Visitors planning a night out in Bangkok or Pattaya this weekend will need to make alternative plans, as a temporary alcohol sales ban will be in force during local elections.
Thailand’s Election Commission has announced that the sale, distribution, and serving of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited from 6pm on Saturday, June 27, until 6pm on Sunday, June 28. The restriction applies throughout Bangkok and Pattaya as residents head to the polls to elect Bangkok’s governor and city councillors, along with Pattaya’s mayor and city council members.
The ban covers all types of alcohol and applies to bars, nightclubs, restaurants, convenience stores, supermarkets, and entertainment venues. Businesses found violating the order face penalties of up to six months in prison, fines of up to 10,000 baht, or both.
Voting will take place on Sunday, June 28, between 8am and 5pm. The alcohol restriction is intended to prevent vote buying and maintain public order during the election period, a long-standing practice under Thai election law.
For tourists, the ban often comes as a surprise. Popular nightlife areas including Walking Street, Soi Buakhao, LK Metro, Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy, and many rooftop bars across Bangkok will either close temporarily or operate without serving alcohol. Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and supermarkets will also stop alcohol sales during the restricted period.
Travellers who wish to drink during the ban are advised to purchase alcohol before 6pm on Saturday. While private consumption of alcohol purchased beforehand is generally permitted, businesses are prohibited from selling or serving alcoholic drinks during the ban period.
The restriction will be lifted at 6pm on Sunday, when bars, clubs, restaurants, and retailers will be permitted to resume alcohol sales. In Pattaya, many venues are expected to reopen immediately as the city’s famous nightlife scene returns to normal.
Anyone visiting Bangkok or Pattaya this weekend should plan ahead and be aware that the temporary alcohol ban applies regardless of nationality or voting eligibility.
