Thailand prohibits alcohol on several days throughout the year, with the main days being Buddha days, which are public holidays.
When planning a holiday to Thailand or Asia, always research the dos and don’ts to avoid awkward situations or disrespect.
When Thailand prohibits alcohol, it surprises those who are new visitors to Thailand on holiday, as most people consider relaxing with an alcoholic drink to be part of their holiday plan. Despite the ban’s 24-hour duration, a lack of full explanation and notice triggers panic.
In Thailand, the Buddha’s days hold significant importance; therefore, failure to uphold and enforce the alcohol ban may result in a fine or suspension of the business license.
Thailand Prohibits Thailand prohibits alcohol from midnight to midnight the following day. You can serve alcohol after this time.
If visitors were aware, they could conveniently purchase alcohol before midnight and keep it chilled in the hotel or villa. This period also prohibits supermarkets or shops from selling alcohol, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.
As a helpful guide, listed below are the Buddha Days throughout the year when alcohol is prohibited in Thailand.
In addition to Buddha Days, Thailand Prohibits Alcohol 24 hours before a Government Election Day, starting at midnight.
Schools, hospitals, government offices, and petrol stations are all 500 meters away from each other and cannot sell alcohol.
Public Transport: Buses, Minivans, Ferries, and the Railway. The lunar calendar predicts the dates annually, so if these dates are problematic, you can check the accurate date closer to your travel dates.
Below is a list of Thailand’s annual alcohol prohibition dates:
- Maka Bucha Day (February/March): Is the third full moon of the year, roughly ending in February and starting in March. It’s a celebration of the gathering between Buddha and his first 1,250 disciples.
- Visakha Bucha Day (May/June): Is the 6th full moon of the year—roughly at the end of May and the start of June. It is the day that Buddha was born, found enlightenment, and passed.
- Asahna Bucha Day (July/early August): Is the 8th full moon of the year, roughly at the end of July and the start of August. On this day, Buddha delivered his first sermon and established the four noble truths.
- Khao Phansa day (or Wan Khao Phansa)(July/early August): Is the 8th full moon of the Luna calendar. We celebrate it the day after Asahna Bucha Day, commemorating the moment when the first monk entered the temple for three months.
- Awk Phansa day (October): Is the 11th full moon of the lunar calendar; it’s roughly around mid-October. This marks the conclusion of the Monk era.
For additional information or Thailand Travel Tips, click on the link here: Thailand Travel Tips by Samui Explorer.
