Mother's Day in Thailand – August 12, 2026

Mother's Day in Thailand
Categories:
Tags:
AppreciationParentsWomen
Where:
Thailand
Date change rule:
Every August 12
Holiday emoji:
🇹🇭

Mother’s Day in Thailand is observed annually on August 12, a day that beautifully intertwines the appreciation of mothers with the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Families present jasmine flowers, symbolizing purity and gentleness, and gather for meals. Join in the heartfelt celebrations by sharing your love, giving traditional gifts, and spending quality time together.

Want to sponsor Mother's Day in Thailand? Learn how

Expected Mother's Day in Thailand Deals

Mother’s Day in Thailand is a time for heartfelt appreciation, with many businesses offering special promotions to help families celebrate. Expect upscale restaurants and hotels like Mandarin Oriental Bangkok or The Peninsula Bangkok to feature exclusive brunch and dinner menus. Retailers such as Central Group and Siam Paragon often roll out gift sets, discounts on jewelry, and beauty products perfect for moms. Flower shops across the country, including major chains and local vendors, will highlight ‘dok mali’ (jasmine) bouquets and garlands. Additionally, spas and wellness centers, like those at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, will likely offer pampering packages. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as August 12 approaches.

Platform Guide for Mother's Day in Thailand

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #MothersDayThailand. Share photos of jasmine flowers, family celebrations, or tributes to Queen Sirikit.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #MothersDayThailand. Post about your family’s traditions or share messages of appreciation for mothers.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #MothersDayThailand. Share news, historical facts about the holiday, or your own short tributes.

Social Media Tips for Mother's Day in Thailand

Individuals

Present your mother with a garland of jasmine flowers, symbolizing purity and respect. Spend the day with her, perhaps enjoying a special meal or visiting a temple together.

Creators

Create content showcasing the beauty of Thai Mother's Day traditions, from crafting jasmine garlands to preparing traditional dishes. Highlight the cultural significance and family bonds.

Brands

Offer special promotions on gifts, dining experiences, or family activities. Consider partnering with local charities to support mothers in need, aligning with the holiday's spirit of generosity.

Partners & Brands for Mother's Day in Thailand

  1. Central Group

    Founded in 1947, Central Group is Thailand's largest retail conglomerate, operating department stores, supermarkets, and hotels. They are a prominent destination for Mother's Day gifts and celebrations.

  2. King Power

    Established in 1989, King Power is Thailand's leading duty-free retailer, known for its extensive range of luxury goods. They often feature special collections and promotions for national holidays.

  3. Siam Paragon

    Opened in 2005, Siam Paragon is one of Bangkok's most luxurious shopping malls, housing international brands, a cinema, and an aquarium. It's a popular spot for families seeking upscale Mother's Day experiences.

  4. Thai Airways

    The national flag carrier of Thailand, Thai Airways International was founded in 1960. As a symbol of the nation, they often participate in and promote national celebrations, including Mother's Day.

  5. Starbucks Thailand

    With a significant presence across Thailand, Starbucks offers a familiar and comfortable setting for family gatherings. They frequently introduce seasonal beverages and merchandise, suitable for gifting.

  6. Unilever Thailand

    A major consumer goods company, Unilever Thailand provides a wide range of household and personal care products. Their brands are often integral to daily life and can be part of thoughtful Mother's Day gifts.

  7. Flower Shops

    Local flower shops across Thailand are essential for Mother's Day, specializing in 'dok mali' (jasmine) garlands and bouquets. They uphold the cherished tradition of gifting these fragrant blooms.

Mother's Day in Thailand Hero

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, was born on August 12, 1932. Her birthday was officially designated as Mother's Day in Thailand in 1976 to honor her immense contributions to the nation, particularly her work in promoting welfare, education, and public health. She is revered for her dedication to the Thai people and her role as a loving mother.

History of Mother's Day in Thailand

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in Thailand on April 15, 1950. In 1976, the date was changed to August 12 to commemorate the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. She is perceived as the Mother of all Thai people. During August, public places are adorned with beautiful decorations and lights to celebrate the birthday of the queen — there are even portraits that are hung up of her. Preparations for the day start a few weeks before the queen’s birthday. Citizens hoist the national flag and decorate their houses with the portrait of the Queen as a way of expressing their loyalty and love for her.

