King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day in Thailand
Thailand observes King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great Memorial Day on October 13, the anniversary of the late king’s death in 2016. It is a public holiday, and the Bank of Thailand includes it among the holidays for financial institutions. The day is set aside for remembrance, with official commemorations including merit-making ceremonies.[1][3][4]
A day of national remembrance
The observance remembers King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as Rama IX, who died on October 13, 2016. The date connects the holiday directly to Thailand’s modern royal history. In its report on government activity, the Thai government records both the date of his passing and a merit-making ceremony held in his memory on October 13.[3][4]
The Bank of Thailand lists October 13 as King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great Memorial Day in its financial-institution holiday schedule. The holiday’s name and purpose distinguish it from December 5, which is separately listed as the late king’s birthday, National Day and Father’s Day.[1]
Commemorations and observances
Official observances include Buddhist merit-making ceremonies. A Thai government report records that a ceremony for the late king took place on October 13, while a separate government report describes royal merit-making and remembrance activities at designated venues.[3][4] Check local announcements for public ceremonies.
Wreath-laying is also part of official memorial events. For example, members of the Cabinet laid wreaths before the king’s royal statue in Bangkok for the memorial day. Practices and event arrangements can differ by place and year, so visitors should consult local announcements for public ceremonies.[1]
Holiday status and practical planning
The Bank of Thailand’s schedule treats the date as a holiday for financial institutions and specialized financial institutions. Its 2024 notice listed a substitute holiday on October 14 because October 13 fell on a Sunday that year. That example shows why people should check the relevant year’s official schedule rather than assume the same substitute-day arrangement applies everywhere.[1][2]
Check opening hours with shops and attractions, and check schedules with transport operators before making plans. Check with private businesses and schools about their arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
When is King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day?
Is it a public holiday?
Yes. Thailand’s calendar classifies it as a public holiday, and the Bank of Thailand lists it as a holiday for financial institutions and specialized financial institutions.[1]
Are banks closed?
The Bank of Thailand includes the day in its financial-institution holiday schedule. Check with your bank for branch and service details.[1]
Are shops and public transport open?
Check opening hours with shops and schedules with transport operators before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day in Thailand:
- Financial Institutions Holiday- Bank of Thailand
- Notification of the Bank of Thailand No. FPG. 8/2566: Financial institutions and specialized financial institutions’ holidays for B.E. 2567 (2024)- Bank of Thailand
- Second-Year Performance Report of the Government of General Prayut Chan-o-cha- Royal Thai Government
- Third-Year Performance Report of the Government of General Prayut Chan-o-cha- Royal Thai Government