comedy group “Free Style,” who will present exotic songs such as “Welcome” and “Pauline’s Love Story.”

Taiwan is home to a large number of foreign migrant workers, bringing with them traditional festivals from their respective countries, offering locals the chance to experience diverse cultures. Among these, Thailand’s Songkran Festival is the most well-known. Also called the Songkran Festival, it holds a significance for Thais similar to that of Lunar New Year for Taiwanese. Thais studying or working abroad often return home during Songkran to reunite with their families, making it the most joyous traditional festival of the year in Thailand.

●  Read more: Ancient City Water Battle Brings Luck – Thai Songkran Festival Kicks Off on April 6

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