Much of Thai culture is rooted in its strong belief in the spiritual world and how it affects daily life. Although this is the foundation of the Buddhist faith, it also affects the people and the environment.
Although I will not be abroad during the Thai New Year celebration, it is a tradition that I am certain I will come back to Thailand to experience. From April 13 to April 15 every year, there is a countrywide water fight that signals the celebration of the new year. Yes, I do mean an actual waterfight! The holiday is called Songkran, and it is unlike anything I have ever witnessed personally. This is one of the favorite days of nearly any Thai person because it is a holiday when so many people return home to spend time with family while also participating in an extremely fun water sport competition.
The national holiday is meant to purify the environment of any negative spirits with the use of the water's cleansing powers. Although this is the spiritual belief that this holiday is rooted in, there are also environmental reasons for the tradition.
