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 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.
H.M. The Kings 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.
H.M. The Queens 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.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
May
An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang, in which farmers
is believe to be 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.
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.
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