This weekend marks July’s second long holiday weekend in Thailand in celebration of HM the King’s birthday, and then two weeks later by the Queen Mother’s birthday. His Royal Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn celebrates his 70th birthday this Thursday July 28, with the government adding an additional holiday on the Friday to create a four-day holiday weekend.
HM’s birthday will be celebrated across Thailand with ceremonies, tributes and other activities. Authorities hope the extension of the holiday on Friday will prompt another wave of domestic tourism across the kingdom. The second long weekend of the month comes at the same time health authorities have shared their fears of the rising wave of BA.5 Covid infections out of Bangkok, which currently has over 50% of the latest cases in the July surge.
This week’s holidays won’t attract restrictions on parties or alcohol sales. Government offices, as well as many banks and other businesses will be closed, but other private businesses will continue to be open throughout. Immigration offices will be closed on both days.
Her Majesty the Queen Mother’s birthday on August 12 will also be a public holiday, and whilst there will be ceremonies and tributes on the day, there won’t be an alcohol bans and many private businesses may remain open. The Thai government is inviting people to take part in the Queen Mother’s 90th birthday celebration. Celebrations, ceremonies, and other activities to honour the Queen Mother have been planned around the country.
