Songkran floods Chiang Mai‘s old town streets April 13-15, 2027 – reserve accommodations early.
Thailand‘s public holidays follow the Buddhist lunar calendar plus fixed royal commemorations. In 2027, expect about a dozen key holidays reshaping travel rhythms. Songkran (April 13-15) and Loy Krathong (November 13-14) dominate weeks of activity and crowds. These festivals create distinct city experiences – Chiang Mai’s Songkran feels very different from Bangkok’s Khao San Road. Booking early for accommodations and transport during these periods is essential to avoid disruptions.
Quick answer
Key 2027 holidays: Songkran (Apr 13-15, avoid crowds), Makha Bucha (Feb 21, chase ceremonies), Loy Krathong (Nov 13-14, chase lantern festivals), National Day (Dec 5, neutral).
Key takeaways
- Book Chiang Mai lodging early for Songkran April 13-15, 2027.
- Plan temple visits around Makha Bucha on February 21, 2027.
- Reserve transport well before Loy Krathong November 13-14, 2027 in northern cities.
- Expect limited hours on National Day December 5, 2027; plan daytime activities.
- Avoid Bangkok’s Khao San Road during Songkran to skip overwhelming crowds.
- Carry cash during Loy Krathong for street vendors and floating offerings.
- Check temple market schedules around Asanha Bucha July 24, 2027 for local crafts.
- Confirm opening hours for May 15 Visakha Bucha, 2027; some services close.
Thailand Holiday Festival Locations
Click any pin to see which city is highlighted on the map.
Public Holiday Calendar Thailand 2027
| Date | Holiday | Type | Shops and offices | For travellers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year (วันขึ้นปีใหม่) | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| * | Makha Bucha (วันมาฆบูชา) | Buddhist | Reduced hours | Worth timing a trip for |
| Chakri | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| Songkran (สงกรานต์) | Cultural | Closed | Busy, book early | |
| Songkran (สงกรานต์) | Cultural | Closed | Busy, book early | |
| Songkran (สงกรานต์) | Cultural | Closed | Busy, book early | |
| Labour (วันแรงงาน) | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| Coronation | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| * | Visakha Bucha (วันวิสาขบูชา) | Buddhist | Reduced hours | Worth timing a trip for |
| Queen Suthida’s Birthday | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| * | Asanha Bucha (วันอาสาฬหบูชา) | Buddhist | Reduced hours | Worth timing a trip for |
| King’s Birthday | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| Queen Mother’s Birthday (วันเฉลิมพระชนมพรรษา สมเด็จพระนางเจ้าสิริกิติ์) | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| King Bhumibol Memorial (วันคล้ายวันสวรรคต ร.9) | Public holiday | Reduced hours | Little effect | |
| Chulalongkorn | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| * | Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) | Cultural | Reduced hours | Worth timing a trip for |
| * | Yi Peng (ยี่เพ็ง) | Cultural | Reduced hours | Worth timing a trip for |
| King Bhumibol Birthday (วันพ่อแห่งชาติ) | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect | |
| Constitution (วันรัฐธรรมนูญ) | Public holiday | Reduced hours | Little effect | |
| * | Christmas Day (คริสต์มาส) | Christian | Business as usual | Little effect |
| New Year’s Eve | Public holiday | Closed | Little effect |
* Expected date. Lunar and religious holidays are confirmed shortly beforehand and can shift by a day. The government has not yet published its official 2027 list, so a date can still move.
Why Thailand’s Holidays Shape Your Travel Plans
Thailand’s Buddhist and cultural holidays shift daily life, transport, and business hours dramatically. Knowing the impact of each festival lets you plan where to be and when to avoid disruptions.
- Songkran (April 13 – 15, 2027) shuts down most businesses and public transport for water festival celebrations – book accommodations 6+ weeks early and expect heavy traffic delays.
- Loy Krathong and Yi Peng (November 13 – 14, 2027) bring temple lantern releases and river rituals that fill northern cities like Chiang Mai with crowds – reserve hotels near event sites well in advance.
- Visakha Bucha (May 15, 2027) limits temple and market hours as merit-making ceremonies dominate mornings – plan sightseeing early and expect quieter afternoons.
- Makha Bucha (February 21, 2027) triggers early temple closures and local processions – arrange transport before dusk and avoid late-night travel in temple districts.
