Two Bangkok malls at ground zero as Thai economy seeks Songkran lift-off
Two Bangkok shopping malls have splashed out on Songkran this year as Thailand seeks an economic lift from three-week celebrations of its latest Unesco cultural heritage.
ICONSIAM and centralwOrld are hosting water-splashing parties until April 21 to cash in on the huge influx of both Thais and foreign tourists celebrating the traditional Thai New Year.
On the Thonburi side of the river in Khlong San district, ICONSIAM has invested over 60 million baht to hold “world-class entertainments” for visitors celebrating Songkran. Highlights include a water-splashing playground and mini concerts by over 70 artists alongside the Chao Phraya River.
Devotees seeking a can also pour water on the Phra Buddha Sihing Buddha image for prosperity in the year ahead, while shoppers can enjoy various promotions in the mall.
The Songkran festival at centralwOrld on the other side of the river has recorded over 200,000 Thai and foreign visitors per day.
Like ICONSIAM, an activity area in front of the shopping mall has turned into a battlefield for water splashing, while partygoers are being entertained with concerts by 60 leading artists.
The event features traditional performances of Muay Thai, Khon dance and puppet shows. Devotees can also pour water on Buddha images for prosperity.
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