How Visitors to Bangkok Can Celebrate the Queen's Birthday

August 12this a date that holds a special place in the heart of Thai people. It is the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the queen consort of King Rama IX (King Bhumibol Adulyadej). Every year on this date, residents of Bangkok gather to take part in candle lighting ceremonies to mark the occasion, a spectacle that is repeated at locations all across the country in a show of affection for the Queen. As a tourist, you are more than welcome to join in these celebrations and if you do, the Thai people around you are sure to appreciate the gesture.

What to See & Do

Below is a summary of places to go and things to do if you would like to share this special day with the locals.

1. Thanon Ratchadamnoen Linking the Grand Palace with the palace in Dusit, this historic road in central Bangkok has been the site of many demonstrations over the years but on August 12th, the only thing being demonstrated is the love that the Thai people have for their queen. The buildings that line the road are bedecked with thousands of beautiful, coloured lights, Thai flags and portraits of Queen Sirikit.
2. Sanam Luang After walking along Ratchadamnoen Avenue towards the Grand Palace, you can gather with the rest of the crowds in Sanam Luang, where the biggest candle lighting ceremony in the city is held. Buy yourself a candle “ in a beautiful holder - and prepare to light it together with the rest of the crowd at 19.29 exactly. Once all the candles are lit, the people around you will sing traditional songs in praise of the queen. In addition to the beautiful spectacle created by the huge number of candles being held aloft in the tropical night sky, you can look forward to a spectacular fireworks display. Thousands of people queue to sign an official guest book to show that they were there on the night but you do not have to do this unless you really want to.
3. Citywide Celebrations If you cannot make it to Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Sanam Luang on the night, there is no need to worry that you will miss out on the celebrations on this auspicious occasion. Wherever you happen to be in the Thai capital on August 12th, you can be sure that there will be a candle lighting ceremony near you, along with musical performances and other shows to keep the crowds entertained.

August 12th is Also Mother's Day in Thailand

The royal family is revered by Thai people and the King and Queen are considered as the father and mother of the nation. It is for this reason that Mother's Day in Thailand was moved, in 1976, to coincide with the Queen's birthday. If you should be staying at one of our Centre Point hotels or our serviced apartments in Thonglor on August 12th, we sincerely hope that you will join us in celebrating the Queen's birthday and Mother's Day too.