- Asanha Bucha (July 24, 2027) marks the start of Buddhist Lent with restricted alcohol sales and limited nightlife – schedule evening plans accordingly and expect fewer open bars and restaurants.
- National holidays like King Bhumibol’s Birthday (December 5, 2027) close government offices and reduce public transport frequency – plan errands and airport transfers around these closures.
Songkran Week
The Thai New Year water festival floods streets with celebrations, temple merit-making, and nationwide closures. Expect widespread water fights and temple ceremonies.
For travelers: Book hotels at least 6 weeks ahead in major cities. Public transport runs irregularly, and many restaurants close or limit hours. Carry waterproof gear and avoid airport taxis, which surge in price.
Visakha Bucha Period
This full-moon Buddhist holiday features morning alms rounds and temple ceremonies, with many temples closing early in the day.
For travelers: Plan temple visits for early morning hours. Expect limited shopping and dining options in temple neighborhoods after noon. Transport remains normal but quieter in religious districts.
Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festival
Lantern releases and floating offerings light up northern cities, especially Chiang Mai, alongside temple rituals and cultural markets.
For travelers: Reserve accommodations near riverfronts or old towns weeks in advance. Expect heavy crowds and traffic congestion in festival zones. Book transport early and carry cash for street vendors.
Mid-Year Buddhist Lent
Asanha Bucha marks the start of Buddhist Lent, with merit-making and temple observances limiting nightlife and alcohol sales.
For travelers: Adjust evening plans as bars and clubs may close early or not open. Book transport ahead for temple visits and expect quieter city nights. Plan meals around limited restaurant hours.
Major Holidays in Thailand, Explained
Songkran
13-15 April
Avoid
The streets flood with water fights, soaked revelers, and loud celebrations that transform cities into massive outdoor parties. This is Thailand’s New Year, marked by temple visits for merit-making and family reunions, but also by relentless water splashing that can drench you in minutes. Temples require respectful dress and quiet during ceremonies, contrasting sharply with the wild street scenes. Expect closed businesses and limited public transport. Book accommodation early and prepare for elevated taxi prices and waterproof gear; this holiday overwhelms normal logistics and demands full immersion or avoidance.
| Best place to be | Bangkok’s Khao San Road offers intense street water fights mixed with nearby Wat Pho’s temple ceremonies, balancing chaos and culture. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya’s city center hosts traditional Songkran processions, giving a more authentic, less touristy experience with historic temple backdrops. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid airport taxis in Bangkok, which surge to 800 THB (~$22) for rides that usually cost 200 THB (~$6). The central business district shuts down almost entirely, making it tough to get around. |
| Transport | Public transport runs irregularly, with many bus routes reduced or rerouted. Taxis and rideshares surge in price and availability drops sharply during peak hours. |
| Accommodation | Hotels in major cities fill up at least six weeks ahead, with rates jumping 30 – 50%. Last-minute bookings become expensive or impossible. |
Visakha Bucha
15 May (expected)
Chase it
Streets quiet down early as monks begin dawn alms rounds and temple ceremonies dominate the day. You’ll witness candlelit processions and strict reverence around Buddhist sites, with temples requiring covered shoulders and respectful behavior. Shops and restaurants near major temples close or limit hours after noon, creating a serene but restricted environment. This full-moon holiday centers on merit-making and reflection rather than festivities, making it ideal for culturally focused travelers planning morning visits.
| Best place to be | Bangkok’s Wat Saket and Wat Arun offer accessible, well-organized ceremonies, while Chiang Mai’s temples host equally striking processions with fewer crowds. Early morning at these temples reveals the holiday’s spiritual core. |
| Transport | Traffic remains normal but quieter near temple districts, with some road closures for evening processions. Public transport runs on schedule. |
| Accommodation | No surge in prices, but book near temples for early access. Expect some restaurants to close early around temple neighborhoods. |
Asanha Bucha
24 July (expected)
Chase it
Temples fill with worshippers during the day for merit-making, marking the start of Buddhist Lent. Nightlife drops sharply as bars and clubs close early or remain shuttered. Alcohol sales are restricted, and many restaurants adjust hours. This quiet, contemplative day centers on temple visits and respectful dress codes. Travelers should plan daytime activities around temples and expect an early night, especially in cities with large Buddhist populations.
