THE Royal Thai Consulate in Penang will host two events in conjunction with the Songkran Festival, marking Thailand’s traditional New Year.
The celebrations will take place at Hin Bus Depot on April 18, and at Penang Hill on April 19, the latter in collaboration with the Penang Hill Corporation.
At Hin Bus Depot, members of the public are invited to experience a lively Thai-style celebration from 10am to 6pm. Activities include traditional water splashing, cultural performances, Muay Thai demonstrations, Thai massage, and a variety of Thai cuisine offered at more than 20 stalls from 10am to 6pm.
Visitors can also take part in a hands-on cultural activity, where Thai artists will demonstrate and guide participants in making “Tung” — traditional hanging flags from Northern Thailand — which they may bring home as souvenirs.
Meanwhile, Penang Hill will host a vibrant cultural showcase at the Angsana Stage (Upper Station), beginning at 10am. The programme will feature performances such as the Lanna Floral Offering Dance (Fon Khan Dok), Lanna Umbrella Dance (Fon Ti), Ta Khon Courtship Dance (featuring masked folk characters and Tai maidens), and the Rabbit Dance.
A second performance session at 2pm will include the Joyful Long Drum Dance (Klong Yao Parade), Tarian Kipas (Malay fan dance), and Dikir Hulu (southern Malay choral singing).
While Songkran Festival is officially observed in Thailand from April 13 to April 15, some Buddhist temples in Penang will also hold their own celebrations over the weekend.
Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Songkran reflects Thailand’s deep-rooted values of family, respect and spiritual renewal. It is also a time for reunions, as family members come together to honour tradition and welcome a fresh start.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix courtesy of the Royal Thai Consulate in Penang