Boozehounds are advised to stock up on supplies this weekend ahead of Makha Bucha Day on Monday when alcohol sales will be banned.
Police officers will be dropping in on retailers, bars and restaurants, and other venues to monitor against alcohol sales on the national Buddhist holiday.
They will also crack down on drink driving, with road checkpoints set up from midnight on Sunday to midnight on Monday.
Anyone found to be driving under the influence could face up to six months in jail, and/or a fine of up to THB10,000.
The public holiday marks the anniversary of Buddha’s first major sermon, when he ordained around 1,250 monks and taught them the basic principles of Buddhism.
Thais traditionally start the day by giving alms to monks, then go to the temple in the evening to listen to sermons and take part in the Wien Tien candelight ceremony.
Still, if you’re desperate to buy some booze on the day, you can always hop on a flight — duty free shops at international airports are still allowed to sell the good stuff.
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