Phuket’s spirit sobered: 24-hour alcohol ban for Wan Org Pansa holiday
Popular Thai tourist destination Phuket will observe a strict 24-hour ban on alcohol sales starting from midnight on Saturday, as part of the country’s observance of the Buddhist religious holiday, Wan Org Pansa. This event, which takes place on Sunday, October 29, marks the culmination of the three-month season known as the Rains Retreat, often referred to as Buddhist Lent.
The alcohol ban is set to start just past midnight on Saturday (12.01am Sunday, October 29) and will wrap up at midnight the following day (12am, October 30). This prohibition on alcohol sales during Wan Org Pansa has been a legal mandate since the Prime Minister’s Office issued a directive on January 22, 2015.
The directive outlines a ban on alcohol sales during five significant religious days in the Thai Buddhist calendar: Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha Day, Khao Pansa, and Wan Org Pansa. These days are considered sacred, and the Thai authorities enforce the law strictly to respect the religious sentiments of the population, reported The Phuket News.
Offenders risk facing severe penalties, which could include up to six months in prison, a fine of 10,000 baht (US$300), or both. The police have urged the public to respect the law, especially during this important religious day.
In May, a nationwide alcohol ban will be enforced in Thailand this Saturday, June 3, in observance of the Buddhist holiday Visakha Bucha. The ban coincides with a royal visit to Phuket by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, celebrating Her Majesty’s birthday.
Visakha Bucha commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Prince Siddhartha, which all occurred on the same date, decades apart, according to the ancient Buddhist calendar.
Devout Buddhists traditionally visit temples early in the morning to make merit and listen to sermons on Buddha’s teachings. In the evening, candle-lit processions take place at major temples across the country. To read more click HERE
