National—
On April 1st, 2024, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, StopDrink Network (SDN), and relevant agencies held a press conference on holding Songkran the Thai traditional way: Fun, safe, and without violence.
Dr. Pairoj Saonuam, the Deputy Manager of Thai Health, publicly stated that Thai Health encouraged Songkran Celebrations in alcohol-free areas. He also stated that Songkran could be just as fun alcohol free than with booze.
According to a survey during the Songkran days in 2023 of 939 Thai people and 400 foreigners in 18 provinces across Thailand, 88.90% of foreigners were satisfied with organizing alcohol-free Songkran events.
Meanwhile, 75.83% of the majority polled agreed to organize alcohol-free Songkran events, 79.23% agreed to play water in designated areas, 77.74% agreed to alcohol control in designated areas, and 73.16% agreed to the ban of alcohol sponsors and advertisements by hosts, according to the survey.
Regarding the advantages of organizing alcohol-free Songkran events, 90.42% of the majority agreed that it was more secure, 89.99% agreed that it could reduce road accidents, 89.67% agreed that it could reduce street quarrels, 85.20% agreed that it could reduce sexual harassment, and 80.30% agreed that it would not affect the Thai tourism.
