Father's Day in Thailand

All the hustle, bustle and anticipation this past week has been the focus of Father's Day. December 5, 2009 (tomorrow) will mark the 82nd birthday of the longest ruling monarchy in the world, HM King Bhumibol. See also: Monarchy of Thailand It is, in effect, also Father's Day. Across the nation, no matter background, age, gender, or beliefs, Thais will come out in unprecedented numbers to mark this important celebration together. See also: Thais Unite for His Majesty


Being my first experience with Father's Day in Thailand, I am very enthused for the local festivities. The government officers I work side by side with have held a record-breaking 6 meetings this week in efforts to prepare for the day's activities. We will start early at the one of the local schools for openning ceremonies at 7 AM. The day will then follow with an multitude of celebratory singing, dancing, orations, and an endless buffet of delicious food. One should be so lucky as to experience such a celebration!

Apart from watching the updates on Thai news every night, my closest encounter with Royalty here was when I first arrived back in April and I was invited to attend the commencement ceremony for a local hospital in which HRH Princess Sirindhorn came to induct a formally opening. This was quite the occasion for me and one of my most memorable experiences in Thailand to date. I was lucky to be there and catch a glipse of the Princess as she was received by local officials. Afterward, everyone gathered to take photos next Her Majesty's chair. Along with my Thai Supervisor, I managed to get in on this and get a photo next to her chair as well. Despite my aloofness as an outsider, I still realized this was a big deal.

Coming from a country where Royalty is unfamiliar yet whimsical and fascinating, I feel very fortunate to be here and share in this particular experience. There is something mystical and extraordinary about the whole thing.

At HRH Princess Sirindhorn's Chair