The Songkran Festival is an important opportunity for families to spend time together and to continue Thai traditions. Many places are holding events to celebrate the festival, including popular shopping destinations in the city center. Central Embassy and Central Chidlom are hosting the "A Sense of Thai 2018" event, with the theme "Nirat Central". The event will run from today until April 22nd. Let's take a look at what's in store.

Upon entering Central Embassy, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking display of hundreds of lanterns suspended at various heights, reminiscent of the beautiful skies of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. This auspicious sight is a fitting tribute to the Thai New Year festival. In the central hall on the G floor, a Buddha statue has been installed for devotees to pay their respects and perform water-pouring ceremonies. Ascending to The Balcony on the 2nd floor, visitors can explore an exhibition showcasing Thai rice and exquisite jewelry, including gold ornaments and handcrafted bags. They can also participate in workshops hosted by OTOP Heritage. (According to staff, the exhibition will run until April 22, 2018.)

Shopaholics, don't miss out on the opportunity to splurge on high-quality Thai products at the Dok Khun Market on the 5th floor (open until April 16, 2018). This event features over 20 renowned shops. After shopping, head up to Open House on the 6th floor to check in. Every weekend in April, there will be exciting workshops that celebrate Thai heritage. These include workshops on making traditional Thai desserts, learning how to fold lotus petals, and creating old-fashioned children's toys that are suitable for kids. Additionally, Aromdee Art Studio will offer workshops for adults on Thai pattern painting on ceramic plates and jewelry making using traditional Thai weaving techniques.

In addition to the great activities, the digestive juices began to cheer up, making me think of the popular summer menu, Khao Chae. So I pressed the elevator down to the LG floor, Eathai zone, which I was familiar with. They guaranteed that it was the ultimate Thai food kingdom, the biggest, the most, and the most complete. So I came down to enjoy the "Cool and Refreshing Thai Food, Savory and Sweet" event (until April 16, 2018).

The venue boasts a wide array of authentic Thai dishes to quench your thirst and beat the heat. Highlights include royal cuisine from Krua Chaowang by Mom Luang Neuang Nilrat, such as Gaeng Nang Loey and Krating Thong. The Foodie by Kanchanicha Kitchen offers a unique Ploh Kai Kem dish, the only one of its kind in Thailand. Other must-try dishes include Khao Chae, a traditional rice dish served with a variety of side dishes, and Sup Gok Siem Bie, a rare and difficult-to-find dish. The Khao Chae is particularly noteworthy for its authentic flavor and aroma, and is available until the end of the month.

After a satisfying meal, we strolled through the Thai market, Eathai. Notably, from **April 13th to 16th, 2018**, officials informed us that there would be a ceremonial bathing of the Buddha statue, a traditional sand-carrying procession to the temple, and free workshops on garland weaving and pla ta pien (woven fish) making.

After a relaxing stroll through Central Embassy, head across the street to Central Chidlom. Here, you can participate in a bathing ceremony for the eight auspicious Buddha images, held from the mall's opening until 10 pm. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Thailand by witnessing the rare performance of "Nirat 4 Regions," showcasing the distinct styles of each region: Eastern: Nirat Mueang Klaeng, Central: Nirat Phra Bat, Southern: Nirat Pak Tai, and Northern: Nirat Hariphunchai. (11:00 am - 6:00 pm) Located on the 1st floor.

In addition, there are Thai-style workshops. Simply show your receipt (no minimum purchase required) to join the garland-making workshop (April 12-15, 2018). There are also daily snack workshops featuring different menus: Luk Chup (April 12, 2018), Khanom Chan (April 13, 2018), Khanom Chun (April 14, 2018), and Khanom Saneh Chan (April 15, 2018). The workshops are held from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Lobby Lounge on the 1st floor. Limited to 50 participants per day, so hurry and register!

In addition, there are many other interesting promotions available. Please visit

Central Embassy Facebook Page Central Department Store Facebook Page

This Songkran, if you're not heading out of town, you can still soak up the Thai atmosphere at the "A Sense of Thai 2018" event at Central Embassy shopping center. The event runs until April 22, 2018, while Central Chidlom's event runs until April 15, 2018, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

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