Introduction
Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant festivals. The country is also home to a diverse range of public holidays that reflect its religious and cultural diversity. In this article, we will explore the various public holidays in Thailand in 2021, their significance, and the celebrations associated with them.
New Year’s Day
January 1st is celebrated as New Year’s Day in Thailand. The holiday is a time for people to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the new one. Many celebrations take place across the country, including fireworks, temple visits, and family gatherings.
Chinesse New Year
Chinese New Year is a significant holiday in Thailand, especially for those of Chinese descent. The date of the holiday varies each year but usually falls in late January or early February. Celebrations include dragon and lion dances, temple visits, and the exchanging of red envelopes filled with money.
Makha Bucha Day
Makha Bucha Day is a Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day when 1,250 of Buddha’s disciples gathered to hear him preach. The holiday falls on the full moon day of the third lunar month, which usually falls in February or March. Celebrations include temple visits, candlelit processions, and merit-making activities.
Chakri Day
Chakri Day is a holiday that celebrates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty, which still rules Thailand today. The holiday falls on April 6th each year and includes a wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of King Rama I, who founded the dynasty.
Songkran Festival
The Songkran Festival is one of the biggest and most popular festivals in Thailand, marking the traditional Thai New Year. The festival falls on April 13th to 15th and includes water fights, processions, and merit-making activities. It is a time for people to cleanse themselves and start the new year fresh.
Labor Day
May 1st is celebrated as Labor Day in Thailand, a day to honor workers and their contributions to society. Many people take the day off to relax and spend time with family and friends.
Visakha Bucha Day
Visakha Bucha Day is another important Buddhist holiday that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. The holiday falls on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month, which usually falls in May or June. Celebrations include temple visits, candlelit processions, and merit-making activities.
Asanha Bucha Day
Asanha Bucha Day is a Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day when Buddha delivered his first sermon. The holiday falls on the full moon day of the eighth lunar month, which usually falls in July. Celebrations include temple visits, candlelit processions, and merit-making activities.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday
King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday is a national holiday in Thailand that celebrates the birthday of the current king. The holiday falls on July 28th each year and includes a ceremony at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Queen Sirikit’s Birthday
Queen Sirikit’s Birthday is a national holiday in Thailand that celebrates the birthday of the queen dowager. The holiday falls on August 12th each year and includes a ceremony at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Chulalongkorn Day
Chulalongkorn Day is a holiday that celebrates the life and legacy of King Chulalongkorn, who is widely considered one of Thailand’s greatest kings. The holiday falls on October 23rd each year and includes a wreath-laying ceremony at his statue in Bangkok.
Loy Krathong Festival
The Loy Krathong Festival is a popular festival in Thailand that takes place on the full moon day of the 12th lunar month, which usually falls in November. The festival involves floating small baskets made of banana leaves and decorated with flowers and candles on rivers and canals. It is a time for people to make wishes and let go of bad luck.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s Birthday
King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s Birthday is a national holiday in Thailand that celebrates the birthday of the late king. The holiday falls on December 5th each year and includes a ceremony at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Constitution Day
Constitution Day is a holiday that celebrates the adoption of Thailand’s first constitution in 1932. The holiday falls on December 10th each year and includes a ceremony at the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Bangkok.
Christmas Day
Although not a public holiday in Thailand, Christmas Day is celebrated by many Christians across the country. The holiday is a time for people to attend mass, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends.
Conclusion
Thailand is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse range of public holidays. Whether you are a tourist or a local, these holidays offer a unique opportunity to experience the country’s traditions, customs, and celebrations. By understanding the significance of each holiday and planning your trips accordingly, you can make the most of your time in Thailand and create unforgettable memories.
