Heads up: an alcohol ban will take effect in Thailand during the coming long weekend in July. Here’s what you need to know.
The upcoming “long weekend” (in quotes because Monday isn’t a holiday, sadly) is the last one we’ll have in a while. If you take your leave strategically, and if you have any left, you can have the entire week off. It’s certainly a welcome reprieve as we step into the latter half of 2026, but there is a major catch during this long weekend. Because two of the days are Buddhist holidays, an alcohol ban will be in effect. We break down what you need to know about the upcoming alcohol ban in July.
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Alcohol ban to take effect on 29-30 July
Unfortunately, Monday, 27 July isn’t a holiday; otherwise we’d have a legit long weekend. But Tuesday to Wednesday, 28 to 29 July are, with 30 July also a holiday for government offices and other workplaces. Tuesday the 28th is His Majesty the King’s birthday. The 29th is Asalha Bucha, while the 30th is Buddhist Lent.
Asalha Bucha and Buddhist Lent are religious holidays, and as such, an alcohol ban will take place. Unlike the previous alcohol ban that occurred during the election, this alcohol ban will be imposed for two full days from 29 to 30 July. If you’re looking to buy and stock up, you’ve got until midnight on 28 July. The ban is lifted on 30 July.
The law does provide certain exemptions. Under the current law, these are the places that are exempt from the ban:
- International airports
- Hotels
- Tourist hotspots
- Nightlife locations
- Venues hosting national or international events
What exactly counts as tourist hotspots isn’t specified. As for nightclubs, only those that are fully licensed under Thailand’s Entertainment Act are exempt. Since customers can’t easily find this info, it’s best to call the venue to ask if you’re planning to go out during these two days.
Prepare accordingly as we head into this weekend. Either get ready to stay dry or stock up while you still can.
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
