Constitution Day in Thailand
Thailand’s Constitution Day falls on December 10. It commemorates the permanent constitution granted by King Prajadhipok in 1932, after the change from absolute monarchy to constitutional government.[1][2]
Why December 10 matters
On June 24, 1932, the People’s Party revolution changed Siam’s system of government. An interim charter followed on June 27. On December 10, King Prajadhipok granted the first permanent constitution of Siam, making the date a milestone in the country’s constitutional history.[1]
The day remembers the granting of that first permanent constitution. Thailand has had later constitutions, so the date marks a historical turning point rather than the adoption of the country’s current constitution.[1]
A public holiday and a day off
Thailand’s official holiday calendar lists December 10 as Constitution Day. Labour law requires employers to announce at least 13 traditional holidays a year, including National Labour Day; employers choose these from public holidays, religious holidays and local customary holidays. Employees are entitled to pay for traditional holidays.[3][4]
The Bank of Thailand also lists Constitution Day as a holiday for financial institutions and specialised financial institutions. Its calendar is the useful reference for bank closures; individual branches and services may have their own arrangements.[5]
Commemorations and customs
An official parliamentary account describes Constitution Day observances that include paying respects at King Prajadhipok’s monument and a royal ceremony connected with presenting the constitution at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. The account also records that early celebrations included public events and educational activities, which later changed over time.[1]
The first Constitution Day celebrations in 1932 took place across the country and included performances, stalls and displays. These are historical descriptions, not a guide to events held every year today; check local announcements for current ceremonies or exhibitions.[2]
Planning your day
Because the date is on Thailand’s official holiday calendar and the Bank of Thailand’s financial-institution calendar, check opening hours before visiting a government office or arranging bank business. The holiday calendars do not establish shop or public-transport schedules, so check those services directly.[3][5]
When December 10 falls on a weekly rest day, Thailand’s published holiday guidance and labour rules provide for a substitute holiday on the next working day, with specific arrangements depending on the calendar or type of work.[3][4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Constitution Day in Thailand?
It is observed on December 10 each year, commemorating the granting of the first permanent constitution in 1932.[1]
Is Constitution Day a day off?
Are banks closed?
The Bank of Thailand lists Constitution Day as a holiday for financial institutions and specialised financial institutions. Check with your bank for branch or service details.[5]
What happens if December 10 falls on a weekly rest day?
Are shops and public transport open?
Check opening hours with shops and attractions, and check schedules with transport operators before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for Constitution Day in Thailand:
- Guide to Parliament “Sappaya Saphasathan” for Student, School, University and Public- Secretariat of the House of Representatives, Thailand
- วันรัฐธรรมนูญ 2564- Parliament Museum, Thailand
- PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FOR 2025- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thailand
- Employee rights- e-Labour, Ministry of Labour, Thailand
- Financial Institutions Holiday- Bank of Thailand