I’ve lived and worked in Thailand for over twenty years. Christmas and New Year are my favorite times, and Thailand doesn’t disappoint. In this post, I’ll tell you what to expect when celebrating Christmas in Thailand, what to look out for, where to go, and does Santa visit Thailand. Christmas is not a public holiday in Thailand, so it’s a regular working day for most. Christmas decorations in Thailand stay up long after the holiday is over.

What to Expect: Christmas in a Tropical Climate

Thailand’s weather from December to February is excellent, 26-30°C (79°F-86°F). The northern mountains can get cold, sometimes as low as two °C with ground frost. This is the best time to visit the mountains, and it’s a local favorite. December gets 9 hours of sunshine a day and only one rainy day for the whole month.

Christmas in Thailand

In Thailand, Christmas is celebrated with decorations, especially in tourist areas like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Despite the heat, the festive spirit is alive. Christmas is more of a commercial holiday than a religious one. With 85% of the population being Buddhist, Christmas is appreciated for its visual appeal rather than its religious meaning. Many Thais are drawn to its beauty and exoticness and even attend Christmas Mass.

Celebrate Christmas in Thailand, where it doesn't snow! Christmas trees are everywhere in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, streets and squares are lit up, malls and resorts have events, and local markets have Christmas treats. Resorts have Christmas Eve dinners and special events, and Pattaya and Phuket have outdoor concerts and festivals. Watch the fireworks over the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and beach parties on Koh Pha Ngan. Join the fun in this tropical paradise.

Where to Celebrate Christmas in Thailand

Bangkok: If you’re in Bangkok for Christmas, prepare for a city that sparkles! The big malls like CentralWorld and Siam Paragon go all out with lights and decorations. Decorated malls and shops have Santa hats and reindeer antlers. Many fancy hotels have Christmas Eve dinners with Western and Thai food. You can also catch live performances and holiday concerts. More on that below.

Phuket: Christmas in Phuket is all about fun in the sun! Expect beach parties, stunning sunsets, and luxury resort events. Many beachfront spots have Christmas markets where you can buy gifts and try holiday food while enjoying the sea breeze. Thailand is warm during Christmas, 28°C on average.

Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai is the place for a great Christmas vibe. The weather is milder (literally) and perfect for walking around Christmas markets and temples. It’s got a cozy, laid-back holiday feel. Meals and fetes are everywhere in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is good for a quiet and traditional Christmas.

Pattaya: Pattaya is famous for its Christmas celebrations and beachside shows that attract locals and tourists. The events feature outdoor concerts and fireworks that will make your holiday unforgettable. Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern entertainment against the beautiful backdrop of Pattaya’s coastline. These events showcase the city’s cultural diversity and its commitment to world-class entertainment. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a holiday escape, Pattaya’s beach Christmas shows will make your holiday season magical.

Hua Hin: Hua Hin is famous for its 5-star resorts that have Christmas galas, luxurious and fun. Visitors can feast and watch live entertainment and beautifully decorated venues that capture the holiday spirit. These events are perfect for relaxation and festive fun, Hua Hin is a great destination for holidaymakers looking for a memorable Christmas.

Koh Tao: Koh Tao is famous for its Christmas celebrations, Christmas Eve dinners, and beach parties. This island combines festive food and beachfront fun, it’s a great destination for holiday makers. You can have a Christmas under the stars, surrounded by the sound of the sea. Whether you’re dining fine or dancing the night away, Koh Tao will be an unforgettable holiday.

Koh Samui: Have a Christmas on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui, where the holiday season is tropical. Many island resorts and restaurants have festive dinners with ocean views. Family activities like beach games, kids’ parties, and even Santa visits. Relax and spend Christmas Day swimming in the sea or sipping cocktails on the sand. Koh Samui has the perfect festivity and serenity for your holiday escape.

Koh Tao: Koh Tao is a cute escape for a quiet Christmas. This small island is great for beach cocktails and a peaceful setting for the holiday. There are more backpackers than families, but they are laid-back enough for those looking for a different and quiet Christmas.

Christmas in Bangkok – Where to Go

Below is a list of events in Bangkok Thailand in 2024.

Kizomba Christmas 

For those who like to dance their cares away on the holidays, there’s a special holiday event with Kizomba Connection Bangkok. Get footloose starting at 7:30 pm for classes including beginner, fusion, and social dance, and then there’s a draw and gifts at 10:30 pm.

Rangoon Christmas Market

For a two-day event, the new Myanmar eatery Rangoon Tea House will be putting on a Myanmar Christmas with activities for kids, chai mulled wine, Burmese crepes, gingerbread decorating, and Burmese sausages.

A Stock Room Christmas Story

“You’ll shoot your eye out! You’ll shoot your eye out!” From Dec 21-31, the Tinseltown event at Kimpton Maa-Lai will feature a dinner buffet to go along with the all-time favorite Christmas movie “A Christmas Story” from way back in 1983 from Dec 21-30.

Mixology Chronicles: Holiday Magic

Ditch the egg nog for some proper cocktails at Asai Bangkok Sathorn, where they’ll be mixing up holiday-themed cocktails, and you’ll learn the latest in mixologist tactics starting at 3 pm; the event is limited to 10 people.

Kids’ Christmas Soap Workshop

A little wholesome Christmas fun for the family, this soap workshop will put kids and parents together to make natural soap that smells how you want in fun seasonal shapes, complete with a Christmas vibe.

