The Most Important Public Holidays in Thailand In 2022

There are 19 public holidays in Thailand in 2022, and 4 of them fall on weekends. Photo KnowInsiders

As do many other countries, Thailand celebrates its own fair share of holidays throughout the year. Especially as a nation deep-rooted into Buddhism, influencing not only their beliefs but also culture and way of life, people celebrate various important Buddhist occasions. What’s more, as one of the few nations that still have a monarchy, many of these holidays pertain to significant events related to the royal family.

There are 19 public holidays in Thailand in 2022, and 4 of them fall on weekends.

The following is the list of public holidays in Thailand in 2022.

Buddhist Holidays in Thailand in 2022

Makha Bucha Day - Feb 16, 2022 (Wednesday)

The term ‘Makha Bucha’ is from Pali, a language native to the Indian subcontinent. “Makha” means the third Lunar month, while “Bucha” refers to respect or honor. Makha Bucha is one of the most important festivals in Buddhism and is celebrated on the day of the full moon of the third lunar month. This is when Buddha delivered his core teachings to his disciples and the story talks about four special events that occurred on that day:

1,250 disciples came to see Buddha at Weluwan Wannaram without being summoned.

All those 1,250 disciples were ‘Arahants’ which means enlightened disciples.

All those 1,250 disciples were ordained by the Buddha himself.

It was the day of the full moon.

Visakha Bucha Day - May 16, 2022 (Monday)

Visakha Bucha is short for ‘Visakhapunnamipuja’ meaning ‘ worship of Lord Buddha’ in Pali. This day marks and commemorates the three major events that occurred on the same day but in different years: The Birth of Buddha, the Enlightenment of Buddha and lastly his Death. All three events happened on a full moon of the sixth lunar month which is when this day is celebrated. Not only is it a special day in Thailand, but a day commemorated throughout the world, having been declared an international day by the United Nations in 1999.

Asalha Bucha Day - July 13, 2022 (Wednesday)

Asalha Bucha Day is celebrated on the day of the full moon of the eighth lunar month. It marks the day Buddha delivered his first sermon, ‘Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta’ to five ascetics. As a result, all of them attained enlightenment and Buddha himself ordained them as the first group of Buddhist monks. One of the reasons this day is such a meaningful day is because the sermon he delivered then embodies the essence of his teachings which are taught throughout the world until now.

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