Thailand Public Holiday 2024: A Comprehensive Guide To Plan Your Trip

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By ReddotExplorer

Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles", is not only famous for its rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine but also for its numerous public holidays. These holidays, deeply rooted in history and tradition, offer a glimpse into the country's vibrant culture and values.

This article provides a detailed overview of the official public holidays in Thailand for 2024, shedding light on their significance and the unique ways they are celebrated.

Thailand Public Holiday Overview

This table provides a concise overview of all the official public holidays in Thailand for the year 2024.

Date Day Public Holiday
01 Jan Mon New Year's Day
02 Jan Tue New Year Holiday
10 Feb Sat Chinese New Year*
24 Feb Sat Makha Bucha Day
26 Feb Mon Makha Bucha Holiday
06 Apr Sat Chakri Day
08 Apr Mon Chakri Day Holiday
10 Apr Wed End of Ramadan*
13-16 Apr Sat-Tue Songkran Festival
01 May Wed Labour Day*
04 May Sat Coronation of King Vajiralongkorn
06 May Mon Coronation of King Vajiralongkorn Holiday
06 May Mon Royal Ploughing Ceremony*
22 May Wed Visakha Bucha Day
03 Jun Mon Queen Suthida's Birthday
20 Jul Sat Asahna Bucha Day
21 Jul Sun Khao Phansa Day*
22 Jul Mon Asahna Bucha Day Holiday
23 Jul Tue Khao Phansa Holiday*
28 Jul Sun King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday
29 Jul Mon King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday Holiday
12 Aug Mon Her Majesty the Queen Mother's Birthday
13 Oct Sun Passing of His Majesty the Late King
14 Oct Mon Passing of His Majesty the Late King Holiday
23 Oct Wed Chulalongkorn Memorial Day
05 Dec Thu His Majesty the Late King's Birthday
10 Dec Tue Constitution Day
25 Dec Wed Christmas Day*
31 Dec Tue New Year's Eve

*Take note:

  • Chinese New Year, Christmas Day, and End of Ramadan are observed in Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and Satun provinces only.
  • Labour Day is observed by all sectors except the Government sector.
  • Royal Ploughing Ceremony and Khao Phansa Day are observed by the Government sector only.
❤️ Pro Tip: Thailand is always a great destination to travel to from Singapore. If you are planning for a getaway, do check if Thailand public holiday coincides with your planned dates before booking your flight!

😉 Read on for more information:

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Travel To Thailand From Singapore [Official Guide & Cheap Tickets]

Thailand Travel Restrictions: Requirement Guide

Thailand Public Holiday - New Year's Day

01 - 02 January (Monday - Tuesday)

New Year's Day in Thailand is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy. It marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is a time for renewal and fresh starts. Families come together to celebrate with special meals, prayers, and various festivities. Fireworks light up the night sky, and many people visit temples to make merit for the year ahead.

The New Year Holiday (which is on the second day) is an extension of the New Year's Day celebrations. It provides an opportunity for Thais to recover from the festivities of the previous day and to spend more quality time with family and friends. Many use this day to visit temples, offer alms to monks, and engage in traditional games and activities.

Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok, which is beautifully lit up during the New Year celebrations.

Thailand Public Holiday - Chinese New Year

10 February (Saturday)

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated predominantly in certain provinces of Thailand. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar. The day is filled with dragon dances, lion dances, and the giving of red envelopes (ang pao) which symbolize good luck. Families reunite, and traditional foods are prepared to mark the occasion.

Visit Yaowarat Road in Bangkok, the heart of the city's Chinatown, for an authentic Chinese New Year experience.

Thailand Public Holiday - Makha Bucha Day

24 - 26 February (Saturday - Monday)

Makha Bucha Day is a significant Buddhist holiday in Thailand. It commemorates the day when 1,250 monks gathered spontaneously to be ordained by the Buddha. Devotees visit temples to make merit, participate in candlelight processions, and listen to sermons. It's a day of reflection and spiritual renewal.

The following Monday is an observed holiday that follows Makha Bucha Day. It provides an extended opportunity for Thais to engage in religious activities, especially if the main day falls on a weekend. Temples are filled with devotees participating in various ceremonies and rituals.

Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai, known for its grand Makha Bucha Day celebrations and processions. Alternatively, you can visit Wat Arun in Bangkok, a stunning temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, which hosts special events during this period.

