An alcohol sales ban will be in effect in Hua Hin and across Prachuap Khiri Khan province this weekend due to local elections.
The ban will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, 31st January, and remain in place until 6 p.m. on Saturday, 1st February.
The restriction follows Thai election law, which prohibits the sale, distribution, and consumption of alcohol during elections in affected provinces. The measure is intended to ensure a smooth and orderly voting process. While Bangkok is exempt from the ban, it will apply in 47 provinces where elections for Provincial Administrative Organisations (PAOs) are taking place.
During the ban, entertainment venues, bars, and clubs will be required to close. Restaurants may remain open but will not be permitted to serve alcohol.
PAOs are responsible for overseeing local governance, including infrastructure management, public health, education, and community development projects. The elections are being held in line with legal requirements, which mandate that new officials be elected within 45 days of the previous term’s conclusion. The current PAO term ended on 19th December 2024.
More than 90,000 polling stations will be set up nationwide, managed by local authorities and the Election Commission. Those who violate the alcohol ban face a penalty of up to six months’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.