Songkran celebrations continue in Phra Pradaeng with Mon cultural festival drawing large crowds
Phra Pradaeng's Songkran festival continued drawing large crowds on April 26, with the Mon cultural celebration featuring water activities, parades, and traditional performances across Samut Prakan district.
SAMUT PRAKAN — Songkran celebrations are still in full swing in Phra Pradaeng district, where large crowds of tourists and locals gathered on April 26 for one of Thailand's most culturally distinctive New Year festivals, known for preserving Mon heritage traditions.
By 11:30 on April 26, 2026, the atmosphere in Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan province, was lively as visitors continued splashing water under intense heat, particularly in front of the district office where a stage and live performances were set up.
Despite many believing the traditional Songkran period had ended, the festival in Phra Pradaeng—also known as "Songkran Pak Lat"—continues to draw strong participation, with streets and key intersections filled with crowds enjoying water activities and entertainment.
Major roads including Suksawat Road, Pu Chao Saming Phrai Road, and Phetchahung Road, as well as surrounding alleyways, were packed with revellers on both sides, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere across the district.
Authorities have implemented strict traffic and safety measures this year, including a ban on pickup trucks carrying water tanks and passengers from entering 13 main routes, in an effort to prevent accidents and ease congestion.
Police from multiple stations across Samut Prakan have been deployed to manage traffic, maintain order, and ensure public safety throughout the festival period.
Phra Pradaeng Songkran is a long-standing tradition of Thai-Mon communities, featuring cultural activities such as the Nang Songkran procession, floral floats, traditional Mon folk games including "Saba Raman," and performances like Mon dance.
The festival also features major parades and cultural showcases, which are set to continue through the afternoon with the official opening ceremony and procession.
The event highlights the unique identity of Mon heritage in Thailand and is widely regarded as one of the country's most culturally significant Songkran celebrations, extending beyond the traditional festival period with activities continuing for several days each year.
