12 August in Thailand

If you happen to be in Thailand on 12 August, expect to see decorations and celebrations everywhere, for this day is a public holiday in Thailand marking the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. To make the day even more special Thailand marks this day as Mother’s Day, a day for appreciation of the most important person in anyone’s life.

Ratchadamnoen Avenue in Banglampoo (the part of Bangkok where you can find the Grand Palace, Wat Prakaew and tourist venues like Khao San Road) looks dazzling with a spectacular display with coloured lights and masses of bunting – particularly impressive in the evening. The area is festooned with colorful lights, flowers and portraits for this special occasion. Individual people and organizations raise flags and portraits of Her Majesty in Bangkok and all over the kingdom.

Born M.R. Sirikit Kitiyakara in 1932, Her Majesty the Queen holds a high and respected place in the hearts of Thai people. She can be aptly credited for improving the welfare and well-being of her subjects. Her Majesty’s SUPPORT Foundation (Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques) has expanded progressively since its establishment in 1976 to include craft shops in the city and popular tourist areas, and two Thai Folk Arts and Crafts Training Centers at Chitralada Villa and at Bangsai in Ayutthaya.