YANGON, March 24 (Xinhua) -- This year's Thingyan water festival in Myanmar will be celebrated in a more traditional way, U Phyo Min Thein, Chief Minister of Yangon region said on Friday.
Among Myanmar's 12 seasonal festivals throughout the year, the Thingyan water festival represents the grandest which is believed to bring peace and prosperity to everyone.
In recent years, with the influence of western culture, Thingyan festival had been celebrated in a modern way with stage shows, electronic music and modern dancing.
This year, traditional dance performances and Thingyan music will be featured during the festival instead.
The regional government will also impose stronger security measures across the region.
The Thingyan water festival will run on April 12 to 15, and the Myanmar new year will fall on April 16.
All government offices, private businesses and banks will be closed for five days during the festival.