Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai residents and tourists have started to come out to play Songkran, especially around the moat and Thapae Gate square, amidst the sweltering heat.

According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere at Thapae Gate Square in the middle of Chiang Mai City has begun to see both locals and foreign tourists gathering for Songkran celebrations. Participants carry water guns as their choice of “weaponry” and engage in water fights around the Thapae Gate Square, which connects to the Chiang Mai moat, adding a splash of fun to the scorching heat. The area is anticipated to become more lively as the day progresses. Vendors have already started reserving space to sell Songkran-related products, leading to packed stalls offering food, water gun equipment, and ice, which are the most sought-after items during Songkran in Chiang Mai annually.

Today also marks the 729th anniversary of Chiang Mai City, adding a historical significance to the celebrations. Locals and tourists dress in traditional attire to participate in merit-making activities by offering alms to monks for good fortune. A procession of 729 dancers is set to bring Lanna offerings to the Three Kings Monument, where they will perform the Yo Suai ceremony in homage to Phraya Mangrai, the ruler of Chiang Mai, along with King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai, and King Ngam Mueang of Phayao, who were instrumental in founding the city of Nopphaburi Si Nakhon Ping Chiang Mai in 1839. The dancers’ fingernail performances to honor the three ancestors captivated the tourists in attendance. The Songkran water festival’s vibrant atmosphere is anticipated to continue throughout the festivities. The TAT Chiang Mai office estimates that the celebrations will draw more than 130,000 tourists to Chiang Mai, generating over 1.5 billion baht in revenue.