Flowers

How do you usually celebrate Songkran? 

I, as all Thai people, do the following:

Rod Nam Dam Hua (Respect to Elders). Younger people pour water over the hands of elders (like parents and grandparents) as a sign of respect and to ask for blessings. This is a beautiful, gentle, and respectful tradition.

Epic Water Fights/Festival. Streets turn into water battle zones with people using water guns, buckets, and hoses.

What does Songkran mean to you personally?

For me, Songkran means happy and meaningful time with family and friends. During Songkran, many people return to their hometowns to reunite with loved ones, show respect to elders, and spend quality time together. Families share meals, perform traditional rituals, and enjoy each other’s company. So while the streets are full of fun and water, the heart of Songkran is about connection, gratitude, and love - a truly happy time with family and friends.

Can you share a favorite memory of celebrating Songkran growing up?

My favourite memory of celebrating Songkran was from when I was little. We celebrated together as one big family, with relatives from both my mom’s and dad’s sides all joining in. We cooked and ate together. I got to meet all my relatives and cousins, played and laughed together. It was such a warm, meaningful, and unforgettable time.

Are there any traditional dishes specifically prepared for Songkran?

While there aren't dishes exclusive to Songkran like during some other holidays, traditional Thai foods play a big part in the celebration, especially because Songkran is a time when families gather and cook together. Here are some favourites often enjoyed during Songkran: Khao Chae, Som Tum, Larb and Nam Tok, Grilled Meats, and Thai Sweets.

As a chef, how do you bring the spirit of Songkran into your kitchen or restaurant?

As a chef, bringing the spirit of Songkran into the kitchen or restaurant is all about creating an atmosphere of warmth, togetherness, and celebration. I focus on preparing dishes that are not only traditional and flavorful but also evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort like those enjoyed during family gatherings.

If someone’s never celebrated Songkran before, what dish would you recommend they try first - and why?

If someone’s never celebrated Songkran before, I’d recommend they try Khao Chae. It’s the most iconic and unique dish associated with Songkran.

Khao Chae is rice soaked in cool, jasmine-scented water, served with a variety of savoury, sweet, and aromatic side dishes. It’s light, refreshing, and especially perfect for the hot summer weather when Songkran takes place. Unfortunately, we don't serve this at our restaurants. We did before, but it was hardly sold.

What’s one thing about Thai culture or cuisine during Songkran that you wish more people knew?

One thing I wish more people knew about Thai culture during Songkran is that beneath all the fun and water fights, the heart of the celebration is about respect, renewal, and reconnection.

It’s a deeply meaningful time when people honour their elders, make merit, and gather as families. The gentle act of pouring water over someone’s hands isn’t just symbolic—it represents cleansing, blessings, and a fresh start.

In the same spirit, Thai cuisine during Songkran is about sharing and caring - cooking together, enjoying traditional dishes, and creating warm, joyful memories around the table. It’s not just a festival, it’s a feeling.