Thai Holidays

Thailand celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year, including traditional Thai festivals, religious observances, and national holidays. Here’s a list of some major Thai holidays that are observed across the country:

1. New Year’s Day (วันปีใหม่):
   • Date: January 1st
   • Details: Celebrates the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year with festivities and gatherings.
2. Songkran Festival (สงกรานต์):
   • Date: April 13th to 15th
   • Details: Thai New Year festival known for water fights and merit-making activities to cleanse and purify for the upcoming year.
3. Chakri Memorial Day (วันจักรี):
   • Date: April 6th
   • Details: Commemorates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty (Royal House of Thailand) and honours past kings.
4. Labour Day (วันแรงงาน):
   • Date: May 1st
   • Details: Recognizes the contributions of workers and labour organizations.
5. Coronation Day (วันฉัตรมงคล):
   • Date: May 5th
   • Details: Celebrates the coronation of the current King of Thailand.
6. Visakha Bucha Day (วันวิสาขบูชา):
   • Date: Usually in May (based on the lunar calendar)
   • Details: Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha.
7. Lha Bucha Day (ฬหบูชา):
   • Date: Usually in July (based on the lunar calendar)
   • Details: Marks the day of Buddha’s first sermon and the founding of Buddhism.
8. Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent) (เข้าพรรษา):
   • Date: Usually in July (based on the lunar calendar)
   • Details: Marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent when monks stay in temples for meditation and study.
9. Queen’s Birthday/Mother’s Day (วันแม่):
   • Date: August 12th
   • Details: Celebrates the birthday of Queen Sirikit, also observed as Mother’s Day in Thailand.
10. King’s Birthday/Father’s Day (วันพ่อ):
    • Date: December 5th
    • Details: Honours the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX), also observed as Father’s Day in Thailand.
11. Other Holidays:
    • Chinese New Year: Celebrated by the Thai-Chinese community, usually in January or February.
    • Loy Krathong Festival: Celebrated nationwide, usually in November, with floating lanterns and offerings on waterways.

Note:

• Public holidays may vary slightly each year based on lunar calendars and government declarations.
• Businesses, banks, and government offices are usually closed on public holidays, and transportation and services may be busier or limited.

These are some of the key holidays observed in Thailand, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the country. Planning around these holidays can enhance your experience and understanding of Thai culture.