| Best place to be | Bangkok’s Wat Pho hosts notable ceremonies, while Chiang Mai’s temples offer peaceful surroundings for observant travelers. Both cities provide easy access to evening merit-making events. |
| Transport | Evening transport options reduce as nightlife dims; daytime travel is normal. Book rides ahead for temple visits to avoid last-minute shortages. |
| Accommodation | No major price changes, but quieter city nights can mean limited food options after 8:00 PM in central areas. |
Loy Krathong
13 November (expected)
Chase it
Rivers and canals glow with floating baskets as locals and travelers release krathongs to honor water spirits. Streets buzz with cultural markets, traditional dance, and temple ceremonies requiring respectful dress. This evening event combines visual spectacle with spiritual reverence and ends with fireworks. Expect crowded riverfronts and lively celebrations lasting into the night. Plan ahead to secure a good spot and carry cash for street vendors.
| Best place to be | Sukhothai’s historical park offers serene river views and traditional ceremonies, while Chiang Mai’s old town prepares for the following day’s Yi Peng lantern release, creating a layered festival experience. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid overcrowded riverfronts in Bangkok’s central districts where traffic jams and crowds can spoil the mood. |
| Transport | Expect heavy traffic near riverfronts and festival zones. Public transport runs but fills quickly; book rides early and allow extra travel time. |
| Accommodation | Hotels near rivers and old towns fill weeks in advance with rates rising 20 – 40%. Early booking is essential. |
Yi Peng
14 November (expected)
Chase it
Thousands of lanterns lift into the night sky, creating a visually striking scene unique to northern Thailand. The event includes temple ceremonies, cultural performances, and street markets with traditional foods. Dress modestly for temple visits, and be prepared for crowds and traffic congestion in festival zones. This is a top pick for travelers seeking a deep cultural and spiritual spectacle that blends Buddhist ritual with local tradition.
| Best place to be | Chiang Mai’s old town and Mae Jo University area provide the most iconic lantern releases and cultural programming, unmatched elsewhere in Thailand. |
| Transport | Road closures and heavy congestion occur around old town; taxis and rideshares become scarce. Book transport early and expect delays. |
| Accommodation | Rooms near festival centers sell out quickly with premium pricing; book at least 6 weeks ahead. |
Makha Bucha
21 February (expected)
Chase it
Temples fill with worshippers at dawn for alms rounds and candlelight processions, creating a solemn yet accessible atmosphere. Expect respectful crowds observing strict dress codes inside temples. Shops and restaurants near key temples may close or reduce hours by afternoon. This day invites quiet reflection rather than festivities, making early temple visits the best way to engage with local spiritual life.
| Best place to be | Bangkok’s Wat Saket and Wat Benchamabophit offer well-managed ceremonies with fewer tourists. Early morning is prime for joining locals on alms rounds. |
| Transport | Normal public transport with slight traffic slowdowns near large temples during processions. |
| Accommodation | No price surges, but staying near temples improves access to morning ceremonies. |
How Thailand’s 2027 Holiday Calendar Shapes Your Travel
Thailand’s 2027 holiday rhythm revolves around Buddhist lunar festivals and fixed royal commemorations that reshape transport, closures, and crowds. Planning around Songkran and Loy Krathong unlocks deeper local access or helps you sidestep major disruptions.
Moderate
January travel flows smoothly with only New Year’s Day on January 1, which is a neutral holiday with minimal closures. Expect standard business hours and transport availability. This month offers easy independent travel without festival-driven crowds or disruptions.
Moderate
Closures: Some temples and religious sites reduce hours on Makha Bucha.
Book at least 2 – 3 weeks ahead if arriving near Makha Bucha on February 21, as temple visits surge and some religious sites limit hours. Public transport remains reliable but expect local pilgrim crowds near key temples. Staying in neighborhoods like Banglamphu in Bangkok or the old town of Chiang Mai puts you close to ceremonies without transport headaches.
Low season
March is a quiet month with no major holidays disrupting schedules or transport. This offers a low-crowd window for flexible itineraries. Booking last minute is safe, and local services operate normally.
Peak season
Closures: Most businesses and government offices close for Songkran April 13 – 15.
Avoid traveling during Songkran (April 13-15) unless you want to embrace the chaos. Expect full closures, jammed transport, and massive crowds, especially in Bangkok’s Khao San Road and Chiang Mai’s old city. Book flights and accommodation at least 2 months in advance. If you chase Songkran, plan for closed banks and limited taxi availability.
