Written by Team Expique
Published: September 10, 2024
Even today, December 5 is celebrated as Father’s Day and serves as a remembrance of King Bhumibol, honoring his birthday.
This article and the activities mentioned are based on 2020. This article has not been updated for 2021.
The History and Future of King Bhumibol’s Birthday
King Bhumibol, who was born on December 5, 1927, in Massachusetts, USA, was deeply respected throughout Thailand. His birthday has historically been a time for widespread celebrations and festivities across the nation. Following his passing in 2016, this day has also become an annual moment to honor the late king.
King Bhumibol is revered as a symbolic father figure in Thailand, making December 5 a nationwide celebration of Father’s Day, paralleling Mother’s Day on August 12, Queen Sirikit’s birthday. This tradition has continued unchanged since his death. On Father’s Day, Thai people show respect to their fathers and grandfathers, often offering them the canna flower, known in Thai as dok phuttha raksa (ดอกพุทธรักษา), which resembles a lily.
Celebrations in Bangkok and Across Thailand
King Bhumibol’s birthday on December 5 has historically been marked by various celebrations and candlelit ceremonies across Thailand, from large public events to intimate local gatherings.
Traditionally, many Thais would flood the streets to pay homage to the king, often camping out the night before to secure a good view of the king’s speech. Attendees typically wear yellow shirts, a color which symbolizes Monday—the day of the king’s birth. This practice is rooted in astrological beliefs influenced by Hindu mythology, associating colors with the days of the week. For example, Queen Sirikit’s birthday on a Friday is represented by light blue attire.
While the tradition of wearing these colors has seen a decline in recent years, it saw a revival during the 2006 celebrations marking the king’s diamond jubilee.
While the specifics of this year’s celebrations for King Bhumibol’s birthday remain to be seen, it is likely that the tradition of elaborate light displays will continue in key locations in Bangkok, such as Ratchadamnoen Avenue and around the Grand Palace. Traditional ceremonies are typically held at Sanam Luang royal ceremonial ground, which notably hosted King Bhumibol’s cremation.
In Hua Hin, where King Bhumibol spent considerable time at Klai Kangwon Palace, one can also expect significant celebrations in honor of the king’s birthday, as it has been the site for many high-profile royal events.
Given the scale of this occasion, festivities held across Thailand are likely to persist in the years to come.
What’s Happening in Bangkok This Year (2020)
Celebrations will take place in various locations throughout Bangkok from December 1 to 6. Popular sites like the Grand Palace, Saranrom Palace Park, Museum Siam, Wat Pho, Wat Ratchapradit, Wat Ratchabophit, and Sanam Chai Road will be open from 10 AM to 9 PM.
This time is cherished for families to come together and spend quality moments. Many hotels are preparing special lunch and dinner menus to accommodate families celebrating together.
Activities on Sanam Chai Road, Saranrom Palace Park, and Museum Siam
Numerous engaging activities will be hosted from December 1 to 6 (10 AM – 9 PM).
Sanam Chai Road: Exhibition of King Rama 9’s royal projects (daily); Marching Band starting from Museum Siam (December 1-4, and 6 at 6 PM); Special performance parade commencing from Museum Siam (December 1-4, and 6 at 5:30 PM).
Sanam Chai Road – Saranrom Park: Hall of Fame featuring a photo exhibition of King Rama 9.
Ministry of Defence: Special performances and 3D video exhibitions (two rounds daily, at 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM and 8:15 PM – 9 PM).
Visiting the Grand Palace?
The Grand Palace will be open for evening visits (4:30 PM – 9 PM) until December 6 with no admission fee for both locals and expats.
Have you celebrated King Bhumibol’s birthday in Bangkok or elsewhere in Thailand in the past? Will you be here for this occasion this year? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Photos by That Hartford Guy; Eric Molina; Benoit Mortgat; edwin.11
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