Thailand Celebrates King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 74th Birthday with Ceremonies Across Phuket

Thailand marked the 74th birthday of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn on July 28 with ceremonies and public events held nationwide, including a series of commemorative activities across Phuket.

The day’s celebrations on the island began early in the morning at Phuket Provincial Hall and in front of the main government complex on Tha Kraeng Road. Provincial officials, local leaders, and members of the public gathered to present alms to Buddhist monks and take part in merit-making ceremonies dedicated to the monarch.

Additional events were held at Phuket Provincial Hall in the evening. Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom, accompanied by his wife, senior government officials, and representatives of local administrative organizations, paid tribute by placing floral offerings before a portrait of King Rama X before participating in the traditional candle-lighting ceremony.

The occasion also inspired several charitable initiatives across the province. Throughout the day, the Phuket Red Cross and Vachira Phuket Hospital invited residents to donate blood in honor of the King's birthday.

Donation drives were organized at the Phuket Regional Blood Centre (Phuket RBC) and the conference hall of Limelight Phuket shopping mall.

A number of additional community service activities were arranged to commemorate the royal birthday. In Phuket Old Town, visitors were treated to a special projection mapping show highlighting the island’s history alongside tributes to King Rama X.

The national holiday period continues for two more days as Thailand observes two major Buddhist festivals. Asalha Bucha is celebrated on July 29, followed by Khao Phansa, marking the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, on July 30.

To encourage additional blood donations during the extended holiday, Phuket RBC continues to welcome donors with commemorative gifts. Earlier this week, the blood center reported critically low reserves, with only 14 units of blood remaining in stock.

Both Asalha Bucha and Khao Phansa are designated alcohol-free holidays in Thailand. The nationwide ban on alcohol sales remains in force, except for businesses covered under the five exemptions introduced by the government last year.