The ambassador welcomed the guests on the terrace lavishly decorated in yellow and white and gave a brief introductory speech. Songkran, which is actually celebrated on April 30, is an expression of the shared traditional New Year celebrations in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, the ambassador said. It marks “the transition into a new year and is a time of renewal, reflection, and new beginnings.” Recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, Songkran is a festival of family, gratitude, and mutual respect. On this day, special appreciation is shown to parents and elders.

The ambassador especially welcomed former employees of the embassy and members of the Thai community in Berlin and the surrounding area. At the same time, he remembered the late Queen Sirikit and honored her contributions to the preservation and promotion of Thai culture, especially her support for Thai textile design and Thai silk. Visitors were able to gain an impression of this in the exhibition set up at the embassy residence, which displayed elegant outfits in traditional style made of genuine Thai silk.

After a ritual water blessing and the traditional water pouring ceremony, guests were able to experience the diversity of Thai cuisine, which was set up at several stands in the garden.