Long Live His Majesty The King, Bhumibol Adulyadej

Long Live His Majesty The King, Bhumibol Adulyadej's Birthday

Today is the largest celebration for the birthday ceremony in Thailand. Today, Dec 5, is the most important day of Thai people for His Majesty The King's 80th Birthday. People around the country celebrate the birthday ceremony by praying and offering food to everybody who pass by. They are preparing to go out for multiple purposes in this evening.

"In bringing prosperity and progress to the country, one should build up gradually, in stages. Implement the program carefully, review the operation and improve it all the while, not in a haste, or for the sake of novelty. In fact, nothing new really exists. All novelties evolve from old things, and will in time become old."

On the big day, plant yourself at Sanam Luang. There will be plenty of street food for the crowds. During the day, the stage will be used for a free concert of Thai pop songs and jazz pieces written by the king. Around 5 p.m., make your way over to the Grand Palace to greet the king before returning to the park for candles, singing and his birthday speech.

This year, the ceremony will be televised in 176 countries, and fireworks displays will be spread out over four days: Dec. 4 at 9 p.m. from the Royal Turf Club (183 Pitsanuloke Road; 66-2-280-0020); Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. over the Chao Phraya, between Utsahakam Ring Road and the Rama IX Bridge; Dec. 6 at 9 p.m. back at the Royal Turf Club; and Dec. 8 at 7.30 p.m. at Benchakiti Park (60 New Rachadapisek Road.) A schedule of events can be found at www.80thbirthdayanniversary.go.th.

Thousands of people wearing yellow T-shirts gathered outside the palace in Bangkok to hear the King speak.

A Royal Barge procession in Bangkok marked King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60th anniversary last year. The barges will sail again to honor his turning 80.

Any visitors to Bangkok in November through early December, are all welcome to Thailand's biggest birthday celebration of the year (and a national holiday), in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or Rama IX, who celebrates his 80th on Dec. 5.