When and where
When: 6 April
Rule: Fixed date. 2026: Monday 6 April; 2027: Tuesday 6 April.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Chakri Memorial Day
On 6 April Thailand commemorates the founding of the Chakri dynasty in 1782 by King Rama I, the first king of the current house. The day falls just before Songkran. Wreaths are laid at the statue of Rama I beside the Memorial Bridge and ceremonies are held at Wat Phra Kaew. It is a national day off, often used to start travelling ahead of Songkran.
Getting there
Memorial Bridge is by MRT Sanam Chai; also reachable by river boat.
Highlights
- Wreaths for Rama I Delegations lay wreaths at the statue beside the bridge.
- Memorial Bridge The bridge and park form the commemoration site.
- Travel rush Many Thais start heading home for Songkran.
Tips for Chakri Memorial Day
- Expect busy roads and airports around this day.
- Dress neatly at temples and palaces.
- Banks and government offices are closed.
Chakri Memorial Day on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The location on the map is approximate.
National holiday; the map shows Memorial Bridge/the old town in Bangkok. Ceremonies take place at Wat Phra Kaew and the statue of King Rama I.
Frequently asked questions about Chakri Memorial Day
When is Chakri Memorial Day in 2026?
Chakri Memorial Day falls in 2026 on 6 April and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Wat Phra Kaew and Memorial Bridge, Bangkok. Rule: 6 April. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
When is Chakri Memorial Day in 2027?
Chakri Memorial Day falls in 2027 on 6 April and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Wat Phra Kaew and Memorial Bridge, Bangkok. Rule: 6 April. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Chakri Memorial Day?
Watch it best at Wat Phra Kaew and Memorial Bridge, Bangkok. Delegations lay wreaths at the statue beside the bridge. Memorial Bridge is by MRT Sanam Chai; also reachable by river boat. The bridge and park form the commemoration site. Highlight: Travel rush – Many Thais start heading home for Songkran.
Festivals near Wat Phra Kaew and Memorial Bridge, Bangkok
- Chinese New Year Yaowarat (Bangkok) 1 km as the crow flies
- Yaowarat Vegetarian Festival (Bangkok) 1 km as the crow flies
- Thod Kathin and Royal Barge Procession 1 km as the crow flies
- King Bhumibol Memorial Day 1 km as the crow flies
- Coronation Day 1 km as the crow flies
Also in April
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao)
- Phra Pradaeng Mon Songkran
- Sangkhlaburi Mon Songkran (Wat Wang Wiwekaram)
- Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)