I would like to introduce one of Myanmar’s festivals, a famous one that is also popular among foreigners: the “Water Festival.” In Burmese, it is called “Thingyan,” a word that fills Myanmar people with excitement.

Thingyan is celebrated from April 12th to the 16th or 17th. During Thingyan, all companies and government offices in Myanmar are closed. Some people visit temples in other towns during this time. Even those living abroad return to Myanmar to participate in the Water Festival.

On the days of the festival, children play with water guns. Men and women travel by car to the festival, where they throw water and dance upon reaching the stages. Some elderly people go to temples to pray. I have spent a week as a monk in a temple during Thingyan instead of participating in the festival.

Thingyan is an annual event, but it’s very enjoyable and a happy time to meet friends. It is so important to the Myanmar people that it’s unforgettable, so I invite everyone to come and experience our festival. Once you experience this Water Festival, you’ll surely want to return. That’s why I introduced this festival.