Liquor restrictions eased on Buddhist holidays in select locations, effective from this weekend.
Thai Tourism Boost: Alcohol Sales on Buddhist Holidays Begins!
Thailand's tourism industry is gearing up as the new rule allowing alcohol sales on five Buddhist holidays takes effect! Starting May 6th, you can enjoy a tipple at various locations like:
- International airports
- Nightlife venues
- Hotels
- Places hosting national or international events
The change in policy, announced by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, covers these holy days:
- Visaka Bucha
- Makha Bucha
- Asanha Bucha
- The first and last days of Buddhist Lent
According to government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub, this modification aligns with the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025" campaign, benefiting the businesses in the industry.
Visaka Bucha this year is on May 11th, and Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, also the committee chairman, has promised to commence sales of alcoholic drinks in select spots on that day.
Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a People's Party MP advocating for the liberalization of the alcoholic beverage industry in Thailand, has some advice for drinkers: "Don't get carried away! Roadside food stalls, convenience stores, restaurants, and supermarkets are not included in the new announcement; they still cannot sell alcohol." Taopiphop also urged caution to avoid misunderstandings that could lead to legal trouble.
In 2021, Thailand upheld stringent bans on alcohol sales during these five Buddhist holidays to respect religious customs. However, by 2025, the restrictions have eased but are strictly limited to specific tourist-friendly locations that cater to events, furthering the balance between cultural respect and economic promotion.
Enjoying a change in lifestyle, tourists can now include alcohol in their travel experiences on various Thai holidays, with sales allowed at international airports, nightlife venues, hotels, and places hosting national or international events, starting from May 6th. This modification is part of the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025" campaign, aimed at supporting businesses in the tourism industry, and includes the observance of Visaka Bucha, Makha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, the first and last days of Buddhist Lent. However, it's important to note that roadside food stalls, convenience stores, restaurants, and supermarkets are still prohibited from selling alcohol, as the new rule is strictly limited to tourist-friendly locations.
