Dates of The Queen's Birthday in Thailand
2026 | Aug 12 |
2025 | Aug 11 - Aug 12 |
2024 | Aug 12 |
Thailand Holiday Calendars
The Queen's Birthday honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, with ceremonies, merit-making, and public celebrations. Streets and buildings are decorated with blue, her royal color, as the nation simultaneously observes National Mother's Day.
The Queen's Birthday: A Public Holiday?
The Queen's Birthday is an official public holiday in Thailand, with government offices, schools, banks, and most businesses closed as the nation honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, with ceremonies and public displays of devotion. If the holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute holiday is usually declared on the following weekday, and occasionally a bridge public holiday is added to create a longer holiday period for public convenience.

The Queen's Birthday
The Queen's Birthday, celebrated on August 12, honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who was born in 1932. As the wife of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), Queen Sirikit played a significant role in supporting the King and working for the welfare of the Thai people. Throughout her life, she has been admired for her dedication to public service, especially her efforts in promoting arts, crafts, healthcare, and education for rural communities.
In 1976, August 12 was officially declared a national public holiday to honor Queen Sirikit's birthday. The day also became Thailand's National Mother's Day, recognizing her as the Mother of the Nation. This dual celebration reflects the Thai people's deep respect and love for the Queen Mother, acknowledging her lifelong contributions to the nation and her role in strengthening family values across the country.
Observance of The Queen's Birthday in Thailand
The Queen's Birthday is marked by nationwide ceremonies, religious activities, and acts of devotion. Many people start the day by making merit at temples, offering food to monks, and praying for Her Majesty's health and happiness. Government offices, schools, and community organizations hold special events where citizens pay tribute to the Queen Mother. Official ceremonies, often led by members of the royal family, are broadcast across the country for everyone to witness.
Streets, government buildings, and homes are decorated with blue, Queen Sirikit's royal color. Portraits of the Queen Mother are displayed prominently alongside the national flag. People wear blue clothing to express their respect and loyalty. Public parks, cultural centers, and community venues organize exhibitions, cultural performances, and charitable events reflecting the Queen's lifelong dedication to social welfare, arts, and culture.
The Queen's Birthday holds deep significance for the Thai people, not only as a celebration of Her Majesty's contributions but also as National Mother's Day. The day emphasizes the importance of family, love, and gratitude. It serves as a reminder of the Queen Mother's compassion and her tireless efforts to improve the well-being of Thai society. The ongoing observance of this day reflects the strong bond between the monarchy and the people, celebrating both national unity and the enduring role of family values in Thai culture.
The Queen's Birthday Observances
Year | Date | Weekday | Name | Holiday Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Aug 12 | Mon | The Queen's Birthday | National Holiday |
2025 | Aug 11 | Mon | Bridge Public Holiday | National Holiday |
Aug 12 | Tue | The Queen's Birthday | National Holiday | |
2026 | Aug 12 | Wed | The Queen's Birthday | National Holiday |
2027 | Aug 12 | Thu | The Queen's Birthday | National Holiday |
2028 | Aug 11 | Fri | Day off for the Queen's Birthday | National Holiday |
Aug 12 | Sat | The Queen's Birthday | National Holiday |