Bangkok is marking an important national occasion today as people across Thailand celebrate the 74th birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua.
Government offices, temples, private organizations, and local communities are holding religious ceremonies, public-service activities, and commemorative programs in honor of His Majesty’s birthday on Tuesday, July 28.
At the center of Bangkok’s celebrations is the “River of Life: Preserving Rattanakosin Heritage under Royal Benevolence” event at Mahakan Fort Park on Maha Chai Road.
The wider festival runs until July 31, with different activities scheduled throughout the week. Visitors can experience musical performances, traditional cultural shows, street art, religious activities, and programs celebrating the history and communities of Bangkok’s Rattanakosin district.
A City Comes Together
The wider program includes 12 major activities being held in dedication to His Majesty.
These include Buddhist chanting, an alms-giving ceremony involving 225 monks, blood donation, tree planting, assistance for homeless and disadvantaged people, commemorative film screenings, musical performances, and a candlelit tribute ceremony.
Walking-street activities were also organized from July 24 to 26 along several historic Bangkok waterways, including Ong Ang Canal, Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, Khlong Lot Wat Ratchanatdaram, and Khlong Lot Wat Ratchabophit.
The celebrations highlight His Majesty’s support for restoring Bangkok’s historic canals, including waterways surrounding Rattanakosin Island, Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, and Khlong Prem Prachakhon.
These restoration projects have helped transform previously degraded waterways into cleaner public spaces, pedestrian routes, and environmentally friendly transportation corridors.
His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua
Royal Heritage and Public Service
His Majesty was born in Bangkok on July 28, 1952, and currently reigns as King Rama X of the Royal House of Chakri.
During his Royal Coronation, His Majesty delivered his First Royal Command:
“We shall treasure, preserve, and build on our heritage and shall reign in righteousness for the great enduring good of the people.”
That commitment is reflected throughout this year’s commemorations, which combine traditional ceremonies with activities supporting communities, cultural preservation, public spaces, and quality of life.
Official ceremonies held at Sanam Luang today include Buddhist chanting and merit-making, as well as an oath-taking ceremony for civil servants to serve as good public officials and contribute to the strength of the nation.
Visiting the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is closed to visitors on July 28 and 29 because of Royal ceremonies.
However, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Royal Pantheon remain open from 8 AM until noon, with free admission through Sawatdi Sopha Gate. The temple’s main assembly hall remains closed to visitors.
Members of the public may also submit their names and birthday wishes through the Bureau of the Royal Household’s official online platform until July 30.
On this auspicious occasion, the ZOSMA News and Productions team respectfully extends its sincerest wishes to His Majesty the King.
May His Majesty enjoy continued good health, happiness, and a long and prosperous reign.
Long Live His Majesty the King.
