Songkran is celebrated as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 - 15 April. The date is fixed now but was originally based on the vernal equinox. It is also celebrated in Burma, Cambodia and Laos. Songkran was traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends and neighbors. Some of the young people put water on our elderly hands rather than totally soak us. On the main street of Khao Lak, Thais and tourists mingled and prepared for water battles. Tanks on the sidewalks were filled from the water truck and ready for dipping.