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  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran007.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais squirt each other with water on Songkran in central Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran003.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: A Thai woman throws water at a tourist while he passes a bar during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran019.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran018.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: A boy squirts a motorcycle taxi with water during Songkran festivities in central Bangkok. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran001.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran021.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran015.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran014.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran012.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais squirt each other with water on Songkran in central Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran006.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: A woman cleanses a Buddha statue at a temple on Songkran in central Bangkok Tuesday. The tradition of spraying people with water started with cleansing the statues. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran002.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran017.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais throw water on a tourist Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran016.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran011.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran008.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais squirt each other with water on Songkran in central Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran004.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran009.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: A Thai woman stands in the street after getting doused with water during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran020.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais squirt each other with water on Songkran in central Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran005.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thais and tourists get into water fights during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran010.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist wearing a bathrobe participates in a Songkran water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty032.jpg
  • Apr. 13, 2010 - Bangkok, Thailand: Thai women throw water at a tourist during Songkran festivities on a soi off of Sukhumvit Rd in Bangkok Tuesday. Songkran is the Thai New Year's holiday, celebrated from April 13 - 15. This year's official celebrations have been cancelled because of the Red Shirt protests but Thais are still marking the holiday. It's one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. Songkran originally was celebrated only in the north of Thailand, and was adapted from the Indian Holi festival. Except the Thais throw water instead of colored powder. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this "blessed" water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner. Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Songkran013.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist wearing a bathrobe participates in a Songkran water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty031.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist shoots a water gun at a woman tending bar on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty025.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Bangkok firefighters hose down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty019.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A firefighter hoses down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty016.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A community water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty030.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A boy uses a bucket to throw water on a tourist on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty028.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women on a chartered bus participate in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty018.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People load their water guns from a cooler chest full of water on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty004.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Boys in a water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty033.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists load their water gun on Phloen Chit Road on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty003.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A girl's family washes her eyes out while they play in the foam pool on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty002.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A firefighter hoses down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty021.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A community water fight on Silom Road on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty020.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A man carries his daughter through a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty005.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist with a Super Squirter goes after people in a water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty029.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A woman on a motorcycle taxi rides through a water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty026.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Bangkok firefighters hose down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty022.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A boy walks down a Bangkok street looking for a water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty017.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A firefighter hoses down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty012.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women with talc on their face walk through a water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty009.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist shoots a water gun at a woman tending bar on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty024.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Boys reload their water guns with help from a Bangkok firefighter on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty014.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman throws water at passers by on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty007.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman reacts to get hitting by water in a water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty006.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman plays in the foam pool at Central World on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty001.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A boy uses a bucket to throw water on a tourist on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty027.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman dances in the midst of a water fight on Sukhumvit Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty023.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women with talc on their face walk through a water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty008.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A tourist holds a water gun above the crowd on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty034.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A firefighter hoses down the crowd in a community water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty015.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women take part in a community fight on Silom Road on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty013.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People in a water fight take shelter under a store awning on Soi Convent on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty011.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A community water fight on Soi Nana on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty035.jpg
  • 14 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A man uses a fire hose on people in a water fight on April 14, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people and is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away. PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranGetty010.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers relax before the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran009.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran023.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Thai law enforcement and security personnel at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran021.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers take photos of each other before the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran011.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman makes traditional Thai Songkran crafts at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran001.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A tourist comes out of a water fight on Khao San Road, Bangkok's backpacker district, on the first day of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay047.jpg
  • 10 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Thai Buddhist bathes a Buddha statue at Gateway, a mall in Bangkok, for Songkran. Many malls put out shrines for Songkran so people can pray and make merit while they shop. Songkran, also called the "Water Festival" is the traditional Thai New Year. It was celebrated as the New Year until 1940, when Thailand made January 1 the official start of the New Year. Songkran is now a three day holiday starting on April 13. Many people go to temples to make merit in the days leading up to Songkran. They bathe Buddha statues to bring themselves good luck in the coming year. The holiday is best known for water fights and throwing water at strangers. Thais and foreigners go out with giant squirt guns or buckets of water and throw the water at strangers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPreparations010.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran012.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Thai child uses a hose to squirt tourists on Khao San Road, Bangkok's backpacker district, during Songkran water fights. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay059.jpg
  • 10 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Thai Buddhist bathes a Buddha statue at Siam Paragon, an upscale mall in Bangkok, for Songkran. Many malls put out shrines for Songkran so people can pray and make merit while they shop. Songkran, also called the "Water Festival" is the traditional Thai New Year. It was celebrated as the New Year until 1940, when Thailand made January 1 the official start of the New Year. Songkran is now a three day holiday starting on April 13. Many people go to temples to make merit in the days leading up to Songkran. They bathe Buddha statues to bring themselves good luck in the coming year. The holiday is best known for water fights and throwing water at strangers. Thais and foreigners go out with giant squirt guns or buckets of water and throw the water at strangers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPreparations006.jpg
