King Bhumibol’s Birthday celebrations take place on December 6 in Thailand each year (unless the holiday falls on the weekend, then the celebrations move to the following Monday). The occasion is also known as Thailand’s National Day and Father’s Day. In an effort to commemorate the birthday of the late King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand becomes a party haven where almost everyone is out on the streets to pay tribute to the great king. There is music, dances, and lots of lights! And yes, decorations are everywhere too. If you want to witness Thailand at its best, make sure you visit the region in December. We guarantee it to be an adventure you will remember for the rest of your life.
History of King Bhumibol’s Birthday
King Bhumibol, also known as Rama IX, ruled Thailand from June 9, 1946, until his death on October 13, 2016. King Bhumibol reigned the country for a long time and managed to gain the love of the people with his positive stance towards democracy. The King was also the only monarch born overseas in the U.S., while his father, Prince Mahidol Adulyadej, was studying at Harvard. All over Thailand, King Bhumibol was respected and cherished for his involvement in stopping a civil war that nearly erupted in 1992. The King also waged war against drugs by ensuring illegal narcotics did not make their way to the people. Most importantly, he was seen as the Father of Technology of Thailand and the ‘development’ King.Apart from these steps towards the nation’s advancement, the King also adopted some interesting hobbies. Believe it or not, he was a Jazz musician and wrote about 49 compositions. In fact, he even started a jazz band in the 1950s and performed on the radio station, which he started from within the palace.Late in 2016, the King’s health started to get affected, and he was admitted to the hospital due to his deteriorating condition. On October 13, 2016, he passed away. Thousands of his followers mourned his death and still continue to celebrate his life every year on December 5. During the King’s birth anniversary, buildings across Thailand display flags, buntings, and portraits of the late King. The streets are decorated with thousands of marigold flowers that represent celebrations.
King Bhumibol’s Birthday timeline
The King wins a gold medal in the Southeast Asia Peninsular Games.
King Bhumibol convinces the dictators of the country to give up power.
The King is listed as the world’s richest monarch.
King Bhumibol is hospitalized.
King Bhumibol’s Birthday FAQs
Where was King Bhumibol born?
He was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in the United States.
How is the King’s birthday celebrated in Thailand?
Homes and public spaces are decorated with lights, and several other ceremonies take place.
Is the Thai king dead?
Yes, King Bhumibol died in 2016. He was born in 1927.
How to Celebrate King Bhumibol’s Birthday
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Visit one of the celebrations
Since the birthday is celebrated across Thailand, all you have to do is attend one of the massive celebrations and have the time of your life.
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Bake a cake
What better way to celebrate a birthday? Bake a cake and have a cake cutting ceremony in honor of the king.
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Find out more about him
There is so much more about the King that none of us know. Why not use this day to dig up some interesting facts about him?
5 Facts About King Bhumibol
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Symbolic importance
He is seen as the father of Thailand.
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The King’s birthday celebrations
While he was alive, great celebrations took place in Hua Hin.
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Total reign
King Bhumibol was Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch — he was in power for 70 years.
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U.N.’s first Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award
The award was presented to King Bhumibol in Bangkok.
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Honoring their King
When the King was hospitalized, thousands of people stood outside wearing pink and yellow.
Why We Love King Bhumibol’s Birthday
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It’s historical
The day celebrates the birthday of a royal figure in Thailand and keeps his legacy alive for the next generations.
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Cultural aspect
King Bhumibol’s birthday is important because it displays the unique Thai culture and cherishes the nation’s roots.
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Time for celebration
The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and no matter what class or status you are, it is your right to enjoy the King’s birthday.
King Bhumibol’s Birthday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | December 5 | Monday |
| 2023 | December 5 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | December 5 | Thursday |
| 2025 | December 5 | Friday |
| 2026 | December 7 | Monday |
