Thailand Public Holidays

If you are doing business in Thailand it is important to be aware of the public holidays, of which there are a lot.

Some are fixed dates each year, while many of the Buddhist holidays for the lunar calendar so will change each year.

Also some holidays are tied to the royal family, celebrating the King and Queen's birthday, so could be subject to change when a new monarch ascends the throne.

From a business perspective certain businesses and government offices will close on some, but not all holidays. 

Employees in Thailand are entitled to a minimum of 13 public holidays per year. Employers cannot force employees to work on public holidays, unless the description or nature of the work requires it to be performed consistently. Hotels, entertainment businesses, shops, transportation, medical businesses and similar companies are exempt from this requirement and may require employees to work on public holidays.

Many holidays prohibit sales of alcohol which will affect bars, restaurants and shops.