Bangkok’s weather can pretty much be summed up in three seasons – hot, hotter and hottest. With summer kicking in, the heat is definitely cranking up. There are plenty of ways to cool off, but one of the best is simply chilling with a cold beer (some locals even throw in some ice!). However, Thailand's rich Buddhist traditions pose a bit of a challenge, with alcohol sales banned on important holy days. But there's good news – changes may be on the horizon, as the government considers amending the law to allow alcohol sales in designated areas during five key Buddhist holidays.
The ban on alcohol sales during Buddhist holidays has been in place for years, but it wasn’t until 2009 that things really got official. That’s when the government declared certain Buddhist holidays as ‘National No Alcohol Days,’ meaning you couldn’t buy a drink on those days and if you did, you could face fines or even a brief stint in jail. It’s all about respecting traditions, but it’s caused confusion for some visitors who never received the ‘dry day memo’. For locals, it’s a time to relax, especially as these holidays offer a break before going back into work.
And it seems like the government is finally hearing us out. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantarawongthong, who heads the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee, recently shared that they’re working on changing the law. The plan is to allow alcohol sales in certain places during five key Buddhist holidays – Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asalha Bucha, Khao Phansa and Ok Phansa. This change is part of the push for Thailand’s Amazing Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, meaning we could soon be toasting on these holidays with a drink in hand.
Even though the alcohol ban will remain for those five holidays, there will be some exceptions. You’ll still be able to enjoy a drink at places like international airports, popular tourist spots and hotels. Plus, big events that attract crowds will also be able to serve alcohol, as long as they ensure everything stays safe and responsible.
In more good news, the committee will be gathering public opinions via a website for 15 days before finalising the report and sending it to the Minister of Public Health. It will then be sent to the Prime Minister for approval and publication in the Royal Gazette. The goal is to get this all wrapped up in time for Visakha Bucha Day on May 11. So, when the time comes to share your thoughts, don’t miss the chance to check out the website and make your voice heard.