Thailand Celebrates the Birthday of Their King

King’s Birthday Date: December 5

King’s Birthday is a public holiday in Thailand.

King’s Birthday—or sometimes called Father’s Day—is celebrated on December 5, the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, ruling monarch of Thailand. The King’s birthday, or Wan Chalerm as it is known in Thailand, is a national holiday and is celebrated nationwide with great enthusiasm. The event is used by the loyal people of Thailand to express their reverence for their king.

History of King’s Birthday in Thailand

King Bhumibol Adulyadej was born on December 5, 1927. He was crowned King of Thailand on June 9, 1946, and is now the longest serving monarch in the world. The King holds a special place in the hearts of the Thai people for his devotion to the welfare of his people, offering an understanding of social and political issues that affect Thailand. The King has provided a solid base for the country in times of social turmoil. Despite being a constitutional monarch, the King has made several political interventions to stop political quarrels and has helped Thailand usher a smooth transition to democracy.

Thailand’s King’s Birthday Traditions, Customs and Activities

The King’s Birthday is an important day for Thailand, during which the Thai people express their heartfelt affection for their king. Yellow flags and lights decorate buildings and homes all over Thailand. Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is decorated with exuberant flower arrangements, especially along Ratchadamnoen Avenue. Religious ceremonies are held countrywide with people praying for the king’s wellbeing. During the evening there are elaborate fireworks displays in the skies of Bangkok while thousands of people fill the streets wearing yellow t-shits to celebrate the king’s birthday. People travel from all cities around Thailand to catch a glimpse of the monarch, even if only to see the king’s car in the middle of his motorcade.

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H.M. The King’s Birthday
Thailand
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On 5 December each year, the nation celebrates the birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Throughout the kingdom homes and businesses are decorated with portraits of the king as well as royal and national flags. Much of Bangkok, particularly in historic Rattakosin district, is elaborately decorated with flags and giant portraits of the beloved Thai king.

On the morning of the king’s birthday many people visit temples to make merit, while festive celebrations are held across the kingdom throughout the day.

On the birthday of the King of Thailand, a special alms-giving ceremony at temples in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music and culture at Sanam Luang in Bangkok. Visitors can also appreciate the beauty of the decorations along Ratchadamnoen Avenue.
The King’s birthday is also National Father’s Day, and Thai’s gather with their families to honor their fathers and grandfathers as well

The Thai people recognize the king as the most influential figure in modern Thai history and wish to show their support and admiration for him.

A Celebration of Women

sends our blessings to all the Women of our World in Thailand.

Celebrate the King’s Birthday!