The Dai Water-Splashing Festival, also known as the "Bathing the Buddha Festival," is called "Sang Kan Bi Mai" in the Dai language, meaning the Dai New Year. People splash water to wash away the misfortunes of the past year and welcome a clean, auspicious new beginning. The festival originated from ancient Dai rituals of worshipping the water deity and welcoming the New Year. Over time, it gradually incorporated songs, dances, and competitions, growing into a grand celebration for all. In 2006, the Dai Water-Splashing Festival was inscribed on the first representative list of State-level intangible cultural heritage items.

Xishuangbanna Dai Water-Splashing Festival

How is the Water-Splashing Festival celebrated?

The festival usually occurs in mid-June according to the Dai calendar, roughly ten days before or after the Qingming Festival, and typically lasts three to four days. Festivities include water splashing, street fairs, dragon boat races, bathing the Buddha, chanting scriptures, the peacock dance, the white elephant dance, and more.

The Water-Splashing Festival features both "gentle splashing" and "vigorous splashing." Gentle splashing involves elders dipping tree branches in water and softly flicking droplets onto children as a blessing. Vigorous splashing is more energetic, especially in crowded squares where everyone splashes each other, sending water flying in all directions and creating a highly festive atmosphere.

There are a few etiquettes to follow when participating: always use clean water, as dirty water is not a blessing; women are advised to wear non-transparent clothing because you may get completely soaked; do not get upset when splashed, as it means someone is blessing you.

Dai Park water-splashing activity

Recommended Places to Experience the Festival

Water-Splashing Square in Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture: the main venue during the festival, with the largest scale and most vibrant atmosphere.

Dai Park: you can experience water-splashing activities here even outside of festival days.

Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park: offers water-splashing activities year-round and is suitable for spontaneous visits.