People of old were wise enough to initiate the Songkran Festival to cool themselves off the heat and celebrate it as the Thai New Year. In the central region, the festivel is usually held on the 13th,14th and 15th of April while in the East there is a difference as the water throwing activities commence on the 16th or 17th ,18th or 19th known as "Wan Lai" (Flowing Day).

Pattaya City hold its Wan Lai Festival annually on April 19th with activities such as water pouring for the elders, processions and the fun of dowsing and another with water, a time for Thais and foreigners alike.

PATTAYA FESTIVAL usually held at the middle of April to promote tourism and Pattaya's reputation. Floral floats are paraded along the streets. The Miss Pattaya Beauty contest is held as well as traditional an aquatic sports competitions and construction of sand castles. A spectacular fireworks display takes place on the beach and firecrackers are also set off. Simultanequsly, there are arts and cultural performances, exhibitions and souvenirs for sale.