Thai residents are eager to celebrate Songkran this year, but worry about Covid19 persists 

For the first time in three years, Songkran will be celebrated in Thailand without any major restrictions. Latest research from YouGov Surveys shows that only a fifth of online Thais do not intend to participate in the celebrations this year (19%), while the majority are set to enjoy a myriad of festivities.

YouGov data shows that residents feel more confident this year and nearly half (49%) said they are not worried about Covid-19 during Songkran celebrations. Having said that, a third (33%) expressed some concern, while under a fifth (18%) are extremely or pretty worried about Covid19.

Worry is higher among GenZ respondents, with nearly a quarter of them (23%) saying they are extremely or pretty worried about Covid-19 during the festival.

Despite concerns, a majority in Thailand looks forward to Songkran this year. Out of those who will be celebrating the festival, more than half (55%) will indulge in the practice of pouring water on the hands of their elders to seek their blessings or make merit at a temple (53%), making them the most popular activities this year.

Going out on vacation (44%), making merit (39%), going out and splashing water around the house (32%), or splashing water at tourist spots (25%) are some other activities that Thai residents are likely to participate in this season.

GenZ are more likely to engage in water splashing activities, while GenX and Boomers are more likely to visit temples and make merit.

Songkran is also an opportunity for families to get together and enjoy specially prepared meals.

When it comes to travelling during the festival, most people will either return home/to their hometown (31%) or travel domestically (26%). One in ten (9%) intend to travel overseas but fewer will travel for work (4%). Two in five (39%) do not plan to travel anywhere during the festival, with a higher proportion of the older population (GenX and Boomers) saying this compared to the rest.

Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provides quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online from 20-23 March 2023, with a sample of 2,061 online adults in Thailand (aged 18+ years), using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by gender, age, socioeconomic class, city tier to be representative of the adult Thailand online population (18 years or older) and reflect the latest population estimates. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.