High season
Closures: Labor Day closures are widespread; Visakha Bucha limits temple hours.
May requires advance booking for Visakha Bucha on May 15, a major Buddhist day with limited temple hours and pilgrim surges around sacred sites. Labor Day on May 1 causes government offices and many shops to close. Plan transport early and expect busier than usual crowds near temples in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Low season
June is a low-ceremony month with no major holidays, making it ideal for flexible travel and last-minute bookings. Services and transport run on normal schedules without festival-related crowds.
Moderate
Closures: Temples reduce hours during Asanha Bucha.
Asanha Bucha on July 24 draws Buddhist pilgrims, especially to major temples in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Expect limited temple hours and some transport congestion near pilgrimage sites. Book accommodation near temple areas two weeks early to secure options.
Moderate
Closures: Government offices and many businesses close on August 12.
Queen Sirikit’s Birthday on August 12 leads to closures of government offices and many shops, but tourist sites and restaurants mostly stay open. Travel flows smoothly otherwise. Book transport and accommodation with standard lead times.
Low season
September features no public holidays impacting travel logistics. This month offers quiet streets and normal service hours, ideal for spontaneous trips and flexible planning.
Moderate
Closures: Some businesses reduce hours on October 13.
King Bhumibol Memorial Day on October 13 brings limited business hours and respectful observances, especially in Bangkok. Transport runs normally but expect some quiet streets near memorial events. Booking can be last minute but expect slightly reduced commercial activity.
High season
Closures: Temples and some businesses limit hours during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng.
November is a top travel month for Buddhist festivals Loy Krathong (Nov 13) and Yi Peng (Nov 14). Expect temple hours to shorten and transport near lantern events to be crowded. Book accommodation in Chiang Mai or Bangkok at least 3 weeks in advance. This is the month to position yourself near rivers or temple grounds for the best access.
Moderate
Closures: Government offices close Dec 5; some businesses limit hours Dec 10; Christmas is normal.
December sees closures on King Bhumibol Birthday/National Day (Dec 5) and limited hours on Constitution Day (Dec 10). Christmas Day runs without special closures. Expect moderate crowds and steady transport. Book hotels near major city centers early if traveling around December 5.
Key Festival Cities in Thailand
Thailand’s Buddhist calendar shapes where to be for major festivals, each city offering distinct temple rituals and local traditions tied to its signature holiday.
Bangkok
Songkran · April 13-15, 2027
Chiang Mai
Yi Peng · expected November 14, 2027
Phuket
Vegetarian Festival · October 17-25, 2027
Sukhothai
Loy Krathong · expected November 13, 2027
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Songkran procession · April 13-15, 2027
Festival Etiquette for Thailand’s Buddhist Holidays
Respecting local customs during Thailand’s festivals enhances your experience and shows reverence for sacred traditions tied to the Buddhist calendar.
Temple Entry During Buddhist Festivals
Do
- Remove shoes before entering temple buildings
- Cover shoulders and knees with modest clothing
- Speak softly and avoid loud behavior inside temple grounds
- Make a small donation at the temple donation box
Don’t
- Do not point your feet toward Buddha statues or monks
- Avoid touching monks, especially if you are female
- Do not take photos in restricted areas or during private rituals
- Refrain from eating or drinking inside temple buildings
Participating in Merit-Making
Do
- Offer food or alms to monks in the morning
- Light incense and candles respectfully at temple altars
- Join communal chanting or prayer sessions quietly
- Wear white clothing on Buddhist fasting days if joining ceremonies
Don’t
- Do not interrupt monks during chanting or meditation
- Avoid loud conversations or phone use near prayer areas
- Never touch sacred objects without permission
- Do not walk in front of seated monks or Buddha images
Water Festival (Songkran) Behavior
Do
- Use clean water and avoid throwing it directly at faces or elders
- Respect temple areas by not splashing water inside temple compounds
- Join in water blessings at temples for a spiritual experience
- Carry waterproof bags for valuables during street celebrations
Don’t
- Do not use ice or dirty water during water fights
- Avoid water fights near traffic or on motorcycles
- Do not disrespect monks or elders with water splashes
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption during public festivities
Buddhist Fasting and Observance Days
Do
- Observe silence and mindfulness in temple areas
- Wear white or muted colors if attending fasting day ceremonies
- Participate in meditation or listening to Dharma talks if invited
- Respect local fasting rules by not eating in public during daylight
Don’t
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol near temples on fasting days
- Avoid loud music or disruptive behavior in religious zones
- Do not bring pets or animals into temple grounds
- Avoid public displays of affection during solemn observances
Festivals Worth the Extra Planning
These holidays offer immersive spiritual ceremonies and vibrant local traditions. Plan to be in the right city at the right time to experience them fully.
