Where to celebrate HM the King’s birthday in Bangkok

All over Thailand, celebrations are being held in honor of His Majesty the King’s 82nd birthday, which is on December 5. Here are some of the events happening in Bangkok this weekend and beyond, running from Sanam Luang all the way down Ratchadamnoen Road to the Royal Palace.

4D light show

Everyone in Bangkok is talking about this stunning visual, light and sound presentation that will beam four-dimensional images onto the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, accompanied by a live orchestra. The 4D event is on from December 5-13 at 7pm and titled "Por (Father)...The Greatest of the Kings, the Greetings of the Land."

Fairs and parades

So much is happening in the Old City over the next few days worth checking out, including “Ha Thanwa Maharaj” -- or 5 December the Great Fair. It’s on till December 7 and includes mall stages featuring different entertainment acts, exhibitions and souviners for sale along Ratchadamnoen Nok.

Moving down to Ratchadamnoen Road, every night until December 7 an incredible illuminated parade runs down the road at 7pm while dancing fountain displays accompany royally-composed music at nine spots and on the pedestrian islands.

Meanwhile, an exhibition in honor of His Majesty is being held at nearby Jetsadabodin Pavilion. It has display boards featuring royal activities, multimedia presentations, and light and sound presentations.

Candle light ceremony and fireworks

At 7pm on December 5, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva will preside over a candle-lighting ceremony at Sanam Luang to offer good wishes to HM the King. This will be broadcast live on television and radio nationwide.

Pyrotechnics

A week after HM the King’s birthday, the Thai Ministry of Defence is putting on a huge fireworks display at Muang Thong Thani on December 13. Called "Thailand's Festival of International Fireworks in Honour of their Majesties," it will feature pyrotechnics from China, Japan, Germany and Thailand, bringing together spectacular designs and special techniques from over 100 pyrotechnic experts.

The Bangkok Post has a great map in Friday’s edition highlighting some of the event locations and road closures while The Nation has a good article looking at some of the unique hi-tech ways the country is celebrating the King of Thailand’s birthday, including more on the 4D show. For more on the celebration schedule, check out the Tourism Authority of Thailand news site.