Songkran, Water being poured on Buddha statue

Thailand has many public holiday’s throughout the year.  From government holiday’s to religious ones, there is something to honor or celebrate almost every month in Thailand.

The following list provides the major public holiday’s.  On some of the Buddhist holiday’s bars are closed and alcohol sale if forbidden.  If you are coming to Thailand and want to enjoy a beer or three, you’ll probably want to avoid those dates.   We include which of Thailand’s holiday’s don’t allow alcohol in the table as well.

Table Legend

Bars are usually open

Bars are usually closed, alcohol sales not allowed

New holiday or event, bars not likely to close but currently unknown

Notes

Bar closure information is based on what has happened in the past.  The government can make changes at anytime, even the day before.

Also bear in mind this is a list of the major holiday’s in Thailand.  There can be other regional or local bar closure / alcohol bans issued as well

HolidayDateNotesBars Open?
New Year’s DayJan 01The start of the Western New Year’s celebration in Thailand.
Chinese New YearJan 25
Makha BuchaFeb 8
Chakri DayApr 06
Songkran FestivalApr 13
Apr 14
Apr 15
The Songkran Festival in Thailand. While only three days, in places like Pattaya, the celebration can last a week.
Labor DayMay 01
Visakha Bucha DayMay 06
Royal Ploughing CeremonyMay 11
H.M. The Queen’s BirthdayJun 03
Asanha BuchaJul 05
Buddhist LentJul 06
H.M. The King’s Birthday – Rama XJul 28Birthday of the recently crowned King Vajiralongkorn – Rama X
H.M Queen Mother’s BirthdayAug 12Also Mother’s Day in Thailand
End of Buddhist LentOct 01Also known as Wan Awk Phansa
Passing of King Bhumibol – Rama IXOct 13A new holiday in Thailand after the passing of the King in 2016
Chulalongkorn Memorial DayOct 23
Loy KrathongNov 1Not technically a holiday, but a major national festival
Father’s Day in ThailandDec 07 (Oberserved)H.M. The King’s Birthday – King Bhumibol (Rama IX)
Thai Constitution DayDec 10
New Year’s EveDec 31