The ‘new normal’ requirements for the Thai New Year, Songkran celebrations. This year’s Songkran focuses on the traditional aspects of the festival, while other activities; such as water splashing and powder smearing are banned.

Instead, people are asked to observe Songkran by clean their houses or local temples, making merit by pouring water on Buddha statues, praying and listening to monks’ teachings, pouring water on elders’ hands, wearing face masks and appropriate outfits, not showing skin, and to send theirs through online means people are unable to travel home.

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People were also asked to avoid taking drugs or alcohol over the holidays.

The Ministry of Culture has asked people to join online celebrations through SongkranOnline.com, which launched today

(Apr 12) and will continue until Apr 17.

No directives specifically regarding Songkran rules have been issued by the Phuket Provincial Office.

However, officials have repeatedly asked people to observe the measures now in effect to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Pubs and bars across the island have been closed by the order until April 18 to help prevent the current wave of infections from spreading. Restaurants, beverage outlets, food centers, and food parks are allowed to open normally but are not to sell alcohol or allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed on their premises after midnight.

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