Bar Closures in Thailand can surprise travelers, but our expertly curated guide for 2026 ensures you’re well-prepared for your adventure in Bangkok and Pattaya. Specifically, on certain Buddhist religious days and select public holidays, a nationwide alcohol sales ban shuts down bars across the country. Consequently, our regularly updated Holiday Calendar & List of Bar Closures helps you plan your nightlife seamlessly, so you can avoid being caught outside a closed venue.
When bars close, the party doesn’t stop! Platforms like ThaiFriendly come alive with freelancers at various venues in Bangkok and Pattaya, offering plenty of opportunities to keep the good times rolling.
| Name of Holiday | Date in 2026 | Status |
| New Year’s Day | 1st Jan | Open |
| Chinese New Year | 17th Feb | Open |
| Magha Puja / Makha Bucha | 3rd Mar | Closed |
| Chakri Day | 6th Apr | Open |
| Songkran | 13-14-15 Apr | Open |
| Thailand Labor Day | 1st May | Open |
| Royal Ploughing Ceremony | 13th May | Open |
| Visakha Bucha / Vesak Day | 1st May | Closed |
| H.M. Queen’s Birthday | 3rd Jun | Open |
| Asahna Puja Day | 1st July | Closed |
| Wan Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent Day) | 2nd July | Closed |
| H.M. The King’s Birthday (Rama X) | 28th July | Open |
| H.M. Queen Dowager’s Birthday | 12th Aug | Open |
| Wan Awk Phansa (Buddhist Lent Day) | 1st Nov | Closed |
| The Passing of Rama IX | 13th Oct | Open |
| Thod Kathin (Kathina) | 25th Oct | Open |
| Chulalongkorn Memorial Day | 23rd Oct | Open |
| Loy Krathong | 15th Nov | Open |
| H.M. The King’s Birthday (Rama IX) | 5th Dec | Open |
| Thai Constitution Day | 10th Dec | Open |
| New Years’ Eve | 31st Dec | Open |
Make the most of your trip by exploring our Bangkok Bucket List for unforgettable experiences!
Bar Closures in Thailand – Significant Events & Festivals
- New Year’s Day – Kick off 2026 with vibrant celebrations across Thailand, marking the Western New Year.
- Songkran Festival – Thailand’s iconic water festival, officially three days, but in Pattaya, the festivities can splash on for a week.
- H.M. The King’s Birthday – Rama X – Celebrate King Vajiralongkorn’s birthday, a national event filled with pride.
- H.M. Queen Dowager’s Birthday – Honor Queen Suthida’s birthday, a day of reverence and festivity.
- H.M. The Queen’s Birthday – Coincides with Mother’s Day, a heartfelt celebration across Thailand.
- The Passing of Rama IX – A solemn day commemorating the late King Bhumibol’s passing in 2016.
- End of Buddhist Lent – Marks the conclusion of the Buddhist Lent with spiritual observances.
- Loy Krathong – A stunning festival where candlelit floats illuminate rivers, creating magical nights.
- H.M. The King’s Birthday (Rama IX) – Father’ Day – Also Father’s Day, celebrating the legacy of King Bhumibol.
Will the Nauru massage parlours be closed on 17th July 2019, I arrive in BKK that day
@Chris – Typically alcohol isn’t allowed on the Buddhist holidays. As such, I don’t think the Massage Shops should be affected.
This is great, thanks Rich. Question. A holiday officially ends at midnight, and most Go-Go bars are open later normally, even till 4:00 a.m.
So for example on July 21st, 7-Eleven starts alcohol sales at midnight again on the 22nd. Will Go-go bars and other bars in Pattaya and Bangkok also open at midnight until their usual closing time of say 3:00 a.m. or 4:00 a.m.?