Songkran Day 1
Songkran Day 2
Loy Krathong
Visakha Bucha Day
Find tours for these festivals
Book guided experiences around Thailand’s biggest celebrations.
Avoid These Dates to Sidestep Disruptions and Crowds
These holidays and periods cause major closures or travel headaches. Plan around them to keep your itinerary smooth and avoid service shutdowns.
New Year’s Day
Expect heavy traffic jams and blackout of many government offices and banks. Tourist hotspots get crowded with locals on holiday.
Songkran Day 3
Transport gridlock hits major cities as locals return home or travel. Many shops and offices close or operate on reduced hours.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Central Bangkok sees road closures and heavy police presence around Sanam Luang. Public transport reroutes cause delays.
Loy Krathong Day (Bangkok)
Crowds overwhelm riverside areas and public transport; hotel prices spike sharply in central Bangkok.
What to Know Before You Go
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Money | Expect limited ATM availability and longer bank processing times during major festivals like Songkran and Loy Krathong. Carry cash, especially in markets and temple areas, as card terminals may be offline. |
| Transport | Book flights and long-distance trains at least 2-3 months ahead for Songkran and Loy Krathong. Bangkok and Chiang Mai face severe traffic jams during these festivals; use public transit or walk. |
| Alcohol | Alcohol sales are banned on official dry days such as Visakha Bucha (May 26) and some royal commemorations. Ramadan dry days in southern provinces apply locally; check dates if traveling there. |
| Booking | Reserve accommodation 3-4 months ahead for Songkran and Loy Krathong in major cities. Minimum stays of 3-5 nights are common during these peak cultural holidays. |
Public Holidays in Thailand: Key Traveler Questions
1Is Songkran a good time to visit Thailand?
Songkran (April 13-15, 2027) offers both spiritual ceremonies and lively water fights. For a meaningful experience, plan to be in Chiang Mai’s Old Town early mornings and Bangkok’s Khao San Road in the afternoon. Book transport and hotels at least 3-4 months ahead due to high demand.
2What closes during Loy Krathong in Thailand?
On Loy Krathong (expected November 13, 2027), government offices and banks close, especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Most temples and markets stay open, but expect crowded public transport and higher hotel prices near riversides.
3Can tourists participate in Visakha Bucha Day ceremonies?
Yes, tourists can respectfully join candlelit processions at major temples like Wat Pho in Bangkok during Visakha Bucha, expected May 15, 2027. Arrive early to avoid crowds and follow local customs such as dressing modestly and maintaining silence during ceremonies.
4How far ahead should I book for Songkran and Loy Krathong?
Book flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance for Songkran and 2-3 months ahead for Loy Krathong. These festivals draw large crowds, and last-minute bookings often face price surges or sold-out rooms.
5Are there alcohol restrictions during Thai public holidays?
Alcohol sales are banned on official dry days like Visakha Bucha (expected May 15, 2027) and some royal holidays. Southern provinces observe Ramadan dry days locally. Plan accordingly if you rely on bars or nightclubs during your trip.
6What happens if my trip overlaps with Songkran week?
Expect street closures, heavy crowds, and transport delays from April 13-15, 2027. Many businesses close or reduce hours on April 15. Use early mornings for temple visits and avoid intercity travel on the last day to skip gridlock.
7How does Loy Krathong differ between Bangkok and Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai’s Loy Krathong (expected November 13, 2027) centers on the Ping River with lantern releases and official ceremonies at Tha Phae Gate. Bangkok’s version is more dispersed along the Chao Phraya River with rooftop viewing spots. Chiang Mai offers a more concentrated, photo-worthy experience.
8What transport should I pre-book for major Thai festivals?
Pre-book flights, trains, and buses 2-4 months ahead for Songkran and Loy Krathong. Bangkok and Chiang Mai experience severe traffic congestion; use public transit or walk to festival sites to avoid delays.