Date: 12 August 2012
Venue: Nationwide

August 12 is H.M. the Queen’s birthday and is celebrated nationwide. This public holiday is also Thailand’s Mother’s Day because Her Majesty is revered as the mother of the nation. Flags and portraits of Her Majesty are displayed all over the country, and both sides of Ratchadamnoen Road are decorated with beautiful flowers and fairy lights.

The celebration of this event usually starts early in the morning with Thai people going to the temple, offering alms to the monks, and listening to Buddhist sermons. It is then followed by concerts, cultural shows, and traditional dances in the major cities, the major venue being Sanam Luang in Bangkok.  

Highlight: The most beautiful ceremony of this event is the Candle Lighting Ceremony which takes place simultaneously around the country on the night of 12 August. The main event at Sanam Luang is broadcaston television, so you can see millions of people holding lit candles while singing a song to praise H.M. the Queen. This magnificent ceremony concludes with a colourful fireworks display. 

Contact: TAT Call Centre: 1672
Website: www.tourismthailand.org