2013 Songkran Festival in Phuket kicks off on 13th April but last night it already got started as water canons, super soakers and  barrels of water popped up everywhere. A playful party atmosphere quickly developed and many mini water battles broke out but to the delight of people who all seemed to go back to their childhood days of playing with water.

With all the joy of the festival going on, there is still the element of danger as every year Songkran is plagued with many deaths throughout Thailand. Songkran celebrations is when the rice harvest takes place and farmers wait for the rains to begin in order to plant their rice. This would be the driest point of each year so it seems sort of illogical to waste water by pouring it over elders’ hands but gradually over the years Songkran has developed to the point of  water throwing using buckets and water guns.

This year, with the so called 11 rules in place, which is not without criticism, many welcome it although Phuket police urge Songkran celebrants to take it easy. They want people, locals and tourist alike, to enjoy themselves but be aware of the safety for their own sakes. A simple splash of water could become fatal at anytime. So far Patong area is the most crowded but other areas like Phuket town and Karon are crowded as well. The Phuket nightlife is seeing lesser patronage due to everyone being on the streets but still they are fairly packed up with people in need of alcohol.

It's been a hell of a party for 2013 and next year you should be here too.

Phuket big bike week will be on the 14th April just a day after Songkran kicks off so it's going to be a continuous party.