Thai Mother's Day

Thai Mother's Day (วันแม่แห่งชาติ, Wan Mae Haeng Chat) is a national holiday in Thailand observed on August 12th each year. Unlike most countries that celebrate Mother's Day in May, Thailand's Mother's Day falls on the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother and wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). The day celebrates all mothers in Thailand while also honouring the Queen Mother, who is regarded as the mother of the nation.

Thai Mother's Day was first established in 1976, initially celebrated on March 15. In 1976, the government under Prime Minister Seni Pramoj officially moved Mother's Day to August 12 to coincide with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, born on August 12, 1932. Queen Sirikit has long been revered by the Thai people for her extensive charitable work, including projects supporting rural communities, silk weaving, and environmental conservation. She served as Queen consort from 1950 until King Bhumibol's death in 2016 — a reign of 66 years.

On Thai Mother's Day, children present jasmine flowers to their mothers. The jasmine (ดอกมะลิ, dok mali) symbolises the pure and unconditional love of a mother. Schools hold ceremonies where children kneel before their mothers and present flowers and garlands. Light blue is the colour of the day, as it is associated with Friday, the day Queen Sirikit was born. Many Thais wear light blue clothing, and buildings are decorated with the Queen Mother's portraits and blue bunting. Buddhist merit-making ceremonies are held at temples, and the government hosts formal celebrations.