Bangkok clubs can now open until 4 AM as curfew is extended

Clubs in several Thailand cities can now stay open till 4 AM as the new curfew extension is in effect in specific nightlife areas.

Thailand's cabinet approved a measure to extend the curfew by two hours, from 2 AM to 4 AM, in an effort to boost tourism in the nightlife districts of Bangkok, Phuket, Pattya, Chiang Mai and Samui back in November 2023. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin initially announced the new curfew would go into effect on 15th December, then it was officially set for this past New Year's Eve, 31st December, Resident Advisor reports. 

In Bangkok, the extension is limited to the entertainment zones of Silom, Patpong and Ratchadapisek. "I'd assume that initially this won't have a huge direct impact on underground music", Bangkok Community Radio's Frank Navari told RA. "The three areas that have been listed lean more towards the commercial side of dance music, with relatively high rent prices compared to other parts of the city".

The new late curfew in the select cities is a pilot phase of the measure, in coordination with Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, province governors, Royal Thai Police, Ministry of Tourism and Sports and related agencies, The Nation reports. It will be re-evaluated and has the potential to expand to other regions. 

Last month, 808 Festival Bangkok hosted its 10th anniversary edition with David Guetta, Alok, Oliver Heldens and more.