Bangkok Songkran Festival
April 12-14
The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merriment
all over the city, but most notably at Sanam Luang,
near the Grand Palace, where the revered Phra Phuttha
Sihing image is displayed and bathed by devotees. In
the Wisutkasat area, a Miss Songkran beauty contest
is held and accompanied by merit-making and entertainment.
Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu area is also one of the high-spots
in the city to experience the water-throwing activities
between locals and tourists.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
May
An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang,
in which farmers believe is able to forecast the abundance
of the next rice crop. The event is a result of a
series of ceremonies that are conducted by Phraya
Raek Na, portrayed by a high-ranking official from
the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives who wears
colourful traditional costumes. This ceremony was
re-introduced in 1960 by H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej
and is considered the official commencement of the
rice-growing season.
H.M. The Queen’s Birthday Celebration
August 12
To display their loyalty and to honour Her Majesty
Queen Sirikit on the occasion of her royal birthday,
the Thai people decorate their houses and public buildings.
Around Bangkok, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the area around
the Grand Palace and other well-known locations are
bedecked with coloured lights and magnificent adornments.
Trooping of the Colours
December
Their majesties the King and Queen preside over this
impressive annual event, held in the Royal Plaza near
the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn. Dressed
in colourful uniforms, amid much pomp and ceremony,
members of the elite Royal Guards swear allegiance
to the King and march past members of the Royal Family.
H.M. The King’s Birthday Celebrations
December 5
H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest
reigning monarch is well beloved and deeply respected
by all Thais old and young. The occasion of his royal
birthday provides his loyal subjects the opportunity
to express their reverence for him. All over the country,
buildings and homes are elaborated and the area around
the Grand Palace is spectacularly illuminated.
