About Thailand National Day
Thailand National Day is observed every December 5, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history, who reigned from 1946 until his passing in 2016. Though he is no longer on the throne, the date remains the kingdom's national day in his honour, a mark of the deep reverence Thais hold for the monarchy and for a king widely admired for his rural development and royal projects.
December 5 is also National Father's Day in Thailand, chosen to coincide with the late king's birthday in his role as the symbolic father of the nation. Across the country the day is marked with merit-making at temples, candle-lighting ceremonies, the display of national and royal flags, and families honouring their own fathers and grandfathers. Public buildings and streets are decorated, often in yellow, the colour associated with the late king.
Thailand National Day falls on December 5 every year, a fixed date, so the countdown above always points to the next observance. Whether you are in Thailand for the ceremonies or marking it from abroad, add Thailand National Day to your own countdown page and watch the days count down to December 5.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Saturday, December 5, 2026next |
| 2027 | Sunday, December 5, 2027 |
| 2028 | Tuesday, December 5, 2028 |
| 2029 | Wednesday, December 5, 2029 |
| 2030 | Thursday, December 5, 2030 |
FAQ
When is Thailand National Day?
Thailand National Day is on December 5 every year. The countdown above shows the days, hours and minutes until the next December 5 in your timezone.
Why is Thailand National Day on December 5?
December 5 is the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), Thailand's longest-reigning monarch; the date remains the national day in his honour.
Is December 5 also Father's Day in Thailand?
Yes. December 5 is observed as National Father's Day in Thailand, tied to the late king's birthday and his role as the symbolic father of the nation.
How is Thailand National Day celebrated?
With merit-making at temples, candle-lighting ceremonies, flag displays and family gatherings honouring fathers, with public spaces often decorated in yellow.