Christmas in Thailand is not an official public holiday as the majority of the population practices Buddhism. However, due to the country’s thriving tourism industry and the influence of Western culture, Christmas is still celebrated in some areas, particularly in major cities and tourist destinations.
Christmas in Thailand
Merry Christmas from Koh TaoDuring the Christmas season, you will find shopping malls, hotels, and popular tourist areas decorated with lights, ornaments, and Christmas trees. Some restaurants and businesses may offer special Christmas-themed menus or promotions. Additionally, there are often events and parties organized by hotels, resorts, and expatriate communities to celebrate the holiday.
Religion and Culture
While Christmas in Thailand may lack the religious and cultural significance it holds in Western countries, it is still a festive time for tourists and expatriates who want to experience a different kind of celebration. It’s important to note that the overall atmosphere and scale of Christmas festivities can vary depending on the location. Major cities like Bangkok and popular tourist destinations such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are likely to have more visible Christmas celebrations compared to rural areas.
New Year or Songkran
Thailand celebrates the New Year on January 1st according to the Gregorian calendar, just like many other countries around the world, and In addition to the Western New Year, Thailand also observes its own traditional New Year known as Songkran. Songkran is based on the Thai lunar calendar and falls on April 13th to 15th each year. It is a significant holiday in Thailand and is celebrated with water-related activities, religious ceremonies, and cultural traditions.
During the Songkran festival, people engage in water fights and splash water on each other as a way to symbolize washing away the past year’s misfortunes and starting fresh for the new year. It’s a lively and festive time with parades, traditional dances, and merit-making activities at temples, and one or two big pool parties here on Koh Tao. Many people also return to their hometowns to celebrate Songkran with their families.
Weather around Thailand at Christmas
Thailand has three distinct seasons: the cool season, hot season, and rainy season. But keep in mind that the weather can vary depending on the region you are in. In the northern and central parts of Thailand, which include popular tourist destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya, December and January fall within the cool season. During this time, temperatures are generally pleasant and milder compared to other seasons. Daytime temperatures can range from around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), while evenings and early mornings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) or lower, especially in northern regions. You may want to pack some lightweight sweaters or jackets for the cooler evenings.
On the other hand, the southern regions of Thailand, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao, have a tropical climate and experience different weather patterns. In December and January, these areas typically have warm and sunny weather. Daytime temperatures can range from around 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), with high humidity. The southern regions are less likely to experience cooler temperatures compared to the north.
Book in Advance!
If you plan to visit Thailand during the Christmas holidays, it’s advisable to make reservations for accommodation on Koh Tao especially, in advance, as this period coincides with the peak tourist season.
