May 4, 2024: Coronation Day (Wan Chat Mongkol)

Coronation Day is a day to commemorate the anniversary of the complete coronation of the King of Thailand, conducted according to ancient royal traditions.

King Mongkut (Rama IV) had the royal idea that the day he ascended the throne and was coronated as the monarch was an auspicious occasion. He observed that in other countries with monarchies, this day is considered a significant and auspicious holiday. However, in Siam (Thailand), there had been no such celebration. The coronation day of King Mongkut coincided with the traditional celebration period for the royal regalia, so he initiated the celebration of the Great White Umbrella of State (Phra Maha Swetachat) to bring prosperity to the kingdom. He named this celebration "Chat Mongkol."

During the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the Coronation Day was observed annually on May 5th, as his coronation took place on May 5, 1950. This day was recognized as an official public holiday in Thailand.

In the reign of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), he graciously decreed that the coronation ceremonies be held from May 4 to May 6, 2019. The official coronation ceremony was conducted on May 4, 2019. Subsequently, May 4th was designated as Coronation Day and recognized as a public holiday in Thailand.

From then on, the Thai people have observed May 4th each year as Coronation Day to honor and remember this significant event.

 Source: Ministry of Culture