The Thai cabinet has approved three additional public holidays for 2025.
The holidays include a four-day holiday to celebrate HM the Queen’s birthday from May 31 to June 3. Also, the birthday holiday of HM Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother will be extended by a day from August 9-12.
Overall, there will be 21 public holidays in 2025, with three additional holidays as follows:
- Monday, June 2, 2025, is designated as a special additional public holiday, creating a 4-day holiday period from May 31 – June 3, 2025, which includes Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday.
- Monday, August 11, 2025, is designated as a special additional public holiday, resulting in a 4-day holiday period from August 9-12, 2025, which includes National Mother’s Day.
- Friday, January 2, 2026, is designated as a special additional public holiday, creating a 5-day holiday period from December 31, 2025 – January 4, 2026, to extend the New Year holiday period.
Thailand has many public holidays due to its rich cultural, historical, and religious heritage. The holidays reflect the country’s diverse traditions, deeply ingrained Buddhist culture, monarchy, and appreciation for both ancient and modern influences.
Holidays are also often added to make long weekends for travel and tourism purposes, as is the case in these new 2025 additions.
- Buddhist Influence
Religious Observances: Most Thai people practice Theravada Buddhism, and many public holidays are tied to significant Buddhist events, such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, and Asahna Bucha. These holidays honour the life and teachings of the Buddha.
Buddhist Lent: Special holidays like Buddhist Lent Day mark important periods in the Buddhist calendar. - Monarchy
The Thai monarchy holds a revered position in Thai culture. Public holidays celebrate key events associated with the royal family, such as:
The King’s Birthday
The Queen Mother’s Birthday
Coronation Day
Chakri Day
These holidays honor both the current and past monarchs and highlight the monarchy’s cultural importance in Thai society. - Cultural Traditions
Festivals like Songkran, the Thai New Year, are deeply rooted in Thai culture and are celebrated nationwide. Songkran, in particular, is a beloved holiday that emphasises family, tradition, and community.
Holidays like Loy Krathong (though not a public holiday) and Songkran showcase Thailand’s vibrant cultural practices. - Historical Events
Holidays such as Chulalongkorn Day and Constitution Day commemorate key historical moments in Thailand’s development, such as modernisation under King Rama V and adopting the country’s first constitution. - Alignment with Global Observances
Thailand recognises certain international holidays, such as Labour Day and New Year’s Day, aligning with global standards. - Promoting Tourism
Public holidays often encourage domestic and international tourism. Major holidays like Songkran and the King’s Birthday attract tourists and boost the economy. - Community and Family Values
Thai society places great emphasis on family and community. Public holidays allow people to spend time with loved ones and participate in communal activities.
In summary, Thailand’s numerous holidays reflect its rich and multifaceted identity, which blends religion, monarchy, culture, and history. This variety makes Thailand a vibrant and unique place to live and visit.