Why Thailand Celebrates New Year 3 Times

When: January 1, 2026

This is the one you know. Like the rest of the world, Thailand officially marks the change of the calendar on January 1st. It is a national public holiday, banks are closed, and the malls are packed.

Bangkok is the epicenter of this celebration. The countdown at CentralWorld is often compared to Times Square in New York, while the riverside icons like Wat Arun and ICONSIAM light up with world-class fireworks displays.

How to celebrate:

Bangkok: Book a rooftop bar months in advance for the best view of the fireworks.

Islands (Phuket/Samui): Expect massive beach parties where the countdown happens on the sand.

Local Tradition: On the morning of January 1st, many Thais visit temples to "make merit" (Tam Boon) to ensure good luck for the year ahead.

When: February 17, 2026 (Year of the Horse)

While not an official nationwide public holiday (except in some southern provinces), the Chinese New Year is massive in Thailand. This is due to the significant Thai-Chinese population that forms the backbone of Bangkok’s commerce and culture.

For 2026, the Lunar New Year falls on February 17. You will know it's coming when the 7-Elevens are suddenly filled with red decorations and you hear firecrackers popping in the alleyways.

How to celebrate:

Yaowarat (Chinatown): This is the place to be. The entire road is closed to traffic, and it becomes a sea of red shirts, dragon dancers, and street food stalls.

The Rituals: You will see people burning "spirit money" and offering fruits, duck, and pork to their ancestors.

The Dress Code: Wear red. Seriously, do not wear black or white, as these are associated with mourning.

When: April 13–15, 2026

If you thought the first two were fun, wait until April. Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, based on the solar calendar. Historically, it was a time to gently pour scented water over the hands of elders to ask for forgiveness and blessings.

Today? It is the world’s biggest water fight.

Because April is the hottest month of the year in Thailand, the entire country shuts down for a week-long water festival. Pickups loaded with water barrels roam the streets, and tourists armed with super-soakers battle it out with locals.

How to celebrate:

Bangkok (Silom & Khao San Road): Ground zero for water wars. Expect to be soaked from head to toe the moment you step outside.

Chiang Mai: Generally considered the "best" place for Songkran, where the celebration takes place around the ancient city moat.

The Cultural Side: If you want to avoid the chaos, visit a temple early in the morning to see the sand pagodas and the bathing of Buddha statues, which is the true heart of the festival.

Read the full guide: Top 5 Songkran Destinations in Thailand