The meaning behind Thai Father Day

Tomorrow, 5 December, is Thai Father Day which is also a birthday of the current king of Thailand. Many might wonder why Father Day has to be on the same day as king’s birthday – it is because Thai people have strong bond, love and respect as if he were their father. So during this day of the year, Thai government, businesses and locals will hold the celebration for the king and the nation.

How do Thai celebrate?

To express your love and loyalty to the king, most of Thais will decorate their houses, companies and shops with royal yellow flag with his royal cypher and symbol.

Royal yellow flag

For locals, Thais usually wear yellow shirts, polo or tees during this month to express their love to the king. They also take this opportunity to take their fathers out for a nice meal or buy them presents.

Why it has to be yellow colour?

Thais have colour to represent each day in the week. The king was born on 5th December 1927 which fell on Monday and yellow is the colour that represents Monday.

Activities on Father Day

Beautiful light decoration on Ratchadamnoen Road

Light and decoration on RAtchadamnoen Road

You can just take a bus that pass Ratchadamnoen Road to see beautiful light and the decoration on the street throughout December. On 5th December, there will be candlelit ceremony for the king where Thais will wear yellow shirts and gather on certain spots across the country to pay respect to the king – it is quite a sight that you should not miss.

Visit national parks in the country

Breathtaking view from a national park.

To celebrate the king’s birthday, Thai government grants free admission to national parks across Thailand. So this is a good chance for travelling with your family during the long weekend. The wave of national entrance fee is limited to five people per family.

Free pass to Nongnuch Park

Nongnuch Park

Nongnuch Park in Chon Buri also grants free admission when you bring along your father on 5th December.

Rama 9 park flower festival

Flowers Festival

The festival of flowers and fair only held once a year and this year will last until 1 December. There will be beautiful flowers showcase, exhibitions, fun activities and fair of food and Thai products.

Bike for dad

Bike for Dad

Specially for this year, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn initiated a series of bike event – started with Bike for Mom and now Bike for Dad. The event aims to celebrate the king’s 88th birthday during 11 to 13 December 2015. For more info, visit here.