was just about to book a hotel for thursday and friday and have just heard the bars are going to be closed ! anybody know for sure??

It is a buddha holiday, not illegal to sell booze but is voluntary. Hard to say. You normally find the farang bars close whilst the Thai bars drink themselves silly.

In Soi Bangla, there are large signs written only in Thai which explain that alcohol will not be served. But the bars can remain open and sell soft drinks. (I suppose it's only written in Thai so as not to forwarn tourists...)

Simon

the closure on thursday and friday is due to the elections i think.

the closure on thursday and friday is due to the elections i think.

Nope,it's two important buddha days.

PST.

Ahh my bad, so does this mean on friday when i goto BKK nothing will be open?

Hallo,

just this information from Phuket Gazette:

Bars asked to observe alcohol ban

PHUKET: As a mark of respect for Asarnha Bucha and Buddhist Lent this Thursday and Friday, respectively, bars and other sellers of alcohol on the island are being asked to observe an alcohol ban on the two Buddhist holidays.

Businesses are asked not to serve alcohol from midnight on Wednesday night until midnight on Friday night.

Kathu Police Superintendent Col Grissak Songmoonnak told the Gazette, “It is not illegal for bars to sell alcohol, but like other [police] superintendents around the island, I have received an official letter from the local District Chief asking the police to try to ensure that alcohol is not sold on both days.”

Similarly, Chalong Police Superintendent Col Samarn Chainarong said, “I have received a letter from the District Chief asking me for co-operation from bars in my area to show respect on these important days for Buddhists.”

Wonder what the fine is if they don't observe the alcohol ban?  You can bet all the corner shops are selling.

Well BIB usually ignores establishments that serve, especially if its low key.

Hi

Just came from Phuket to Nai Harn, there was a few bars there was open