Chakri Memorial Day

Thailand observes Chakri Memorial Day as a public holiday on April 6th every year. Officially known as “King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great Day and Chakri Dynasty Memorial Day,” this holiday commemorates the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty by King Rama I in 1782, over two centuries ago. One of King Rama’s first decrees was to make Krung Thep (“City of Angels,” also known as Bangkok) the capital of Siam.

Chakri Memorial Day not only commemorates the coronation and contributions of King Rama I but all the kings of the Chakri Dynasty, culminating in His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), the current reigning monarch.

On this national public holiday, government offices, banks, and schools are closed, though other businesses may remain open and are unaffected by the celebrations. Chakri Memorial Day is always held on April 6th, just a week before the annual Songkran Festival (Traditional Thai New Year).