The Myanmar water festival is an extremely significant and meaningful event for the people of Myanmar. Not only Thailand or Cambodia have the tradition of water splashing during the New Year, in Myanmar, the water festival season is also held annually, attracting a large number of foreign tourists. Let’s see what you need to know about the Myanmar water festival-Thingyan festival and some tips for you to enjoy this event!

What is the Myanmar water festival - Thingyan festival?

Myanmar water festival - Thingyan festival

The Myanmar water festival, also known as the Thingyan festival, is a traditional celebration that marks the beginning of the Burmese New Year. It’s called water festival because the main activity is people splashing water on each other to symbolize the washing away of the past year’s bad luck and sins, and to welcome the New year with a clean slate.

The Myanmar water festival takes place from the 13th to 16th of April each year. If you are in Myanmar during this time, do not miss this unique and remarkable traditional festival of the Burmese people. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich historical and culture traditions of Myanmar and witness the joy and enthusiasm of its people as they welcome the new year. If you only know about Songkran in Thailand, then this festival is a hidden gem that you need to explore!

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What to do at the Myanmar water festival - Thingyan festival?

Day 1: The first day of the Myanmar water festival, also called A-kyo nei, is Thingyan Eve. This day marks the beginning of the festivities with people gathering at local temples to make offerings and pray for blessings in the new year. As the day progresses, the streets become more lively with music and dance performance.

Day 2: The second day of the Myanmar water festival, also known as A-kya-nei, is the day when Thangya Min who is believed the King of Nat makes his descent from heaven to the earth. This day is the official start of the water festival. People pour out the street, start splashing water on each other, using water guns, buckets and hoses to cool off from the sun and to symbolize the washing away of sins and bad luck from the past year. It’s believed that the more you get wet, the more blessings you will have in the new year. Myanmar water festival is a joyous occasion for people of all ages to participate in the fun.

You will also see food vendors line the streets, having a variety of delicious snacks and treats to fuel the activities. Stopping for a little while to enjoy traditional Myanmar food such as Mont Lone Yay Paw, Mont Lat Seung or Ohn No Khauk Swe.

Myanmar water festival - Thingyan festival

Day 3: This is the last day of Myanmar water festival when people come back home and prepare for the first day of New year.

Day 4: This New year’s Day begins with a traditional water-pouring ceremony, in which people pour water over statues of the Budhha as a sign of respect and gratitude. This is followed by a visit to local pagodas to make offerings and pray for good luck in the New year. Although almost everywhere in Myanmar celebrates this festival, the largest celebrations are held in Yangon and Mandalay.

Tips for making the most of Myanmar water festival - Thingyan festival

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you take part in the Myanmar water festival:

1. Wear proper clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. It would be better if you choose light and easily dry clothes. Also, knowing what you need to bring when visiting Myanmar can be helpful!
2. Keep your belongings close to you and protect your electronics with waterproof bags.
3. Follow instructions from festival organizers and law enforcement.

From the lively water-splashing activities to the colorful street parades, the festival offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Myanmar heritage and culture. Add the Myanmar water festival to your travel itinerary and enjoy the festive spirit of Myanmar!

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