Thailand Public Holiday - Chakri Day

06 - 08 April (Saturday - Monday)

Chakri Day commemorates the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty by King Rama I in 1782. It's a day of national pride, where Thais pay respect to all the kings of the Chakri Dynasty for their contributions to the nation. Ceremonies are held at the Royal Grand Palace, and many Thais visit the statues of the kings to lay flowers and offer prayers.

The following Monday is an observed day following Chakri Day, especially when the main day falls on a weekend. It provides Thais with an extended opportunity to participate in ceremonies and pay their respects to the Chakri Dynasty. Schools and government offices are closed, and many people use this day for family gatherings.

Visit the King Rama I Monument, dedicated to the founder of the Chakri Dynasty.

Thailand Public Holiday - End of Ramadan

10 April (Wednesday)

End of Ramadan, known as Eid al-Fitr, is a significant Muslim holiday celebrated in the southern provinces of Thailand. It marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Families come together to celebrate with special meals, prayers, and giving of gifts. It's a time of joy, gratitude, and community bonding.

Visit the Pattani Central Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Thailand, where special prayers are held.

Thailand Public Holiday - Songkran Festival

13-16 April (Saturday - Tuesday)

Songkran is Thailand's traditional New Year and is famously known as the water festival. The throwing of water symbolizes the washing away of sins and bad luck. It's a time of joy, family reunions, and temple visits. Traditional rituals, such as pouring water on Buddha statues and the elderly, are also observed.

Join the Songkran festival celebrations on Khao San Road in Bangkok or Thapae Gate in Chiang Mai for an unforgettable water fight experience.

💯 Pro Tip: Songkran festival is a very popular event celebrated in different parts of Thailand. It is a great time to travel to places like Phuket or Bangkok to join in this celebration and tour about.

😄 Read on:

💖 Places To Go In Bangkok: Exploring The Vibrant Capital Of Thailand

💖 Travelling In Phuket: Discover The Allure Of Thailand's Idyllic Island

Thailand Public Holiday - Labour Day

01 May (Wednesday)

Labour Day is a day to honor and appreciate the workforce of Thailand. Parades and events are organized by labor unions, and speeches are made to highlight workers' rights and issues. Note that this day is observed by all sectors except the Government sector.

Visit Lumphini Park in Bangkok, where many gatherings and events take place on this day.

Thailand Public Holiday - Coronation of King Vajiralongkorn

04 - 06 May (Saturday - Monday)

These days celebrate the coronation of the current monarch, King Vajiralongkorn. It's a time of national pride, reverence, and celebration. Official ceremonies are held, and the streets are adorned with decorations and portraits of the king.

Thailand Public Holiday - Royal Ploughing Ceremony

06 May (Monday)

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient royal rite held in Bangkok to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing season. The ceremony seeks to bless the country's farmers and ensure a fruitful harvest. It's a blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions and is observed by the Government sector.

Sanam Luang, the open field in front of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where the ceremony takes place.

Thailand Public Holiday - Visakha Bucha Day

22 May (Wednesday)

Visakha Bucha Day is one of the most significant Buddhist holidays in Thailand. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Devotees visit temples to make merit, participate in candlelight processions, and listen to sermons. It's a day of reflection, meditation, and spiritual renewal.

Wat Pho in Bangkok, known for its grand Visakha Bucha Day celebrations and the stunning Reclining Buddha statue.

Thailand Public Holiday - Queen Suthida's Birthday

03 June (Monday)

Queen Suthida's Birthday is a national holiday in Thailand, celebrating the birthday of the current queen consort. The day is marked by various ceremonies and public displays of loyalty and affection towards the queen. Buildings and streets are adorned with lights and portraits of Queen Suthida, reflecting the nation's love and respect for her.

Thailand Public Holiday - Asahna Bucha Day

20 July (Saturday)

Asahna Bucha Day is a significant Buddhist holiday that commemorates the Buddha's first sermon. Temples across Thailand are filled with devotees who participate in candlelit processions, make merit, and listen to sermons. It's a day of deep spiritual significance, reflection, and religious observance.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, a revered temple known for its grand Asahna Bucha Day celebrations.

Thailand Public Holiday - Khao Phansa Day & Khao Phansa Holiday

21 - 23 July (Sunday - Tuesday)

Khao Phansa Day marks the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, a three-month period where monks traditionally stay in their monasteries to meditate and study. The following day, Khao Phansa Holiday, provides an extended opportunity for religious observances. Devotees offer candles, robes, and other necessities to monks, symbolizing support and making merit.

Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand, famous for its Candle Festival held during Khao Phansa.

Thailand Public Holiday - King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

28 - 29 July (Sunday - Monday)

These days celebrate the birthday of King Vajiralongkorn, the current monarch of Thailand. The nation comes together to show respect, loyalty, and affection towards the king. Official ceremonies, public gatherings, and various events are organized to mark the occasion.

Thailand Public Holiday - Her Majesty the Queen Mother's Birthday

12 August (Monday)

This day celebrates the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand. It's also observed as Mother's Day in Thailand. The nation pays tribute to her contributions and the love she has shown to the Thai people. Ceremonies, charitable events, and public gatherings are organized in her honor.

The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles in Bangkok, which showcases the queen's contributions to Thai textiles and fashion.

Thailand Public Holiday - Passing of His Majesty the Late King

13 -14 October (Sunday - Monday)

These days commemorate the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history. The nation mourns and remembers his contributions, guidance, and the love he had for the Thai people. Memorial services, prayers, and various events are held in his honor.

Thailand Public Holiday - Chulalongkorn Memorial Day

23 October (Wednesday)

Chulalongkorn Day commemorates the passing of King Chulalongkorn, also known as King Rama V. He is remembered for his modernization reforms and efforts to prevent colonization. Thais pay their respects by laying flowers at his statue in Bangkok and participating in various ceremonies.

The Equestrian Statue of King Chulalongkorn in Bangkok, a significant site where many Thais gather to pay their respects.

Thailand Public Holiday - His Majesty the Late King's Birthday

05 December (Thursday)

This day celebrates the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. It's a time of remembrance and gratitude for his guidance, wisdom, and dedication to the Thai people. The nation comes together with ceremonies, prayers, and various events to honor his legacy.

The Bhumibol Bridge in Bangkok, also known as the Industrial Ring Road Bridge, named in honor of King Bhumibol and offering stunning views of the Chao Phraya River.

Thailand Public Holiday - Constitution Day

10 December (Tuesday)

Constitution Day marks the day Thailand received its first permanent constitution in 1932. It's a day to reflect on the nation's journey towards democracy and the importance of the rule of law. Various events and educational programs are organized to raise awareness about the constitution and its significance.

The Democracy Monument in Bangkok, a symbolic structure representing the 1932 Constitution.

Thailand Public Holiday - Christmas Day

25 December (Wednesday)

Christmas Day, though not a traditional Thai holiday, is celebrated mainly in the southern provinces. It's a day of joy, giving, and community celebrations. Churches hold special services, and many businesses and homes are decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments.

Visit the Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok for a traditional Christmas Mass and to witness the festive decorations.

Thailand Public Holiday - New Year's Eve

31 December (Tuesday)

New Year's Eve in Thailand is a grand affair, marking the end of the year and the anticipation of new beginnings. Fireworks displays, countdown parties, and various events are organized across the country. Families and friends come together to celebrate and welcome the New Year.

FAQs: Thailand Public Holiday

  • How many official public holidays does Thailand have in 2024?

    Thailand has 21 official public holidays in 2024.
  • Are public holidays in Thailand based on the Gregorian calendar?

    While many of Thailand's public holidays are based on the Gregorian calendar, some are determined by the lunar calendar, such as Chinese New Year and certain Buddhist festivals.
  • Do businesses and schools close on public holidays in Thailand?

    Most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed on public holidays. However, many shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions remain open.
  • Is Songkran the Thai New Year?

    Songkran is celebrated as the Thai New Year. It is a water festival where people splash water on each other, symbolizing purification and the washing away of sins and bad luck.
  • What is the significance of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony?

    The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient royal rite held to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing season. It seeks to bless the country's farmers and ensure a fruitful harvest.

Thailand Public Holiday Conclusion

Understanding the public holidays of Thailand offers a deeper insight into the nation's heart and soul. These holidays, celebrated with fervor and joy, reflect the country's rich tapestry of history, culture, and religious beliefs.

Whether you're planning a visit or simply wish to immerse yourself in Thai traditions from afar, this guide to each Thailand public holiday 2024 will serve as a window into the nation's celebratory spirit.

😉 Read on for public holidays in other countries that you might want to take a trip to!

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