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.
Loy
Kratong Festival
November
In the festival, besides floating 'Kratongs', folk people will
participate in the rite to worship King Ramkhamhaeng, the historic
king of Siam, see the 'Sukhothai: the Ancient Capital' light and
sound presentation and enjoy decoration of colorful lanterns,
'Kratong' processions, 'Miss Nopphamat' contest and ancient Thai
fireworks.
Royal
Ploughing Ceremony
May
An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang, in which
farmers believe is 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.
H.M.
The Queen’s 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.
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.
H.M.
The King’s 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. |
