Songkran is a traditional Thai New Year festival, celebrated annually from April 13 to 15. The festival is known for its water fights and street parties, where people splash water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and renewal. However, Songkran is not just about water fights; it is also a time for family reunions, temple visits, and cultural activities.
One of the cultural activities that visitors can experience during Songkran is the Sawankhalok Food Festival. The festival is held in Sawankhalok district, Sukhothai province, and showcases the local cuisine and culture. Sawankhalok is famous for its ceramics and historical sites, such as Si Satchanalai Historical Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the Sawankhalok Food Festival, visitors can sample traditional dishes, such as khao soi (curry noodle soup), sai ua (spicy sausage), and khanom jeen (rice noodles with curry). There are also cultural performances, such as traditional dances and music, as well as exhibitions of local products, such as ceramics and textiles. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine, and to learn more about the history and traditions of Thailand.
History of Songkran Festival
Songkran Festival is a traditional Thai New Year celebration that takes place annually from April 13th to 15th. The festival is also celebrated in other Southeast Asian countries such as Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. The word “Songkran” comes from the Sanskrit language and means “astrological passage”.
The festival has its roots in ancient Hindu traditions and was originally celebrated as a way to mark the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. It was also a time to pay respect to ancestors and to cleanse oneself of bad luck and sins from the previous year.
Over time, Songkran has evolved into a water festival, where people splash water on each other as a way to cool off from the hot weather and to symbolize the washing away of bad luck and sins. The water is also used to pay respect to elders and to Buddha images, as a sign of purification and renewal.
Today, Songkran is one of the biggest and most popular festivals in Thailand, and is celebrated with parades, traditional dances, and lots of water throwing. It is also a time for families to come together and to visit temples to make merit and offer food to monks.
The Sawankhalok Food Festival is a popular event that takes place during Songkran in the Sukhothai province of Thailand. It is a celebration of the local cuisine and culture, and features a wide variety of delicious food, including traditional Thai dishes and local specialties.
Sawan-khalok Food Festival
The Sawan-khalok Food Festival is a must-visit event for foodies who want to experience the authentic taste of Thai cuisine. The festival takes place annually during the Songkran Festival from April 11 to 15 at the Public Health Park in Sawankhalok district. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of Thai dishes, snacks, and desserts that are freshly prepared by local vendors.
The festival is not just about food; it also features cultural performances, traditional music, and dance shows that showcase the rich heritage of Thailand. Visitors can witness the Song Nam Phraor ceremony, where locals purify the three ancient Buddha images by pouring scented water over them. This is a traditional Thai New Year ritual that signifies the washing away of bad luck and starting anew.
The Sawan-khalok Food Festival is a great opportunity to taste some of the lesser-known Thai dishes that are not commonly found in restaurants. Some of the popular dishes that you can try include:
- Kao Soi – a Northern Thai dish made with egg noodles, coconut milk, and curry paste.
- Miang Kham – a snack made with betel leaves, roasted coconut, peanuts, ginger, and lime.
- Moo Ping – grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
- Kanom Krok – bite-sized coconut pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
If you’re a food lover, the Sawan-khalok Food Festival is an event that you don’t want to miss. It’s a great opportunity to taste some of the best Thai food and experience the rich culture of Thailand.
Famous Dishes of Sawan-khalok Food Festival
Sawan-khalok Food Festival is an annual event that is held during the Songkran festival in Thailand. The festival is known for its diverse range of delicious food offerings that are unique to the Sawan-khalok district. Below are some of the famous dishes that you can try at the Sawan-khalok Food Festival:
1. Khao Soi Noodles
Khao Soi Noodles are a popular dish in northern Thailand, and they are a must-try at the Sawan-khalok Food Festival. The dish is made with egg noodles, coconut milk, and a curry sauce. It is usually served with chicken or beef and topped with crispy noodles.
2. Kanom Jeen Nam Ya
Kanom Jeen Nam Ya is a traditional Thai dish made with rice noodles and fish curry. The dish is usually served with vegetables and herbs, and it has a spicy and sour taste that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
3. Sai Ua
Sai Ua is a northern Thai sausage that is made with ground pork, herbs, and spices. The sausage is usually grilled and served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce.
4. Nam Prik Ong
Nam Prik Ong is a spicy tomato dip that is usually served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice. The dip is made with ground pork, tomatoes, and chili peppers, and it has a tangy and spicy taste that is sure to please.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that you can try at the Sawan-khalok Food Festival. Make sure to come hungry and ready to explore the unique flavors of this district!
Activities at the Songkran and Sawan-khalok Food Festival
The Songkran and Sawan-khalok Food Festival is a unique event that combines the traditional Thai New Year celebrations with a food festival. Visitors can enjoy the exciting water splashing activities, delicious food, and cultural performances during the festival. Here are some of the activities that you can expect to see at the festival:
- Water Splashing: As with all Songkran festivals, water splashing is a major part of the celebration. Visitors can join in the fun by splashing water on each other with buckets, water guns, and hoses. Be prepared to get wet!
- Food Stalls: The festival is a foodie’s paradise, with many stalls selling traditional Thai dishes and snacks. You can sample a variety of Thai food, including som tam (papaya salad), pad thai (stir-fried noodles), and mango sticky rice.
- Cultural Performances: The festival also features traditional Thai music and dance performances. You can watch performances by local artists and cultural groups, including the famous Thai dance called the Ram Thai.
- Sawan-khalok Food Festival: The Sawan-khalok Food Festival is part of the Songkran celebrations and takes place in Sukhothai. It is a food festival that showcases the unique cuisine of the Sukhothai province. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes, including khao yam (a rice salad), kai yang (grilled chicken), and khao soi (a noodle soup).
- Merit-making: Merit-making is an important part of Thai culture, and visitors can participate in this activity during the festival. You can make a donation to the local temple or offer food to the monks.
The Songkran and Sawan-khalok Food Festival is a unique and exciting event that combines the traditional Thai New Year celebrations with a food festival. Visitors can enjoy water splashing activities, delicious food, cultural performances, and merit-making during the festival. Be sure to bring your appetite and a change of clothes!
For more information about the festival, check out TAT Newsroom.
How to Attend the Songkran and Sawankhalok Food Festival
If you’re planning to attend the Songkran and Sawankhalok Food Festival, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Check the festival dates: The festival usually takes place from April 11-15 at the Public Health Park in Sawankhalok, so make sure to check the exact dates before planning your trip.
- Book accommodations in advance: Since the festival is a popular event, accommodations can fill up quickly. It’s best to book your accommodations in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
- Get ready to get wet: The festival is known for its water fights, so be prepared to get soaked. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and bring a waterproof bag to protect your electronics.
- Try the local cuisine: The festival is also a food festival, so make sure to try the local cuisine. From traditional Thai dishes to Sawankhalok specialties, there’s something for everyone.
- Respect the culture: While the festival is a fun event, it’s important to respect the local culture. Avoid wearing revealing clothing and be mindful of your behavior.
By following these tips, you can have a memorable experience at the Songkran and Sawankhalok Food Festival.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.