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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