English
French
Spanish
Italian
In Thailand, Christmas is not an official holiday due to the Buddhist culture. However, the Thai capital city is an attractive destination to enjoy a vibrant and unique festive atmosphere. If you are planning to celebrate Christmas 2024 in Bangkok, this article from Asia King Travel offers you some activities that you should not miss.
Christmas events in Thailand usually start in November and take place during the Christmas and New Year celebrations in Bangkok. Bangkok is full of events, decorations, night markets, so it is the perfect place for your Thailand vacation in December.
Annual Christmas lights in Thailand (Source: TAT Newsroom)
In fact, Christmas is not officially a public holiday in Bangkok as Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, so if Christmas in Bangkok or Thailand falls on a weekday, it is the same as any other working day. However, many shopping malls in Bangkok hold Christmas events and lights to encourage people to shop more, and expats and foreigners alike enjoy Bangkok’s Christmas markets.
It is also important to remember that Songkran (Thai New Year) is in April (you may have seen the water gun festival), but New Year’s Eve on December 31/January 1 is sometimes celebrated with events at hotels or restaurants in Bangkok.
A dinner cruise is a popular way for tourists to celebrate Christmas or New Year in Bangkok. You will also get the opportunity to watch the spectacular fireworks display over the Chao Phraya River on New Year's Eve.
Read more: Trip 4 days in Center Thailand: Bangkok - Ayutthaya
If there is something that sets this market apart from all the other night markets in the city of Bangkok, it is the peculiarity that it is only open during the Christmas period.
Visit the Great Gatsby Market (Source: Coconuts)
This Christmas market is held at K-Village, which is a shopping mall in Sukhumvit. One of the things that you will love and certainly appreciate the most is the vintage atmosphere of the Great Gatsby market, which also recreates the spirit of this holiday season very well. Inside, you can even try the most daring gastronomic offer in the city, as you will find more than 150 stalls offering a wide variety of food and drinks.
If you want to spend Christmas Eve in Bangkok, we recommend you to take one of the best cruises in Bangkok, with an average price of 95 euros per person, in this case the one that goes along the Chao Phraya River. You will love the night view of the city from the river, while tasting typical Thai dishes or, if you prefer, Western dishes.
Take a cruise on the Chao Phraya River on Christmas Eve (Source: Tripadvisor)
During the cruise, you will be able to admire the Christmas lights of greater Bangkok that shine from the Chao Phraya River. Among the most incredible views are the panoramic views of the Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew temples. In addition, you will be able to enjoy the decoration of the boats, as well as live music and Christmas shows offered on board.
However, remember to book in advance, as places fill up quickly for these popular Christmas cruises, especially for the most popular options.
One activity we recommend doing during Christmas is to sign up for one of the best tuk-tuk rides in Bangkok and experience the festive atmosphere of the city.
Take a Bangkok city tour in tuk-tuks (Source: VIE Hotels Bangkok)
Tuk-tuks, a three-wheeled motorized vehicle, are a typical means of transportation in the city. You will love this experience and you will be able to go to the Christmas markets in the Silom district and other places, and you can even make stops whenever you want to buy Christmas gifts and souvenirs from your Christmas trip.
During the Christmas period, some neighborhoods and streets in Bangkok decorate their roads with Christmas lights, making your tuk-tuk ride a more than enjoyable experience. Walking around these neighborhoods and enjoying the festive decorations is an attractive activity for locals and visitors alike, so it is perfect if you want to get to know the city a little better.
Asiatique The Riverfront Christmas Market is a unique and festive experience in Bangkok, located along the Chao Phraya River. This seasonal market is distinguished by its sparkling lights, Christmas decorations and various stalls. Visitors can sample a wide variety of dishes, mixing Thai specialties with Christmas treats, such as hot chocolate, churros and gingerbread.
Strolling around the Christmas Market at Asiatique The Riverfront (Source: PlaceofJuma)
Besides gastronomy, Asiatique has several craft stalls where you may find handmade gifts and local decorations, perfect for authentic souvenirs. In the night, the reflections of the lights on the river create a romantic and magic atmosphere, ideal for going for a walk or taking photos. The market also holds concerts and entertainment that add a musical and festive touch.
Finally, a ride on the Asiatique Sky Ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the illuminated city, making this visit unforgettable.
Admiring Bangkok from a rooftop is a great way to celebrate Christmas in a chic and spectacular atmosphere. Head up to one of the city’s rooftop bars, such as the Sky Bar at Lebua or the Octave Rooftop Bar. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Bangkok lit up, these venues are perfect for a festive and memorable evening.
Admire the city from a rooftop (Source: Original Travel)
Sip on a cocktail while admiring the skyscrapers and twinkling lights that give the city a special festive glow. This experience certainly will guarantee you a special Christmas, between elegance and breathtaking panorama.
Chocolate Ville in Bangkok is an ideal place to celebrate Christmas 2024, featuring a festive atmosphere with sparkling lights, holiday decorations, and a romantic European-inspired setting. Restaurants in the park serve seasonal delicacies such as roast turkey, gingerbread cookies, and mulled wine, which are a gastronomic treat for lovers of Christmas.
Chocolate Ville in Bangkok (Source: Klook)
Visitors can experience live performances, carolers, and special events adding to the holiday cheer. This is an excellent place to come for families, including scenic rides, photo opportunities with Santa, and Christmas souvenirs. Chocolate Ville combines delicious food with fun activities and a magical atmosphere, making it one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Bangkok.
We hope that sharing above will be useful to you. Christmas 2024 Bangkok is an ideal destination for you to enjoy your end-of-year holidays. If you want to make a tailor-made tour in Thailand, do not hesitate to contact the team of Asia King Travel for an authentic and memorable experience.
Read more: Bangkok Tour 4 days: City Exploration
