Family-Friendly Activities During Songkran Festival in Singapore

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Songkran Festival without leaving Singapore, you’re in for a treat. While traditionally celebrated in Thailand as the Thai New Year, Songkran has become a joyful water festival that brings people together with laughter, cultural appreciation, and plenty of splashing fun.

In Singapore, Songkran-inspired celebrations are growing in popularity, offering a variety of family-friendly activities that blend cultural education with engaging water-themed entertainment. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking for an exciting holiday activity for the kids, there’s something for everyone.

Understanding the Significance of Songkran

Before diving into the activities, it’s important to understand what Songkran is all about.

Songkran is a traditional Thai festival that marks the beginning of the new solar year. Traditionally, it involves:

• Cleansing rituals using water to symbolize washing away bad luck

• Paying respect to elders and visiting temples

• Spending time with family and participating in community gatherings

Over the years, Songkran has also become famous for its vibrant water fights, where people of all ages splash water at one another in the spirit of joy, renewal, and good fortune.

In Singapore, the celebration has taken a more organized and family-centric form, with safe, supervised, and cultural-themed events being the norm.

Popular Family-Friendly Songkran Activities in Singapore

Here are some of the best activities and venues where families can enjoy the spirit of Songkran in a safe and fun environment.

1. Dedicated Water Play Zones for Children

Water play is the heart of any Songkran celebration. In Singapore, many family attractions and community centres create designated splash zones to ensure kids can join in the fun safely.

Recommended Locations:

Pro Tip: Bring extra clothes, towels, and waterproof bags to keep your belongings dry.

2. Cultural Workshops and Performances

Songkran is not just about getting wet—it’s also a time for reflection, appreciation, and cultural learning. Singapore’s Thai community and local event organizers often host activities that introduce families to traditional Thai practices.

Activities to Look Out For:

• Thai dance and puppet shows for children

• Workshops on making floral garlands and traditional Thai crafts

• Storytelling sessions about the origins of Songkran

• Interactive cooking classes with Thai dishes simplified for kids

These activities not only offer a quieter, more meaningful way to celebrate but also allow children to gain a deeper understanding of Thai traditions.

3. Songkran Food Fairs with Thai Cuisine

No festival is complete without delicious food. Several shopping malls and cultural centres host Thai-themed food fairs during the Songkran season.

Family-friendly food options include:

• Mango sticky rice (a hit with both kids and adults)

• Thai iced milk tea (sweet, cool, and refreshing)

• Mildly spiced Pad Thai noodles

• Grilled skewers and tropical fruit cups

Many events also offer food tasting sessions, live cooking stations, and Thai snacks that children can enjoy.

4. Songkran Parades and Live Entertainment

Singapore’s event spaces and community areas often organize parades and performances to mark Songkran. These events usually involve traditional Thai music, colourful costumes, and even choreographed water shows.

Why families love it:

• Parades are often interactive and include giveaways for children

• Dedicated “dry zones” are available for spectators who don’t want to get wet

• Live music and dance acts keep the atmosphere energetic and inclusive

Keep an eye out for local event announcements, especially at venues like The Star Vista, Downtown East, and SAFRA Clubs.

Upcoming Songkran Events in Singapore (2025)

Here’s a quick snapshot of confirmed Songkran-themed family events happening this April in Singapore:

How to Prepare for a Songkran Family Outing?

Planning ahead can help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Family Checklist:

• Comfortable clothing that dries quickly

• Waterproof pouches for phones and valuables

• Extra change of clothes and flip-flops

• Towels and sunscreen

• Snacks and water bottles for hydration

• A designated meetup point in case of separation

Many venues also have lockers and shaded resting areas, so do a quick check before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are Songkran events in Singapore suitable for young children?

Yes, most events are designed with families in mind. Splash zones for children are usually shallow and supervised. Organizers often have age-specific activities and dry zones for those who prefer not to get wet.

Q2: Do I need tickets to attend these Songkran events?

It depends on the venue. Larger events like carnivals or themed splash parties may require pre-registration or an entry fee, while mall-based celebrations and community activities are usually free and open to the public.

Q3: What if my child doesn’t like water play?

No problem at all. Many Songkran celebrations offer cultural programs such as Thai storytelling, cooking classes, and arts and crafts that don’t involve water. There’s something for every personality.

Q4: Is the food at Songkran festivals child-friendly?

Yes, most vendors offer milder or non-spicy versions of classic Thai dishes for children. You’ll also find plenty of sweet treats like Thai coconut jelly, fruit popsicles, and milk teas.

Final Thoughts

Songkran in Singapore is more than just a fun festival—it’s an opportunity for families to connect, explore a vibrant culture, and make joyful memories together. Whether you choose to dive into a full-blown water fight or prefer to enjoy the cultural side of the festival, there’s no shortage of ways to participate.

This April, consider making Songkran part of your family’s festive calendar. It’s a celebration that perfectly blends learning, laughter, and love—right in the heart of Singapore.

Click here to learn more