10 Things to Do in Bangkok in December

During the month of December you can enjoy the best things to do in Bangkok. This bustling city is a cityscape of celebrations and entertaining activities. You can take part in traditional festivities such as Loy Krathong or the King's Birthday.

You can also experience a slightly different but equally magical Christmas by visiting temples and shopping malls. Other activities can be done in other months, but during December there is a magical touch that only this season can offer. For example, cruises on the Chao Phraya River.

The Festival of Light or Loy Krathong can be celebrated in December or November, depending on the calendar. It is one of the most beautiful and romantic celebrations in Thailand. Some even refer to it as Thai Valentine's Day.

This festival is celebrated after the rainy season, so the rivers are clean and the moon is clear. Right in Bangkok you can experience this celebration. Hotels often organise special events in their swimming pools. There are also festivals along the Chao Phraya River in which you can participate.

The main events include an overview of the history of Loy Krathong through traditional dances and music. You can also visit popular parks such as Lumpini Park, Benjasiri Park and Benjakitti Park. Here you can release your own Krathong or illuminated balloon.

Another option to participate in this festival is to visit Bangkok's best temples. Among them, Wat Pho and Wat Arun stand out. Some recommendations to enjoy this celebration much more is to wear light clothes, as it is always hot in Bangkok, but don't wear shorts and sleeveless shirts! When lighting the lamp, be careful to follow all the instructions to the letter!

When you go on a Christmas holiday to Bangkok, you won't have time to miss Christmas, in Bangkok you can celebrate it! One of the best ways to do so is to visit the Great Gatsby Christmas Market. Every year it is held at the K-Village, a very elegant shopping mall in Sukhumvit.

Despite not being a bank holiday, Christmas has become a holiday that many Thais have taken the liberty to celebrate. For this reason, the Great Gatsby Market takes it upon itself to capture the Christmas atmosphere and spirit so that everyone can celebrate here.

Inside the market you can find quite an attractive gastronomic offer. If you would like to go on a food tour in Bangkok, then I invite you to stroll around the 150 food and drink stalls. You will have the possibility to taste delicious tropical wines, traditional Bangkok dishes and other international recipes typical of the time.

Interesting details

• Price: No entrance fee is required to enter the market.
• Opening hours: The market is open during December.
• Location: 93, Klongtan, Klongtoey 95 Soi Sukhumvit 26, Bangkok 10110, Thailand.

King Bhumibol Adulyadej was one of Thailand's longest reigning monarchs. His birthday is celebrated every year on the fifth of December throughout the country. If you travel to Bangkok during this date, you can find different places to celebrate, either in the morning or in the evening.

Around 10am you can go to the Dusit Palace (Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall). Here the current king makes his annual appearance in front of 200,000 people. The event is also broadcast on national television.

In the evening, around nine o'clock, you can go to the esplanade (Sanamluan) in front of the Grand Palace. From there you can watch the city's and the country's leading politicians give a speech. The monarchy's anthem is also sung and candles are lit in front of the picture of the celebrated king as a sign of respect.

At the same time, in various parts of the city, locals light candles in their homes. The king's birthday is not the only occasion on which he is remembered. If you look closely, you will see that many Thais keep pictures of the king in their homes or establishments.

One of Thailand's national holidays is Constitution Day. The official granting of the country's first constitution occurred on 10 December 1934 by King Rama VII. This event marked the first charter after a political transformation. Since then, this date has been celebrated every year on 10 December.

At the time of the drafting of the constitution, the country was suffering from the economic effects of the Great Depression. Faced with the crisis situation, several military and intellectuals formed a people's party. This group proposed to the king to reduce his power, but to keep him in control, by means of a constitutional monarchy.

To take part in this celebration, all you have to do is take a stroll around Bangkok. You can even take a Hop on Hop off Bus tour and pass by the sites of the fireworks parades. It will also be common to see pictures of the king in different establishments.

Another way to celebrate Christmas in Bangkok is to enjoy a Christmas concert. If you love Christmas carols and are homesick during this time of the year, this is the plan for you! You have nothing to worry about, as although Buddhism is the main faith throughout the country, Thailand is very religiously tolerant.

For a good Christmas concert you can go to Bangkok's Assumption Cathedral, a beautiful and impressive building that is well worth a visit. You can also visit St Joseph's Church in the Portuguese settlement of Ayutthaya, a few hours' drive from Bangkok.

These and other religious sites offer Christmas concerts, especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas Eve. However, there is no calendar of concerts that you can check before you go. For this reason, I recommend you go to one of these churches in advance and ask.

New Year is a worldwide celebration that you can also experience in a big way in Bangkok. One of the best ways to celebrate is by visiting Central World Plaza, the largest shopping mall in Thailand. This place is known for its impressive fireworks display on this date, so be prepared to see it with your own eyes!

When you go there you are sure to see thousands of people gathered around waiting for the show to begin. The event lasts approximately 15 minutes and the lights are synchronised to the music. Before the light show, you can stroll through all the shops in the mall, visit the cafes and restaurants. The whole place is a spectacle adorned with Christmas lights.

While visiting this place, you can stop by the ice rink and cool off from the heat of the Bangkok day. Skate with your friends and have a different time before celebrating the New Year. This activity will help you make time as the hours go by. However, be sure to arrive early and find a comfortable spot.

