Songkran is the most important of Thai festivals and holidays, and it marks the start of the astrological New Year. The festival is celebrated in April over a period of four days. Songkran is closely associated with water. Traditionally, people pour water on elders and family members to bring good fortune. In the home, people clean images of Buddha with scented water. Nowadays Songkran has become a festival in which people splash strangers on the streets using a water gun, a bucket, or a hose. Fortunately it takes place during the hottest time of the year, so a cool shower is a welcome relief, Everyone gets drenched in water, all in the spirit of good fun, except for monks, who are spared from the showers.