In most parts of the Kingdom, Songkran takes place on April 13-15. In certain areas, however, that's too soon for the fun to be over.
- Phra Pradaeng of Samut Prakan province is one such place. From tomorrow until April 21, apart from the water war, the Mon community on the west side of the Chao Phraya (Phra Pradaeng covers both sides of the river) will celebrate their version of Songkran with numerous cultural activities, games and performances with the district office and the Phlaeng Fai Fa Fort Park, which will be beautifully illuminated at night, as the main venues.
Among the highlights are the contests to select this year's Nang Songkran Phra Pradaeng (female) and Nhum Loi Chai (male) on April 19 and the spectacular Songkran parade along the city's main streets on April 21. Mon delicacies, including the chewy dessert called kalamae, will be available every day.
For more information, call Phra Pa Daeng district office on 02-464-3450.
- Phra Pradaeng is not the only place where the festival is observed later than the rest of Thailand, in many parts of Chon Buri and Rayong provinces on the east coast, the remainder of this week is still going to be very wet and wild.
Called Wan Lai, the water festival of the East is being held at many locations. In Chon Buri, the fun continues in Pattaya (now until April 21), Koh Lan (today) and Na Klua (today). In Rayong, the venues are as follow Nilhom Phatthana (today), Huai Pong (April 19), Map Ta Phut (April 19-21), Ban Khai (April 21), and Pak Nam Rayong (April 29).
For details, call the Pattaya office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand which oversees tourism promotion in the provinces on 038-427-667.
If you have news or events to share, email pongpetm@bangkokpost.co.th.
