Thailand-
Several major holidays are approaching over the upcoming weekend and next week, which will impact many with both the way they will be marked and due to related measures, with traditional activities like the cover photo banned this year.
First up, is Asahana Bucha day on Saturday, July 24th, 2021 (Marked as a government holiday, however, on Monday, July 26th, 2021 as it falls on a weekend.)
Sunday, July 25th, 2021, is the start of Buddhist Lent.
For many foreigners, the biggest change on these days will be a total ban on ALL alcohol sales. Bars and entertainment venues are currently closed nationwide and in most places, restaurants cannot sell alcohol, with a few exceptions like Phuket. So the effect these days will have will be less than prior years. However, even buying at supermarkets or convenience stores is illegal on these days per Thai law, so stock up in advance.
Only Saturday and Sunday will be the alcohol ban days, alcohol will be allowed on Monday, July 27th, as it is a “makeup” day and not the actual religious holiday.
Wednesday, July 28th, 2021, is the birthday of His Royal Majesty the Thai King, Maha Vajiralongkorn. This is NOT an alcohol ban day.
Tuesday, July 28th, will be a normal business day and was canceled as a public holiday due to Covid-19 and officials urging people not to travel for the holiday period and “stay home”. However, Royal Thai Immigration will be closed on Monday and Wednesday of next week, keep that in mind in advance.
All three holidays will be marked mostly online due to an ongoing breakout in Thailand and officials asking provinces and temples not to throw ceremonies with the public, temple fairs, public sermons, or other normal events. You can read more about that by clicking right here.