This week the country celebrated yet another holiday, probably one of the biggest of the year..the king’s birthday. In Thailand, the king is revered by all and this is more than apparent when the big day arrives. It is a big deal! Whatever you do when you are in this country, do not diss the king or any member of his family. Breaking any of the lese majeste laws in this country can result in serious fines and prison time.
King Bhumipol Adulyadej was born on December 5, and this day is now celebrated as Father’s Day across Thailand. Thai people may give a dok Buddha ruksa (also known as a canna flower) to their fathers and grandfathers on this day. Many people also wear yellow, which is the king’s color. This day is also celebrated as National Day. The reverence in which the people of Thailand hold their king cannot be overestimated. A lot of smaller shops are closed and alcohol is not sold for the duration of the day.
On Wednesday, I took part in the annual “We Love the King” parade as part of one of the expat contingents. The starting point was a twenty minute scooter trip from our place. We were well represented throughout the parade as representatives of various local associations. It was a great chance to meet up with other expats living here and exchange contact info and thoughts. We ended up being the third group in the parade so were very close to the front as we walked the two mile stretch from JJ’s Market along Route 1141 into the heart of the city, ending at the famous Thapae Gate landmark.
I can’t remember the last time i was in a parade but it has certainly been awhile. It was interesting being on the inside of the fish bowl and being waved at and photographed by the many locals and tourists along the way. Somebody did a lot of organizing somewhere along the way. It was mass chaos at the starting point but somehow everybody managed to get in their right spots and directed out onto the highway by the organizers. There were a huge number of participants scattered over a very large area to deal with. On a slightly negative side, I had to retrace my steps back to the starting point by foot when it was all over! Although I tried to hail a sangtoew along the way, I had no luck. It was just too far out of the way. I can say now that four miles is a long ways to walk in sandals!
On Friday evening, the festivities continued at Thapae Gate with speeches and entertainment into the night. Dozens of local groups walk onto the stage to present dok Buddha ruksa to the king as a sign of respect and love for the monarchy. There were also several books set up around the grounds where people can sign and deliver birthday greetings.
Enjoy the pics and videos! BTW I’ll take this weather over snow any day 🙂
Looks like you’re having an amazing time. I am going to come visit you guys, just not sure when. My nephew is coming for a tour of China this Feb., so maybe May maybe 🙂
Yes, a good time is being had by all! It would be great to see you! I might head over to China sometime in the spring to visit my son in Changsha. Would fly directly to Wuhan from CM, visit for a couple of days, and then bullet train from there to his place.
Hello Steve, Saw your article through the International Living Postcards…well done! Looks like you are still having an awesome time. Ryan has moved to Darwin Australia…he is working there and loving it!
Hi Marjorie! I meant to get back to you about three weeks ago but then procrastinated until I forgot about it! That’s great you saw the article; I am doing a lot of writing for them these days. Looks like winter has definitely hit BC with a vengeance this year. Not missing the snow one iota:)