Myanmar: Thingyan Festival nationwide April 13-16

Officials will impose heightened security measures nationwide during the Thingyan Festival April 13-16, which culminates on the Burmese New Year April 17. The Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) government will hold official events nationwide, including in major cities like Yangon. Celebrations in Yangon typically take place at City Hall, Maha Bandula Park, Mya Kyun Thar Park, Thakhin Mya Park, and U Ottama Park. Large crowds are also expected at Shwe Dagon Pagoda during the festival. However, anti-military groups may boycott the official Thingyan celebrations, as well as launch attacks or stage demonstrations at event sites amid political tensions following the military coup in February 2021. The US Embassy has issued a security alert, warning of potential attacks by People's Defense Force (PDF) groups, who have threatened to target military-linked locations.

Police and military personnel will likely deploy to monitor event and gatherings sites due to security concerns. The programs and security protocols will likely prompt localized traffic disruptions. Increased congestion at transport hubs and on major highways nationwide is likely ahead of, during, and after the holiday. Public transport will likely be very crowded during the holiday period, particularly in Yangon. Police may erect checkpoints along major thoroughfares throughout the country. An increase in petty crimes, such as theft and pickpocketing, typically occurs during the holiday. Traffic accidents, often tied to alcohol consumption and illicit drug use, traditionally spike throughout the country during Thingyan.