When and where
When: 28 July
Rule: Fixed date. 2026: Tuesday 28 July; 2027: Wednesday 28 July.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About King's Birthday
On 28 July Thailand celebrates the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X). Across the country buildings are decorated with yellow flags and portraits, and in the evening there are candlelight ceremonies and light shows. In Bangkok Ratchadamnoen Avenue fills with flowers and lights. Government offices and many shops are closed; temples hold ceremonies and many people wear yellow. The day is a public holiday: offices are closed and it is respectful to wear neat clothes, preferably yellow or bright colours.
Getting there
Ratchadamnoen is near Democracy Monument; take a taxi or bus from Siam.
Highlights
- Yellow decorations Flags and portraits colour streets and government buildings.
- Candlelight ceremony People gather with candles and sing the anthem.
- Ratchadamnoen The avenue is lit with light installations.
Tips for King's Birthday
- In 2026 Asarnha Bucha follows on 29 July, creating a long break.
- Check whether attractions are open.
- Dress neatly.
King's Birthday 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 Ratchadamnoen Avenue in Bangkok, with many decorations and ceremonies.
Frequently asked questions about King's Birthday
When is King's Birthday in 2026?
King's Birthday falls in 2026 on 28 July and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Grand Palace, Bangkok. Rule: 28 July. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
When is King's Birthday in 2027?
King's Birthday falls in 2027 on 28 July and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Grand Palace, Bangkok. Rule: 28 July. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see King's Birthday?
Watch it best at Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Grand Palace, Bangkok. Flags and portraits colour streets and government buildings. Ratchadamnoen is near Democracy Monument; take a taxi or bus from Siam. People gather with candles and sing the anthem. Highlight: Ratchadamnoen – The avenue is lit with light installations.
Festivals near Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Grand Palace, Bangkok
- Constitution Day 0 km as the crow flies
- Wat Saket Golden Mount Fair 1 km as the crow flies
- Royal Ploughing Ceremony 1 km as the crow flies
- Mother's Day (Queen Mother's Birthday) 1 km as the crow flies
- Father's Day and National Day 1 km as the crow flies
Also in July
- Asarnha Bucha
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival
- Khao Phansa (start of Buddhist Lent)
- Lamphun Longan Fair