Phra Pradaeng Fish Parade Festival
The Fish Procession is part of the Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival. In the past, this traditional celebration was known as the “Pak Lat Songkran Festival.” It is a local cultural tradition preserved and passed down by the Thai–Mon community since the reign of King Rama II (Phra Phutthaloetla Naphalai) of the Chakri Dynasty.
The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival is held one week after the traditional Thai New Year. One of its major highlights is the grand procession of the Songkran Goddess, accompanied by the spectacular and unique “Bird and Fish Parade,” a local cultural tradition found nowhere else.
Local residents dress in traditional Mon (Raman) attire and visit temples to make merit. They also release birds and fish as a ritual to ward off misfortune and bring good luck and prosperity to themselves and their families.
At night, visitors can enjoy performances of “Saba Raman” and “Saba Toi,” traditional Mon games that the Mon community of Phra Pradaeng has preserved and continues to showcase in Mon villages and Mon temples throughout the municipality.
Today, the Fish Parade is widely known among both Thai and international visitors. Each year, the festival attracts no fewer than fifty thousand people who come to witness this remarkable cultural celebration.
The History of the Fish Parade Tradition
The origin of this tradition is derived from a Mon legend passed down through generations. It tells of a revered monk who had many disciples and was highly skilled in divination. One day, he examined the fate of one of his disciples—a young novice monk—and discovered that the novice was destined to die soon. Deeply saddened yet unable to alter fate, the monk advised the novice to return home to visit his family one last time before his impending death.
After receiving the monk’s permission, the novice set out for home. On the way, he passed through a rice field and came upon a dried-up marsh where fish were trapped in the mud, struggling and waiting to die. Feeling compassion for them, the novice gathered the fish and released them into a nearby canal, then continued his journey home. When the time came, he returned to the temple.
Upon seeing the novice return safely, the monk was astonished because he trusted his own prediction. After inquiring, he learned that on the way home, the novice had saved the stranded fish, giving them life again. The monk then understood that the merit the novice had created had extended his lifespan and protected him from death.
From this legend, the Mon people adopted the story as an example and have continued the practice ever since. As for the “Bird Parade,” which is now held alongside the “Fish Parade,” it was established later on.
Local Treasures of Phra Pradaeng
In addition, the event features a vibrant light and sound show at the Phra Pradaeng Electric Fire Fort Historical Park, along with a traditional Thai music performance by the Phra Pradaeng Municipal Youth Center. Visitors can also enjoy Kwan-Ha-Kor (Galamae) stirring demonstrations a famous local sweet of Phra Pradaeng. If you have a chance to visit Samut Prakan, this is an experience you shouldn’t miss! See more Samut Prakan attractions here.
Travel
Venue:
The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival will be held from 13–15 April 2024 and 19–21 April 2024 at Wat Klang Suan and the Phra Pradaeng District Office, Samut Prakan Province.
Directions:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/P1wX8uXnzbPbicP8A
