The main dates
| Holiday | 2026 | 2027 (provisional) |
|---|---|---|
| Makha Bucha | 3 March | 21 February (holiday moved to the 22nd) |
| Chakri Memorial Day | 6 April | 6 April |
| Songkran | 13 to 15 April | 13 to 15 April |
| Visakha Bucha | 31 May (holiday moved to 1 June) | 20 May |
| Asarnha Bucha and start of Buddhist Lent | 29 and 30 July | 18 and 19 July |
Other holidays are added: Labour Day (1 May), Coronation Day (4 May), royal birthdays (including Queen Suthida on 3 June and Mother's Day on 12 August), Constitution Day (10 December) and New Year. A government can add bridge days during the year: check the official list from the cabinet or the Bank of Thailand before booking.
Songkran in Phuket
Songkran is the New Year water festival: for three days the streets of Patong, Phuket Town and the beaches turn into water fights. Book early, as hotel and flight prices rise, and protect your phone and papers in a waterproof pouch. For weather and crowds: Phuket in April.
Buddhist days: what changes
Makha, Visakha and Asarnha Bucha are religious holidays. Some alcohol-sale rules have changed in recent years: ask your hotel. The island's temples stay open and host evening ceremonies: see Wat Chalong for a respectful visit.
Other festivals in Phuket
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival falls in October and is not a national holiday: see the vegetarian festival. For Christmas and year end: Christmas and New Year in Phuket.
FAQ
Do shops and excursions close on public holidays?
Most stay open in Phuket; banks and government offices close. Confirm with your operator.
What is the best time to avoid crowds?
Avoid Songkran, the Christmas - New Year period and bridge days; the best season remains November to April: best time to visit Phuket.
Are the 2027 dates certain?
No, they are provisional until official confirmation.