  • 10 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A man prays at a Buddha statue at Wat Pathumwanaram Ratchaworawiharn in central Bangkok put out for Songkran. Songkran, also called the "Water Festival" is the traditional Thai New Year. It was celebrated as the New Year until 1940, when Thailand made January 1 the official start of the New Year. Songkran is now a three day holiday starting on April 13. Many people go to temples to make merit in the days leading up to Songkran. They bathe Buddha statues to bring themselves good luck in the coming year. The holiday is best known for water fights and throwing water at strangers. Thais and foreigners go out with giant squirt guns or buckets of water and throw the water at strangers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPreparations001.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Japanese tourist is deluged with water during a Songkran water fight on Khao San Road, which is Bangkok's "backpacker" district, during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran087.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A man prays on the plaza in front of Bangkok's City Hall building on the first day of Songkran. Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year's Festival. It is held April 13-16. Many Thais mark the holiday by going to temples and making merit by giving extra alms to monks or offering extra prayers. They also mark Songkran with joyous water fights. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran054.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Thai law enforcement and security personnel at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran006.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran003.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Bangkok city officials make merit by presenting gifts to elders during a Songkran ceremony at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay022.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Bangkok city officials make merit by presenting gifts to elders during a Songkran ceremony at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay021.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: People give alms to monks during a merit making ceremony for Songkran at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay018.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People pray during a mass merit making ceremony for Songkran at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay014.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman prays and lights incense during a Songkran ceremony at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay011.jpg
  • 10 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Thai Buddhist bathes a Buddha statue at Siam Paragon, an upscale mall in Bangkok, for Songkran. Many malls put out shrines for Songkran so people can pray and make merit while they shop. Songkran, also called the "Water Festival" is the traditional Thai New Year. It was celebrated as the New Year until 1940, when Thailand made January 1 the official start of the New Year. Songkran is now a three day holiday starting on April 13. Many people go to temples to make merit in the days leading up to Songkran. They bathe Buddha statues to bring themselves good luck in the coming year. The holiday is best known for water fights and throwing water at strangers. Thais and foreigners go out with giant squirt guns or buckets of water and throw the water at strangers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPreparations008.jpg
  • 10 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Thai Buddhist bathes a Buddha statue at Siam Paragon, an upscale mall in Bangkok, for Songkran. Many malls put out shrines for Songkran so people can pray and make merit while they shop. Songkran, also called the "Water Festival" is the traditional Thai New Year. It was celebrated as the New Year until 1940, when Thailand made January 1 the official start of the New Year. Songkran is now a three day holiday starting on April 13. Many people go to temples to make merit in the days leading up to Songkran. They bathe Buddha statues to bring themselves good luck in the coming year. The holiday is best known for water fights and throwing water at strangers. Thais and foreigners go out with giant squirt guns or buckets of water and throw the water at strangers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPreparations007.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Thais and foreign tourists throw water on tourists in a "tuk-tuk" (three wheeled taxi) during Songkran celebrations on Soi Nana, off of Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran093.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Japanese tourist is deluged with water during a Songkran water fight on Khao San Road, which is Bangkok's "backpacker" district, during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran083.jpg
  • 11 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Songkran travelers get free haircuts in Hua Lamphong train station during the Songkran travel period at Hua Lamphong train station in Bangkok. Songkran is the traditional Thai Lunar New Year. It is celebrated, under different names, in Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and some parts of Vietnam and China. In most places the holiday is marked by water throwing and water fights and it is sometimes called the "water festival." This year's Songkran celebration in Thailand will be more subdued than usual because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of their revered Late King, Bhumibol Adulyadej. Songkran is officially a three day holiday, April 13-15, but is frequently celebrated for a full week. Thais start traveling back to their home provinces over the weekend; busses and trains going out of town have been packed.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SongkranPrepColor024.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: An entertainer uses an iPhone for a video chat before the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran018.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Samples of traditional Thai desserts at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran004.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman makes traditional Thai Songkran crafts at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran002.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People give alms to novices (young monks) during a merit making ceremony for Songkran at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay019.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman in Bangkok with paste on her face during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. The paste is a part of the traditional celebration of Songkran and is thought to ward off evil. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran078.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers walk into the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran022.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers relax before the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran017.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers at the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran014.jpg
  • 08 APRIL 2017 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Entertainers take photos of each other before the "Amazing Songkran" festival in Benchasiri Park in Bangkok. The festival was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to highlight the cultural aspects of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1. Songkran 2017 is expected to be more subdued than Songkran usually is because Thais are still mourning the October 2016 death of revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AmazingSongkran010.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists in a water fight on Khao San Road, Bangkok's backpacker district, during Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay046.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Thai child with a large squirt gun on Khao San Road, Bangkok's backpacker district, during Songkran water fights. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay038.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman bathes a Buddha statue in scented oils at Wat Chana Songkram in Bangkok. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay032.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People pray during a mass merit making ceremony for Songkran at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay013.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A woman bathes a Buddha statue in scented oils at Bangkok City Hall. Many people go to temples and religious ceremonies to make merit on Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay007.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Thais use a pickup truck to get through a water fight on Khao San Road, which is Bangkok's "backpacker" district, during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran080.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Thais and foreign tourists participate in water fights up and down Khao San Road, which is Bangkok's "backpacker" district, during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran077.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Thais and foreign tourists participate in water fights up and down Khao San Road, which is Bangkok's "backpacker" district, during Songkran celebrations in the Thai capital. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If the days fall on a weekend, the missed days are taken on the weekdays immediately following. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran075.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Thai novice monks receive alms during a merit making ceremony for Songkran at the Bangkok City Hall. Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year's Festival. It is held April 13-16. Many Thais mark the holiday by going to temples and making merit by giving extra alms to monks or offering extra prayers. They also mark Songkran with joyous water fights. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    Songkran047.jpg
  • 13 APRIL 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Thai man armed with squirt guns on the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok on the first day of Songkran. Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 16 April. Songkran is in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season and provides an excuse for people to cool off in friendly water fights that take place throughout the country. Songkran has been a national holiday since 1940, when Thailand moved the first day of the year to January 1.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    2014Songkran1stDay061.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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