Thai King's Birthday

The King's Birthday (วันเฉลิมพระชนมพรรษา พระบาทสมเด็จพระเจ้าอยู่หัว) is a Thai national holiday observed on July 28th each year. It celebrates the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), who was born on July 28, 1952. The day is a major national celebration and serves as Thailand's National Day, honouring the reigning monarch and expressing the deep bond between the Thai people and their King.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn, born on July 28, 1952, is the son of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit. He was educated in Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Australia, and received military training at the Royal Military College, Duntroon in Australia. He became the Crown Prince in 1972 and ascended to the throne on October 13, 2016, following his father's passing. His formal coronation took place on May 4, 2019. The King's Birthday has been a public holiday since his accession, replacing the former National Day which was held on King Bhumibol's birthday.

On the King's Birthday, Thais wear yellow — the colour associated with Monday, the day the King was born — to show their respect and loyalty. Government buildings, streets, and homes are decorated with royal portraits and yellow bunting. Merit-making ceremonies take place at Buddhist temples nationwide. In the evening, candlelight ceremonies are held in public squares, and people gather to sing the royal anthem. The Grand Palace and major landmarks in Bangkok are illuminated. Many Thais also perform acts of charity and volunteer for community service as a way to honour the King.