Bangkok– This week, Thailand celebrates Makha Bucha Day, a Buddhist holiday observed on the full moon day of the third lunar month. This year, it falls on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Makha Bucha commemorates the day when 1,250 of Buddha’s disciples spontaneously gathered to hear his teachings, which included the core principles of Buddhism: Cease from evil, do good, and cleanse the mind.
On this day, people visit Buddhist temples to participate in rites, offer food to monks, meditate, and join in a candlelight procession. It’s also common for people to abstain from alcohol and other vices as a sign of respect and reflection.
Due to Thai law, alcohol sales are BANNED on religious holidays and as a result bars will be shut and even sales at convenience stores prohibited from legally midnight to midnight on Wednesday, a full 24 hours. Skyhigh fines and major prison time are possible penalties for breaking this law.
