The Phra Prong Water Pouring Festival is an important traditional event held annually during the Songkran Festival in mid-April, usually from April 15 to 19 (though in some years the main ceremonies are set between April 17 and 19). The festival takes place at the Phra Prong Shrine, located along Highway No. 33 (Suwannason Road) at the border between Kabin Buri District of Prachinburi Province and Sa Kaeo Province. The shrine is regarded as the sacred abode of Phra Prong, a guardian spirit deeply revered by locals from Sa Kaeo, Prachinburi, and surrounding provinces. According to local belief, travelers passing this area must pay respect to the shrine or at least honk their car horn; otherwise, they may face misfortune on their journey.

 

Legends tell that Phra Prong was originally Luang Decha Siri, a courageous frontier guard who earned the respect of local communities. He was later venerated as Phra Prong, with additional folklore stating that he had companions known as Phra Pho Sua (Tiger Spirit) and Phra Pho Sing (Lion Spirit), who are also revered in nearby regions. The original shrine was located at Ban Nong Don by the Phra Prong stream in Kabin Buri, but due to increasing numbers of worshippers, the shrine was relocated in 1974 to its current site along Suwannason Road.

 

The annual celebration begins on April 15 with a ritual to move the Phra Prong image to a lower pedestal, allowing devotees to pour lustral water and apply gold leaf. In the evening, Buddhist monks chant blessings followed by nightly entertainments such as outdoor films, Likay (traditional folk theater), and live music, which continue from April 16 to 18. The highlight comes on April 19, when a grand procession takes place. The image of Phra Prong is paraded along Suwannason Road into Sa Kaeo Province, passing through local communities such as Ban Kaeng, Sala Lamduan, Mueang Kaew shopping center, and Sa Kaeo town market before returning to the shrine. The entire route covers over 20 kilometers, and thousands of people line the streets to take part, splashing water joyfully. The procession itself often extends over a kilometer in length, with more than 100 decorated vehicles carrying large water tanks, sound systems, and long-drum troupes.

 

Alongside the religious rites and parade, other activities include food offerings to monks, Kathin-like donations, and the presentation of goods to the shrine. Devotees also provide free meals to participants, offering dishes such as noodles, Pad Thai, Som Tam, curry with rice, and local specialties. These acts of generosity reflect the communal spirit and shared faith of the people.

 

The Phra Prong Water Pouring Festival is not only a religious event but also a symbol of community unity, generosity, and cultural continuity. It blends sacred rituals with the joyful spirit of Songkran, reinforcing both devotion and festive celebration.

 

 

It is held annually during the Songkran Festival, usually from April 15 to 19, with the main events often scheduled between April 17 and 19.

 

Locals believe Phra Prong protects travelers. Passing the shrine without showing respect, even by honking as a sign of reverence, may lead to misfortune.

 

The procession starts at the Phra Prong Shrine, proceeds along Highway No. 33 into Sa Kaeo Province, passes local communities and markets, then returns to the shrine, covering more than 20 kilometers.

 

Visitors can take part in water-pouring and gold-leaf rituals, watch nightly cultural performances, and enjoy splashing water with locals during the parade.

 

It uniquely combines devotion to Phra Prong with the festive water-splashing of Songkran, creating both a spiritual and joyful atmosphere.