Thailand Coronation Day

Thailand Coronation Day

May 5On May 5, 1950, King Bhumibol Adulyadej was crowned Rama IX of Thailand, the ninth king of the Chakri dynasty. Ever since, the day has been celebrated as Coronation Day in Thailand.
The celebration begins on May 3 with Buddhist monks holding a service at the Amarindra Vinichai Hall in the Grand Palace. A high monk delivers a sermon and scriptures are read in honor of the Chakri family ancestors. On May 4th, the Chief of Brahmin priests reads out the official proclamation of Coronation Day. In the evening, Buddhist priests perform a chanting ceremony. On May 5, the Buddhist monks are given a feast and the king wears his full regalia. At noon, the Royal Thai Army and Navy each give a 21-gun salute. Later in the day, the king awards medals and decorations to those citizens who have done outstanding services for the state.
CONTACTS:
Royal Thai Embassy
1024 Wisconsin Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20007
202-338-9700
www.thaiembdc.org