King’s Birthday in Thailand
Thailand observes the King’s Birthday every 28 July, the birth date of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, also known as Rama X. The day became an annual public holiday in 2017 and is marked by royal tribute and official ceremonies.[1][2]
A royal birthday and public holiday
King Maha Vajiralongkorn was born on 28 July 1952 in Bangkok. He became King Rama X after succeeding his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.[2]
On 11 April 2017, Thailand’s Cabinet approved 28 July as an annual public holiday, alongside 13 October. The government announcement described the dates as additional national occasions, with 28 July designated as the King’s birthday.[1]
Ceremonies and public observance
Official observances can include Buddhist prayer and merit-making, offerings of flowers, candle-lighting, and public expressions of good wishes. In Bangkok, Sanam Luang has hosted ceremonies attended by government leaders, officials, and members of the public.[3]
The government has invited the public to attend official birthday activities and, for a major celebration, encouraged people to wear yellow because it is associated with Monday, the day of the King’s birth. The programme can vary, so visitors should check official announcements for details before making plans.[3]
Work, closures, and substitute days
The date is an annual government holiday. Routine government services may be closed, although departments with essential duties or prearranged public services can make other arrangements.[1]
The Bank of Thailand includes the King’s Birthday in its schedule of holidays for financial institutions and specialised financial institutions. Customers should check with their bank about branch hours and services around the holiday.[5]
For private-sector employees, the Labour Protection Act requires employers to announce at least 13 traditional holidays each year, including National Labour Day. Employers select the other holidays from annual official holidays, religious holidays, or local traditions. If an employer has selected 28 July and it falls on an employee’s weekly rest day, the Act provides a substitute day off on the following working day; certain work may instead be covered by an agreed substitute day or holiday pay.[4]
Planning a visit
The public holiday does not mean every business or service closes. Check opening hours with shops, restaurants, or transport services before you go. Check directly with any office, bank, venue, or service you need on the day.[1][5]
Frequently asked questions
When is Thailand’s King’s Birthday?
Is it a public holiday?
Yes. The Cabinet approved 28 July as an annual government public holiday in 2017.[1]
Do all private-sector employees get the day off?
Employers must announce at least 13 traditional holidays per year and select them from official, religious, or local holidays. Whether an employee has 28 July off depends on the employer’s announced holiday schedule.[4]
Are banks closed?
The Bank of Thailand lists the King’s Birthday among financial-institution holidays. Check with your bank for branch-specific arrangements.[5]
Is there a substitute day if 28 July falls on an employee’s weekly rest day?
Under Section 29 of the Labour Protection Act, an employee whose announced traditional holiday falls on their weekly rest day receives a day off on the following working day. Some work may instead be covered by an agreed substitute day or holiday pay.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for King's Birthday in Thailand:
- 28 ก.ค.และ 13 ต.ค.เป็นวันหยุดราชการ- Ministry of Education, Thailand
- Biography of King Rama X- Government Public Relations Department, Thailand
- Activities to Celebrate His Majesty the King’s Birthday on 28 July 2024- Government Public Relations Department, Thailand
- The Labour Protection Act B.E. 2541- International Labour Organization, NATLEX
- Financial Institutions Holiday- Bank of Thailand