Coronation Day in Thailand
Thailand observes Coronation Day on May 4, the anniversary of the main day of King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s coronation in 2019. It is a public holiday, and the date is also included in the Bank of Thailand’s holiday calendar for financial institutions.[1][2]
A date tied to the 2019 coronation
King Maha Vajiralongkorn became King Rama X after succeeding his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The coronation ceremony took place from May 4 to 6, 2019, with its most important events on May 4. Thailand designated that date as Coronation Day and a public holiday.[1]
The day recalls the coronation of the reigning monarch and the institution of the Chakri dynasty. A Thai government account describes Coronation Day as a national occasion to remember the coronation rites of Chakri kings and to pay respect to the monarchy.[3]
How the day is observed
Official observances include ceremonies of merit-making and public tributes to the King. In a recent example reported by Thailand’s Government Public Relations Department, the King and Queen took part in a merit-making ceremony at the Grand Palace in connection with the coronation anniversary.[1]
Government agencies may also hold tribute ceremonies. The government reported that the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence held a ceremony where officials signed well-wishes for the King and expressed loyalty to the monarchy.[3] Check local announcements for ceremonies in your area.
Work, banks and practical plans
The holiday’s public status does not by itself mean every employee has the same day off. Under Section 29 of Thailand’s Labour Protection Act, employers must announce at least 13 traditional holidays each year, selected with reference to official, religious or local holidays. If an announced traditional holiday falls on an employee’s weekly day off, the employee is entitled to a substitute day on the next working day; some types of work may instead be covered by an agreed substitute day or holiday pay.[4]
The Bank of Thailand lists Coronation Day among the holidays for financial institutions and specialised financial institutions. As a result, bank branches should be expected to close, although the Bank’s calendar is the place to check the applicable year and any separately announced arrangements.[2] Check opening hours with the shop or service before you go, and check transport with the operator before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
When is Coronation Day in Thailand?
It is observed each year on May 4, the anniversary of the main day of King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s coronation in 2019.[1]
Is Coronation Day a public holiday?
Are banks open on Coronation Day?
The Bank of Thailand includes Coronation Day in its calendar of holidays for financial institutions and specialised financial institutions. Check the Bank’s calendar for the relevant year and any updates.[2]
Are shops and public transport open?
Check opening hours with the business before you go, and check transport times with the operator before travelling.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for Coronation Day in Thailand:
- Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty King Rama X- Government Public Relations Department, Thailand
- Financial Institutions Holiday- Bank of Thailand
- สำนักงานปลัดกระทรวงกลาโหม จัดพิธีลงนามถวายพระพรชัยมงคลเพื่อถวายความจงรักภักดี พระบาทสมเด็จพระเจ้าอยู่หัว เนื่องในโอกาสวันฉัตรมงคล (๔ พฤษภาคม ๒๕๖๘)- Royal Thai Government
- The Labour Protection Act B.E. 2541- Ministry of Labour, Thailand