iReport: Wet and wild Songkran memories

In 2010, the Thai new year celebrations were overshadowed by political instability and protests, and many traditional events were cancelled. So this year's Songkran holiday was particularly festive.

Starting on April 12, the entire kingdom engaged in a nationwide water fight that went on for several days -- in some cities even longer -- as folk piled into the back of pick-up trucks and gathered on roadsides to splash, drink, dance and smear powder on each other's faces. 

In addition to the water fights there were plenty of parties, parades and traditional Thai celebrations. 

It's a risky business taking your camera out on the streets during Songkran, but nevertheless we asked our brave CNNGo readers to send us their own Songkran photos and stories. Here are some of the highlights. 

Patong Beach, Phuket

"In Patong, the Songkran festival is celebrated with huge enthusiasm," says Dutch programmer Hans van de Peppel, who spent the Thai new year holiday in Phuket. 

"Small children delight in equipping themselves with water guns and spraying anyone who comes in their path -- no one is exempt!"

Judging by his photos, kids aren't the only ones who want to get in on the action.  

"The streets are full of people by the side of the road throwing water and having fun, with many of the Phuket population paying a visit," says iReporter Hans van de Peppel.

"[In Phuket] the Thai New Year's celebration started on April 12 in the evening," says Hans. "The next day the whole town was playing with water. It was a really special experience."

"At a time of year when the sun is at its hottest, the festival makes a welcome break and everyone is happy to be soaked," says Hans.

"The gentle sprinkling of water over family and friends has evolved to an excuse for a nationwide water party," says Hans of the Thai New Year.

Nobody is safe on the streets during Songkran, when Thais and foreigners alike arm themselves with water weapons.

"The festival starts in the early morning, when Thais visit temples, sprinkle water on Buddha images and then go home to have fun, eat and be merry," says Hans.

"I love to have my camera with me, and to report what is going on," says iReporter Hans. "It was a big risk, bringing the camera out there, but the result was great."

Click to page 2 for images of Songkran celebrations in Bangkok.