Festivals
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. 
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. |