【2025 Guide】How to Celebrate New Year in Thailand｜Complete Guide for Residents & Travelers

25/12/2025

New Year’s Eve in Thailand is one of the most exciting times of the year.
From massive countdown events and spectacular fireworks to festive illuminations and vibrant street atmospheres, Thailand’s New Year offers a perfect blend of energy, celebration, and cultural warmth.

Whether you live in Thailand or are visiting for the holidays, this guide covers everything you need to know:
holiday schedules, best countdown spots, events, traditions, recommended activities, and travel tips.

1. Is New Year’s a Public Holiday in Thailand?

YES — unlike Christmas, New Year’s is officially recognized.

Typical Holiday Schedule

• December 31 (New Year’s Eve): public holiday
• January 1 (New Year’s Day): public holiday
• Additional substitute holidays may be added depending on the year

This makes late December and early January a peak travel period for both locals and international tourists.

2. Thailand’s New Year Atmosphere：The Entire City Turns Into a Festival

From mid-December until early January, Thailand becomes a full-on celebration zone.

What You’ll See in the City

• Huge Christmas trees that stay up until early January
• Winter-themed illuminations
• Year-end concerts & live events
• Limited-edition New Year dining menus
• Massive shopping mall sales
• Seasonal pop-up markets and outdoor shows

Unlike Japan’s quiet year-end atmosphere, Thailand’s New Year is energetic, colorful, and party-like.

3. Top New Year Countdown Events in Bangkok

Here are the most iconic places to celebrate the new year in Bangkok:

① Central World Countdown

• One of the biggest countdown events in Asia
• Gigantic LED screens, live performances, and fireworks
• Extremely popular — expect huge crowds
• Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot

② ICONSIAM Riverside Countdown

• Stunning fireworks along the Chao Phraya River
• Light shows synchronized with music
• Ideal for visitors who want a luxurious riverside celebration
• Many restaurants offer exclusive New Year packages

③ ASIATIQUE Countdown

• Perfect combination of river views + fireworks + entertainment
• You can take photos of the iconic Ferris wheel with fireworks in the background
• Popular among travelers seeking a relaxed yet festive atmosphere

④ Rooftop Bars & Hotels

Examples:
Banyan Tree, Lebua, Park Hyatt, Avani+, SO/ Bangkok

• Best option for panoramic night views
• Exclusive New Year dinner packages
• Reservations are essential (often sold out weeks in advance)

4. How Residents in Thailand Usually Spend New Year’s Eve

Not everyone goes out to massive countdown events.
Many residents prefer a more relaxed celebration.

• Family Dinner at Restaurants

Enjoying a nice dinner with family or friends, then watching fireworks from a distance.

• Rooftop Countdown

Quiet, stylish, and less crowded compared to public events.

• Home Parties

Small gatherings and potluck-style dinners are becoming more common.

5. Recommended New Year Activities for Travelers

① Enjoy the Illuminations

Christmas decorations remain until early January.

Recommended spots:

• Central World
• EmQuartier / Emporium
• Siam Paragon
• ICONSIAM

② Take Advantage of Year-End Sales

Thailand’s year-end discounts are serious:
50%–80% OFF is normal.

③ Riverside Dining

Have a special New Year or New Year’s Day dinner along the Chao Phraya River.

④ Visit Temples (Thai-style “First Visit of the Year”)

Many Thais visit temples to pray for good luck in the new year.

Popular temples:

• Wat Pho
• Wat Arun
• Wat Phra Kaew

This can be an enriching cultural experience for travelers.

6. Thai New Year Traditions：How It Differs from Japan or the West

① Many People Spend New Year With Family

New Year’s Eve parties are common, but January 1 is often reserved for family time.

② Greetings Are More Important Than Gifts

Instead of exchanging expensive presents, people greet each other with:
“Sawasdee Pee Mai” (Happy New Year)

③ Making Merit at Temples

Giving donations and making merit is a key New Year activity for many Thais.

④ Countdown Events Are Like Concerts

The atmosphere is loud, exciting, and festival-like — very different from Japan’s quiet New Year.

7. Essential Tips for Enjoying New Year in Thailand

(1) Expect Heavy Crowds Everywhere

Especially around:

• Central World
• Siam
• ICONSIAM
• Riverside areas

(2) Make Reservations Early

Restaurants, rooftop bars, and hotels fill up extremely fast.

(3) Transportation Will Be Busy

Traffic jams are unavoidable.
Grab prices surge and cars become difficult to book.

BTS and MRT are the best options.

(4) Beware of Pickpockets

Large crowds mean higher risk.
Carry minimal belongings.

(5) Fireworks Are Very Loud

Keep this in mind if you’re traveling with children or pets.

8. Summary：New Year in Thailand = Energy, Fireworks, Warmth

Thailand’s New Year holiday offers:

• Spectacular countdown events
• Riverfront fireworks
• Massive illuminations
• Delicious dining experiences
• Warm cultural traditions

Whether you are living in Thailand or visiting during December–January, the country offers an unforgettable way to welcome the new year.

Enjoy the vibrant energy, join the celebrations, and experience a uniquely Thai-style Happy New Year!