Songkran, which takes place in mid April, marks the official start of the Thai New Year. Songkran is celebrated throughout the country but perhaps nowhere with quite as much enthusiasm as in Chiang Mai where the festivities can last up to a full week. Songkran is a time for visiting with family, paying respect to elders and for going to temple to make offerings and to bathe the Buddha image with scented water. The water theme continues with the dousing of friends, family and complete strangers with copious amounts of water in an atmosphere of fun and merriment unlike any other. Street markets, food stalls, lively processions and performances add to the festive atmosphere of this special holiday.