Bangkok: Christmas Eve buffet dinner

Whether you want to enjoy the serene yet cheerful festivities with your family or share a romantic evening with your better half, grab a table at the Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner (B2,499/adult, 50% off for children aged 6–12, and free for kids under six). Adults can also enjoy free-flow alcoholic beverages for an additional B999/person.

In addition to an enticing array of festive food and drinks, the evening will feature live performances to complete the holiday vibes.

Christmas Party at Japan-ish

After your Christmas Eve lunch, head to Japan-ish for a little drink with their 5-course set menu featuring a wine pairing and live entertainment starting at 6 pm.

Jingle Bell Rock - Mean Girls Style

Coming from Bangkok’s favorite spot for Greek food, this year will be a very pink Christmas at Aesops, with Tony Ardawan and a live band.

Manohra Cruise Christmas Dinner

For a two-day Christmas cruise, Manohra Cruises with Anantara Riverside is putting out a big spread so you can experience Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on the Chaophraya.

Christmas Dinner

For Christmas Eve, the Sportsman pub crew will transform their drinking den into a winter wonderland, serving a Christmas turkey and crowd-pleasing dishes like pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, and salmon steak.

Family Christmas Activities in Thailand 2024

Thailand will have plenty of family-friendly Christmas activities in 2024. Many luxury resorts will host Santa meet-and-greets, craft workshops, and kids' parties. Families can also head north to Chiang Mai’s Nimmanhaemin Christmas Market, where they can shop for crafts and watch street performances. My personal favorite is the Jing Jai Holiday Market.

How Thais Celebrate Christmas

Technically, Thais don’t celebrate Christmas since most are Buddhists (and some Muslims on certain islands). December 24th and 25th are regular working days in Thailand.

But if you know Thais, they love any excuse for decorations and fun (and I mean that in the best way!). So they’re all in for Christmas. They may not exchange gifts at home, but at school, they do, and no doubt buy Christmas decorations, decorate their offices, and wear Santa hats. And they LOVE taking photos in all the festive spots.

For Thais, Christmas is an imported tradition but one they love. And they’re always happy to wish tourists a “Merry Christmas” and celebrate Christmas in Thailand with them.

Christmas in Schools in Thailand

In Thailand, Christmas is celebrated with a mix of traditional holidays and local culture, even though it’s not a public holiday. Christmas activities occur in schools primarily for educational purposes. Schools nationwide get into the festive spirit with various activities and events. In many Thai schools, the run-up to Christmas involves decorating classrooms and school areas with ornaments, lights, and Christmas trees. Students do arts and crafts to make their decorations and embody the spirit of creativity and teamwork. The celebrations usually include special assemblies or events where students perform Christmas songs, dances, and skits and often showcase their English language skills. These performances allow students to share the season's joy with their friends and create a sense of community. Many schools will have a no-uniform day for a fun cultural event. Students will bring gifts for Secret Santa and have a party in their classrooms. In some international or Christian schools, Christmas masses and religious services may also be held so that students and staff can come together to reflect on the meaning of the holiday. Overall, schools in Thailand celebrate Christmas in a fun, creative, and community-focused way so students can enjoy the season regardless of their beliefs.

Christmas in Thailand is it Worth it?

Overall, I think Christmas in Thailand is an excellent idea whether you’re solo, as a couple, or with kids. The atmosphere is fantastic, the decorations are stunning, and there’s lots of Christmas fun. There is something for everyone. Head south to the beaches and Islands for a Christmas by the beach and head north for cooler weather and a more relaxed vibe.

Christmas in Thailand FAQs

Can I find a traditional Christmas dinner in Thailand?

Yes! Popular areas like Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer traditional Christmas dinners, often a mix of Western and Thai cuisine. You’ll get to enjoy festive meals with turkey and Christmas carols.

Can I find Christmas Displays in Thailand?

Christmas decorations are available in tourist areas, especially department stores, shopping malls, and hotels. You’ll find big Christmas trees, shining lights, and festive displays even in unexpected places, like palm trees along the beach. Major cities like Bangkok and Phuket go all out to create a festive atmosphere.

Can I do outdoor activities during Christmas in Thailand?

Yes! December is warm in Thailand but cooler than usual, so it’s perfect for outdoor activities. You can go island hopping in the Andaman Sea, visit national parks in northern Thailand, or enjoy beach activities like swimming and snorkeling.

Can I find Christmas gifts in Thailand?

Yes, Thailand is a great place to buy Christmas gifts! Local markets, shopping centers, and department stores are full of gift ideas, from handmade crafts to modern gadgets. Thailand is famous for its variety and affordability! Many businesses in tourist areas use Christmas for marketing.

Can I attend Christmas religious services in Thailand?

Yes! While Thailand is approximately 85% Buddhist., you can find Christian churches, especially in bigger cities like Bangkok, where Christmas religious services are held. These churches celebrate Christmas Mass on December 25th, a fantastic experience. Many non-Christian Thais attend Christmas mass for its beauty and charm.

Do Thais give Christmas gifts?

While gift-giving isn’t a Thai tradition, you’ll find it for the new year and in schools over Christmas. Thai people are gift-giving people; any excuse for a party and giving gifts is embraced.

Can I hear Christmas carols in Thailand?

You’ll often hear Christmas carols and songs in shopping malls, hotels, and local markets. Although it’s not a Thai tradition, the festive atmosphere has many Western influences, including Christmas music. Especially during the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners, there are carol singers and live Christmas music performances. Christmas Eve is more widely celebrated than Christmas Day in Thailand.