H.M. King's Birthday

Categories:: Federal
Tags:: Birthdays Cultural
Where:: Thailand
Date change rule:: Every July 28
Holiday emoji:: 👑

H.M. King’s Birthday is observed every July 28 in Thailand, commemorating the birth of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. It’s a day of national reverence, marked by public celebrations and expressions of loyalty. Discover how the Thai people honor their monarch and explore the traditions that make this day special.

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Expected H.M. King's Birthday Deals

As a day of national recognition and reverence in Thailand, H.M. King’s Birthday typically sees a focus on civic events and expressions of loyalty rather than commercial deals. Government buildings and homes are adorned with decorations, and public ceremonies are held. Some businesses may offer special promotions or discounts as a gesture of national pride, often tied to traditional Thai products or services. Look for special offerings from local Thai businesses and cultural institutions. We will update this page with confirmed live events as July 28 approaches.

Platform Guide for H.M. King's Birthday

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #KingsBirthdayThailand. Share photos of national decorations or participate in online discussions about Thai culture.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #ThaiRoyalFamily. Share news and updates about the day’s observances or historical facts about the monarchy.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #HMKingsBirthday. Post vibrant images of celebrations, traditional attire, or architectural tributes across Thailand.

H.M. King's Birthday Hero

H.M. King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua

Born on July 28, 1952, King Vajiralongkorn is the tenth monarch of Thailand, reigning as Rama X of the Chakri dynasty. He succeeded his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in 2016. The King's Birthday is a significant national holiday, marked by public displays of respect and loyalty throughout Thailand.

History of H.M. King's Birthday

Vajiralongkorn was born on July 28, 1952, in the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall of the Dusit Palace in Bangkok. He is the only son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. When he was 20, he was made crown prince by his father. On October 13, 2016, his father died, so he was expected to ascend to the throne of Thailand. However, he asked for time to mourn before taking the throne.

It was on the night of December 1, 2016, that he accepted the throne. His coronation took place from May 4 to May 6, 2019. Even though his coronation took place several months before, the Thai government retroactively declared his reign to have begun on October 13, 2016, upon his father’s death. He is also known as RAMA X the tenth monarch of the Chakri dynasty. Being 64 when he accepted the throne, Vajiralongkorn became the oldest Thai monarch to ascend to the throne.

This holiday was previously celebrated on the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on December 5. Since 2017, the King’s Birthday has shifted to July 28, but December 5 remains a public holiday in Thailand to mark the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. On H.M. King’s Birthday, most banks, government offices, and businesses will be closed. Many shops will remain open and there is no ban on the sale of alcohol.

H.M. King's Birthday timeline

1952

Vajiralongkorn Is Born

He is born on July 28, 1952, in the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall of the Dusit Palace in Bangkok.

2016

Vajiralongkorn´s Father Dies

His father dies on October 13, 2016, and he is expected to ascend to the throne of Thailand.

2019

Vajiralongkorn´s Coronation Takes Place

His coronation takes place from May 4 to May 6, 2019.

2017

The Date Of The Holiday Changes

The King's Birthday date shifts to July 28.

How Businesses Can Celebrate H.M. King's Birthday

Local businesses in Thailand can honor H.M. King’s Birthday by displaying royal portraits and national flags, adorning their premises with yellow decorations, and participating in local community events. Restaurants might offer special traditional Thai dishes, while retailers could feature products that celebrate Thai culture or offer small gestures of appreciation to customers, fostering a sense of national unity and respect for the monarchy.

H.M. King's Birthday FAQs

When is H.M. King's Birthday?

H.M. King’s Birthday 2026 falls on Tuesday, July 28. It’s a day of national observance and public celebration across Thailand.

What is the significance of H.M. King's Birthday in Thailand?

The day signifies national unity and reverence for the monarchy, which plays a central role in Thai culture and identity. It’s a time for the Thai people to express their loyalty and respect for King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

How do people celebrate H.M. King's Birthday in Thailand?

Celebrations typically involve public ceremonies, displaying royal portraits, decorating homes and public buildings with flags and yellow banners, and offering alms to monks. Many people wear yellow, the King’s color.

Is H.M. King's Birthday a public holiday in Thailand?

Yes, H.M. King’s Birthday on July 28, 2026, is a public holiday in Thailand. Government offices, banks, and many private businesses will be closed, allowing people to participate in national celebrations.

H.M. King's Birthday Activities

Attend ceremonies
Many ceremonies are held on this day to celebrate the birthday of the King. People attend festivities to celebrate Vajiralongkorn's birthday with their monarch.
Wear yellow
Officials attending ceremonies are advised to wear cream-colored attire with a black ribbon. People are also called to wear yellow on this day to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty The King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.
Learn about Thai culture
This day is an opportunity to learn about Thailand's culture. Search information on the internet and learn about their culture and traditions.

5 Interesting Facts About H.M. King

The wealthiest monarch in the world
He is said to have a net worth estimated between U.S.$30 billion and U.S.$70 billion.
He has been married
Vajiralongkorn has been married and divorced three times.
He has daughters and sons
He has three daughters and five sons, and the four eldest sons were born before he married their mother.
He married a former acting commander
Three days before his coronation, Vajiralongkorn married Suthida Tidjai, former acting commander of the Royal Thai Aide-de-Camp Department.
He enrolled at the Royal Military College
He went to Australia to study, and his education at Duntroon was divided into two parts, military training, and a bachelor's degree course.

Why We Love H.M. King's Birthday

The King is important to Thailand
The monarchy is so important to the people of Thailand. Although the absolute monarchy ended in 1932, the institution today continues to command deep, universal respect and serves as a unifying element for the country.
Love for the King is in Thai roots
The people of Thailand love and revere their King. The monarchy in Thailand has been a pillar of stability. The Thai sense of identity is closely linked to the monarchy since this institution dates back more than 700 years.
The King´s Birthday is an opportunity to celebrate
H.M. King´s Birthday is the most spectacular celebration in Thailand. It is celebrated by everyone, and families gather and enjoy this special day.