Decoding Christmas Celebrations in Thailand: Is It a Grinchy Salvation or Just Another Normal Day?

With Christmas just around the corner, some might be surprised to learn that in Thailand, the spirit of the holiday is quite different from what they are used to in Western countries. Indeed, December 25th in Thailand is often just another day in the land of smiles, and the celebratory atmosphere is generally subdued compared to the festive displays seen in the West.

Thais, particularly in major cities, do put up Christmas trees and participate in some Christmas traditions, but the enthusiasm is definitely toned down. They are particularly fascinated by Santa Claus, making the red and white outfits a common sight even in unexpected months like April. In one memorable image, we see Santa Claus enjoying a local Thai celebration, likely a festive milestone for the Thais who warmly embrace his presence, albeit perhaps a bit more than necessary.

The Misunderstood Grinch

For some, the observance of Christmas in Thailand might seem reminiscent of someone playing the role of a Grinch, rejecting the traditional display of joy and celebration. However, for many Thais, it is simply business as usual. Last year was a case in point: I attended a New Year’s party that was held on Christmas Day, yet the mention of it being Christmas was as rare as catch-22 references in everyday conversation. Indeed, it was more akin to a normal workday with the added perk of a company party.

Santa All Year Long?

The presence of Santa Claus in Thailand is less about wish fulfillment and more about a year-round spectacle. On my last visit to Thailand, my wife surprised me with an old photo that showed an out-of-place Santa in April—likely part of a Valentine’s Day theme or another festive occasion. According to my wife, this photo was there to prove that I had always been a rather derisive presence, akin to a Grinch who could not get past the commercialism and sentimentality of the holiday.

However, as someone familiar with the local culture, I view it differently. To me, it is just another iteration of Santa in Thailand, simply trying to make a living and find his place in the local festivities, much like any other vendor might be selling peanuts on the streets of Bangkok during the holiday season.

Christmas Decorations and Celebrations in Thailand

In Bangkok, you can find Christmas trees in some office buildings and malls, but these are more for show than actual celebrations. Mall decorations are, however, fairly common and designed primarily for the benefit of foreign visitors and the local businesses that capitalize on the holiday atmosphere. These decorations often help develop the holiday as much as possible since it is a commercial endeavor rather than a personal observance.

On a trip to a local Bangkok mall, I spotted a holiday-themed display for my kids to try ice skating, complete with protective pads. Similarly, in another mall, a smaller ice skating rink stood beside a simple holiday-themed display. There is even a larger scale decoration theme, but the actual significance of the holiday to the local population is relatively minimal.

Conclusion

In the end, Christmas in Thailand is a mix of commercial interest and mild observance. While some might see it as a missed opportunity for a more joyous celebration, for most Thais, it is simply a day like any other, marked by some holiday festivities but not to the same degree as in Western countries.