Journey back in time as local residents, many of whom will be dressed in traditional Thai costumes, celebrate the Songkran Thai New Year, the traditional Thai way. Popular Songkran highlights include a procession of floral carts, Miss Songkran beauty contest, the building of sand stupas at Wat Trapang Thong temple and lots of water-splashing to 'beat the heat' during the kingdom’s hottest season in the year.

Activities
April 7-8, 2009
Ban Haat Sieow Buddhist Ordination Procession
Thirty novices will be ordained in a time-honoured ancient ritual. They will ride on elephant back as a procession proceeds along the street to Haat Sieow temple.

	Building sand stupas
	Buddha images bathing ritual Scented lustral water is sprinkled or poured on sacred Buddha images
	Buddhist merit-making – the presentation of rice and dry foodstuff to Buddhist monks and temples as merit-making offerings
	Sukhothai-style Songkran procession featuring traditional carts
	Thai cultural showcase
	Rot nam dam hua ceremony Scented lustral water is poured on the hands of elders and individuals held in high esteem in a gesture of respect.
	Make a pilgrimage to nine sacred sites to pay respect to revered Buddha images and spiritual teachers King Ramkhamhaeng The Great Memorial, Wat Si Chum and Wat Trapang Tong within the Sukhothai Historical Park, Buddha relics at the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, Phra Mae Ya shrine and Luang Phor To at Wat Thai Chumphon in the Sukhothai provincial centre, Luang Phor Song Pi Nong at Wat Nong Wong in the district of Amphoe Sri-samrong, Luang Phor Sila at Wat Thung Saliam in the district of Amphoe Tung Saliam, Phra Buddha Mongkon Pornchaimannee at Wat Sirikhetsiri in the district of Amphoe Sisatchanalai

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Sukhothai Office
Tel: +66 (0) 5561 1196
Fax: +66 (0) 5561 1196
E-mail: tatsukho@tat.or.th