Local businesses also join in on the celebration by decorating their establishments with her portraits, garlands, and colorful lights. The celebrations of the day start early in the morning with alms-giving, nationwide candle-lighting ceremonies, and displays of fireworks. The queen’s birthday is celebrated all across the country and especially in Bangkok. In the capital, the holiday is celebrated with the most fervor along Ratchadamnern Road and the Grand Palace area.

Queen Sirikit is hailed as the mother to all Thai people and therefore this day is rightfully observed as a national holiday. Apart from celebrating the queen’s contribution to Thailand, giving alms to monks is also an important part of the day’s celebration. Ceremonies are held first thing in the morning, where alms are distributed to monks, as well as the poor and needy. Schools also organize Mother’s Day celebrations with a special ceremony. Mothers of students attend the ceremony and children kneel at their mother’s feet to convey respect and love. Young children also make greeting cards for their mothers.

Mother's Day in Thailand timeline

1932
Queen Sirikit is Born

The birth of the queen takes place in Bangkok.

1950
Marriage

Queen Sirikit marries Bhumibol Adulyadej just before his coronation.

1956
The Queen Regent

The king enters Buddhist monkhood and Sirikit becomes the Queen Regent.

2012
An Unfortunate Ailment

The queen suffers a stroke and refrains from appearing publicly.

Mother's Day in Thailand FAQs

When is Mother's Day in Thailand?

Mother’s Day in Thailand in 2026 falls on Wednesday, August 12. This fixed date annually honors mothers and coincides with the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

Why is Mother's Day in Thailand celebrated on August 12?

Mother’s Day in Thailand is celebrated on August 12 because it is the official birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. The date was established in 1976 to honor her profound contributions to the country and her role as a maternal figure for the Thai people.

What are the main traditions for Mother's Day in Thailand?

A central tradition for Mother’s Day in Thailand is the gifting of ‘dok mali’ (jasmine flowers), which symbolize purity, gentleness, and maternal love. Children often present their mothers with jasmine garlands or bouquets.

Is Mother's Day in Thailand a public holiday?

Yes, Mother’s Day in Thailand on August 12, 2026, is a national public holiday. This means government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed, allowing families to celebrate together.

Mother's Day in Thailand Activities

  1. Celebrate with your mother

    You can celebrate the day even if you are not in Thailand. Take your mother out for a meal and spend some quality time with her. You can also buy her chocolates, flowers, or anything she desires. Whatever you choose to do, make her feel special!

  2. Plant jasmine flowers

    Since jasmines are such an important part of the Mother’s Day celebration, plant jasmine flowers in your garden. It’s a beautiful flower with a lovely smell.

  3. Donate

    Alm-giving is very important to Mother’s Day in Thailand. On this day donate to a cause that you care about. Gather up your unused clothes and donate them to a mother in need.

5 Facts About Thailand That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. It was never colonized

    Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country to have never been colonized.

  2. Bangkok’s real name is very long

    Bangkok’s ceremonial name is “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit”.

  3. Thailand is a land of temples

    There are over 40,000 temples across the country.

  4. It’s home to unique animals

    White elephants are one of many unique animals the country houses.

  5. Islands

    There are 1,430 islands in Thailand.

Why We Love Mother's Day in Thailand

  1. A day to convey love to our mothers

    We all love our mothers but it’s nice to take a day out of the year to celebrate the gentleness and love that mothers symbolize. This mother’s day allows us to show how much we appreciate all that our mothers do for us. Let’s give them the day off to relax and enjoy being spoiled.

  2. A day to do good

    Since donating and alms-giving are popular ways to celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to do something and give back to society. Donations will make you feel a whole new level of joy and you will also be bringing happiness to the receiver of your donation,

  3. Get closer to Thai culture

    Thailand Mother’s Day is a wonderful way to learn more about Queen Sirikit and her impact on Thai life and culture. This holiday helps us broaden our knowledge and learn respect and gratitude for all great things from our mothers and Queen Sirikit.

Mother's Day in Thailand dates

Year Date Day
2026 August 12 Wednesday
2027 August 12 Thursday
2028 August 12 Saturday
2029 August 12 Sunday
2030 August 12 Monday