In Thailand, H.M. King's Birthday is observed annually on July 28th, honoring the birth of the country's monarch, Vajiralongkorn, born in 1952. This significant cultural occasion serves as a time for Thai citizens to honor their monarchy and embrace their national heritage.
King's Birthday Celebrations
On this significant day, numerous ceremonies are conducted to commemorate the King's birthday. Attendees, adorned in the auspicious color of yellow, representing the day (Monday) of the King's birth, gather to express their deep reverence for the monarchy. They come together to pay their utmost respects to His Majesty, offering ceremonial tributes and uniting to sing the "Royal Anthem." Additionally, felicitous poems are eloquently recited in both English and Thai, with all attendees joining in the touching rendition of the "Sadudee Jomracha Song." This collective expression of devotion and celebration reflects the profound respect and admiration for the King among the people.
A very spectacular event of King's Birthday is Sea Turtle Conservation in Chonburi province. More than a hundred people gather together to release the turtles into the sea. Thai people believe that releasing animals as it's a step toward a successful and happy fate. By the way, a turtle is a symbol of a long life. By releasing them, they wish their monarch to have long and blessed life years.
History of the Celebration
Vajiralongkorn, born on July 28, 1952, is the only son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. At 20, he became crown prince. Following his father's passing on October 13, 2016, he waited before ascending the throne, which he accepted on December 1, 2016. His coronation occurred from May 4 to May 6, 2019. Despite the delay, his reign retroactively began on October 13, 2016. Known as RAMA X, he's the tenth monarch of the Chakri dynasty. Taking the throne at 64, he became Thailand's oldest monarch.
Previously celebrated on December 5, King's Birthday now falls on July 28, since 2017. December 5 still marks a public holiday in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday. On H.M. King's Birthday, most banks, government offices, and businesses close, while shops remain open, and there's no ban on alcohol sales.