Details of interest

• Price: No entrance fee is required to enter the market.
• Hours: You can visit the mall throughout the month. New Year's Eve celebration takes place on 31 December.
• Location: 4, 5 Ratchadamri Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.

Traveler Tip
For the celebration of this day I recommend wearing comfortable and light clothing. Also, it is best to wear comfortable shoes that allow you to stand for a long time.

Cruises on the Chao Phraya River are a favourite activity for all tourists visiting Bangkok. In December this is a very special experience thanks to the pleasant weather and the Christmas lights that illuminate the banks of the river.

Keep in mind that you can choose between a sightseeing cruise or a private cruise. However, they all offer a breathtaking view of the temples and historical monuments along the river. Also, on board the boat, you usually have the opportunity to sample delicious Thai food. Some even include an international buffet.

During the Christmas season, some cruise ships feature eye-catching decorations and live entertainment to brighten up your trip. You can enjoy amazing live concerts as well as traditional Thai music and dance performances. Some performances may include international Christmas music.

Please note that you should dress appropriately for the weather during this time of year. During December the weather is a little cooler, but the humidity in the air is still noticeable. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and a light jumper in case it gets too cold at night.

Tasting a country's cuisine is one of the best ways to get to know its culture and customs. Particularly during the winter, the Thais bring out their best hot food dishes. December is the best month to enjoy them, otherwise in summer you wouldn't be able to stand the heat.

You have different options to enjoy this food while visiting the city. One of them is to take cooking classes in Bangkok. These experiences are very exciting, as you have the opportunity to visit markets and choose fresh ingredients together with a chef. Afterwards, during the class, this person will share all his or her gastronomic secrets with you.

Another option is to take a tour of different restaurants in Bangkok. If you do so, I recommend ordering the most popular dish: khao soi. This is a recipe made with noodles and curry typical of northern Thailand. This dish is mixed with coconut milk and curry, served with chicken, pork or beef and a variety of vegetables.

Jok is another dish not to be missed. This pork and rice porridge is usually served for breakfast or dinner when the nights are a little chilly. It is usually seasoned with onion and ginger. I recommend you ask for recommendations at the restaurant you visit, they're sure to have a dish you'll love!

If you would like to take a day trip from Bangkok during December, I recommend a trip to Chon Buri province. This is where the Wonderfruit Festival is held every year during this month. To get there, it's about a two-hour drive.

You will definitely enjoy this celebration, as you will see different art and music exhibitions. In addition, you will be able to see different ecological and sustainability messages throughout the festival. You will also be able to participate in workshops and a variety of outdoor activities. Food is another of the main attractions of this celebration, you will find multiple food stalls all over the place!

I recommend you to keep an eye on the social networks of this festival, as the dates and prices vary yearly. However, keep in mind that the average price of a ticket for the whole weekend is €200. You should also consider staying in a nearby hotel in your budget, especially if you want to enjoy the whole festival.

Useful details

• Price: The average ticket price is €200.
• Duration: Festival dates vary annually.
• Location: The Fields at Siam Country Club, 50 Moo 9, Pong, Bang Lamung, Chonburi 20150, Thailand.

The Amphawa Floating Market is one of Bangkok's most popular attractions and if you're thinking of visiting, December may be the perfect time to do so. Most tourists during this time tend to visit Christmas events, so the market doesn't get too many visitors.

On the other hand, the weather is pleasant and you'll feel a cool breeze as you cruise along the river in a boat. From there you will have an excellent view of the floating lanterns that decorate the site, so it is a good idea to visit at night. Take advantage of the opportunity and take lots of pictures of this night-time spectacle.

Also, in this month you can enjoy a variety of special seasonal products. You will find fruits and vegetables typical of Thailand' s winter. You will also find international desserts such as gingerbread biscuits and candy canes.

A tour of Bangkok's floating markets is a unique experience in this city. Not only will you be able to buy delicious items and sweets, but also typical dishes prepared by the locals.

Interesting details

• Price: You do not need to buy a ticket to enjoy the market.
• Opening hours: The market is open all year round.
• Location: 30/1 หมู่ที่ 15 Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand.

Although Bangkok, like all of Thailand, maintains a fairly hot tropical climate for most of the year, during December temperatures vary between 21°C and 30°C. This makes it the best time to visit Bangkok if you don't want to get too hot.

On the other hand, the humidity in the air is lower compared to other months of the year, which makes the weather even more pleasant. Although rainfall is infrequent, there is a chance of light drizzle during the month. Bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes in case it rains during your stay.

The cool weather in December will give you the opportunity to go on walking tours of Bangkok, especially in the afternoons and evenings when the weather is cooler. On the other hand, you will find several interesting traditional celebrations. If you participate in one of them you will get a much better understanding of this interesting Asian culture.

Even though it is winter, you should never forget your sunscreen. Every time you go out you should apply a generous amount to your skin. The sun is always shining in Bangkok and you can be affected by its impact if you don't take certain precautions.

Due to the Christmas holidays, December is one of the busiest months for tourists in Bangkok. Not only this celebration attracts thousands of tourists, but also the weather. During this month it is more pleasant to do all kinds of walking tours, so people do not hesitate to book their flights and hotel rooms in advance.

In general, if you travel to Bangkok during winter you will find that the prices of experiences and hotels are high compared to other times. This is due to the number of people travelling at this time of year. My recommendation is to book in advance for most of the experiences you want to have in this city.