PUBLIC HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS
Koh Samui, like the rest of Thailand, has a rich calendar of public holidays, traditional festivals, and exciting cultural events. Whether you’re interested in Buddhist celebrations, national holidays, or island-wide festivals, experiencing a Thai holiday can add a unique cultural dimension to your trip.
Some holidays bring religious ceremonies and family gatherings, while others are lively celebrations with parades, fireworks, and beach parties. Certain days also have alcohol restrictions, which may affect nightlife and entertainment venues.
Below, you’ll find a complete guide to public holidays, major festivals, and important events in Koh Samui, including their significance and what to expect as a visitor.
Public Holidays in Koh Samui
Thailand observes both national holidays and Buddhist religious holidays, many of which are based on the lunar calendar and change each year.
Fixed Date Public Holidays
| Date | Holiday | Description |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day (Wan Pee Mai) | A nationwide celebration with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings. |
| April 6 | Chakri Memorial Day | Honors King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri dynasty. |
| May 1 | Labor Day | Public holiday for workers, banks and government offices close. |
| May 4 | Coronation Day | Celebrates the coronation of the current king. |
| June 3 | Queen Suthida’s Birthday | A national holiday honoring the Queen of Thailand. |
| July 28 | King Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday | Celebrates the birthday of the current Thai King. |
| August 12 | Mother’s Day (Queen Mother’s Birthday) | Honors Queen Sirikit, widely celebrated with flowers and ceremonies. |
| October 13 | King Bhumibol Memorial Day | In remembrance of the late King Rama IX. |
| October 23 | Chulalongkorn Day | Commemorates King Rama V’s modernization of Thailand. |
| December 5 | Father’s Day (King Rama IX’s Birthday) | Honors the late King Bhumibol and all fathers in Thailand. |
| December 10 | Constitution Day | Celebrates Thailand’s constitutional monarchy. |
| December 31 | New Year’s Eve | Island-wide celebrations with fireworks, parties, and beach events. |
💡 Tip: On royal holidays, government offices, banks, and some businesses may close, but most tourist activities continue as usual.
Floating Date Public Holidays (Buddhist & Lunar Calendar Holidays)
| Holiday | Description | Typical Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Makha Bucha Day | A Buddhist holiday commemorating the Buddha’s teachings, celebrated with candle-lit processions at temples. | February/March |
| Songkran (Thai New Year) | A nationwide water festival with street water fights, temple visits, and traditional celebrations. | April 13-15 |
| Vesak (Visakha Bucha Day) | Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. | May/June |
| Asahna Bucha Day | Marks Buddha’s first sermon, observed with temple visits and candle ceremonies. | July |
| Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa Day) | Begins a three-month monk retreat, with merit-making ceremonies at temples. | July |
| End of Buddhist Lent (Awk Phansa) | The conclusion of Buddhist Lent, celebrated with merit-making and river lanterns. | October |
🚫 No Alcohol Sales on Buddhist Holidays – Bars and entertainment venues are required to stop selling alcohol on these days.
Major Festivals & Events in Koh Samui
Koh Samui hosts a variety of traditional Thai festivals, international events, and local celebrations, making it an exciting destination year-round.
1. Songkran Festival (April 13-15) – Thai New Year
- The biggest and most fun festival in Thailand!
- Celebrated with water fights, street parties, and traditional ceremonies.
- Expect road closures, music, and people splashing water everywhere.
- In Koh Samui, celebrations are biggest in Chaweng, Lamai, and Fisherman’s Village.
💡 Tip: Protect your phone and electronics – everything and everyone gets soaked!
2. Loy Krathong (November) – The Festival of Lights
- One of Thailand’s most beautiful and spiritual festivals.
- People release decorated floating lanterns (krathongs) into the water to honor the river goddess.
- In Koh Samui, celebrations happen at Chaweng Lake and temples across the island.
💡 Tip: Buy a biodegradable krathong to avoid plastic pollution in the ocean.
3. Full Moon Party (Every Month, Koh Phangan)
- A world-famous beach party held on Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan.
- Features DJ performances, neon body paint, fire shows, and all-night dancing.
- Many travelers stay in Koh Samui and take a boat to the party.
💡 Tip: Arrange return boat transport before going to avoid high late-night prices.
4. Chinese New Year (January/February – Date Varies)
- Celebrated with dragon dances, firecrackers, and family feasts.
- Popular in areas with a Chinese-Thai community, like Fisherman’s Village.
- Many shops and businesses close for family gatherings.
💡 Tip: Try the special Chinese food offerings available during this festival.
5. Samui Regatta (May) – International Sailing Race
- A major yacht race attracting professional sailors worldwide.
- Races take place off Chaweng Beach, with parties and events onshore.
- One of the most prestigious regattas in Asia.
💡 Tip: Best viewed from a beachfront restaurant or a boat tour.
6. Samui Bike Week (May) – Motorbike Festival
- A gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts, featuring shows, parades, and charity rides.
- Attracts Harley-Davidson and big bike riders from all over Thailand.
- Held in Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village.
💡 Tip: Great for motorbike lovers and photographers.
7. Buffalo Fighting Festival (New Year & Songkran)
- A traditional Koh Samui event, not as violent as Spanish bullfighting.
- Held in stadiums around the island, with betting and local festivities.
- Unlike other parts of Thailand, this tradition is unique to Koh Samui.
💡 Tip: Not for animal lovers – consider skipping if you’re against animal-based entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Koh Samui’s public holidays and festivals add an extra layer of culture, excitement, and local charm to your trip. Whether you want to join in on wild Songkran water fights, experience the peaceful beauty of Loy Krathong, or attend one of the island’s special events, there’s always something happening.
Check Samui Map Info for festival dates, local events, and celebration details to make the most of your trip to Koh Samui!
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