Hat Yai has officially kicked off its Songkran celebrations with vendors drawing attention by selling giant 200-litre water tanks for 500 baht, as the city rolls out large-scale preparations for the “Hatyai Midnight Songkran 2026” festival.
From around 17:00 on April 10, stalls began lining Niphat Uthit 3 Road and Thamnunvithi Road in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province, as the municipality, together with local agencies, launched the first day of the extended Songkran event in the city centre.
Sellers were seen offering a range of water-fight essentials, including water guns, ice, and large water containers. Some vendors prominently displayed signs advertising 200-litre water tanks with ice included for 500 baht, positioning them as ready-made options for revellers.
At the same time, the Hat Yai Municipality has prepared more than 200 large 200-litre water tanks across the event area, made available for free use by attendees. Officials have also set up a security command centre and tightened safety measures throughout the venue.
Local transport worker Paramet Karavee, 32, said business conditions have started to improve following recent flooding, with more work and income opportunities returning to the area. He noted that while tourist numbers are not yet at peak levels, early arrivals from Malaysia have already been observed entering the city through border checkpoints.
Prices for water and ice in the main festival zones, including Odean Junction, remain relatively stable. A standard set of a 200-litre water tank with a sack of ice is being sold at around 500 baht, a price level commonly maintained by vendors to avoid overcharging visitors during the festival period.
