More room to make a splash as Songkran fun moves
Kowloon City's celebration of the Thai New Year will return next week, with organisers saying on Saturday that a bigger space had been selected for the water-splashing fun. The Songkran Festival is to take place from Friday to Sunday, April 12 to 14, in the traditional heart of Hong Kong's Thai community.  The water-splashing usually takes place in South Wall Road. But the Kowloon City district officer, Alice Choi, said the street would host a bazaar instead, with the water fun moving to the nearby Carpenter Road Park Basketball Court. "We hope people can splash the water safely... There will be many people gathering in South Wall Road because there will be a bazaar there. You should imagine that not everyone likes to be splashed suddenly when they are walking on the street," she said. Choi added that organisers may limit the number of people allowed inside the basketball court to ensure safety. Last year, two men were arrested over accusations that they fired water at police officers and the media at the festival. Music elements will be added to the festival this year, and participants will also be able to taste Thai food and enjoy different performances. Thai Consul General Chaturont Chaiyakam said the festival not only helps Hong Kong people to learn more about Thai culture, but can also boost the economy of the SAR. "This event is not only for Thai people, but we want to help boost the economy of Kowloon City," he said. Thais celebrate Songkran on April 13 and traditionally pour water to symbolise cleansing, reverence and good fortune at the start of the new year, giving rise to the water splashing that's associated with the holiday in modern times.