Bangkok celebrates His Majesty the King's birthday

Though celebrations in honor of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 84th birthday on December 5 have been scaled down due to the recent flood crisis, there's still plenty going on in Bangkok this week. 

Fireworks will take place at multiple locations over the city Monday evening but the main venue to catch the action is Bangkok's Sanam Luang -- an open public space within walking distance of Khao San Road. Traditional dancing and other cultural shows will be staged there all week too. 

Festivities begin with a moving candle-light ceremony at Sanam Luang at 7 p.m on Monday night. It's an incredible photo opportunity, but the entire area will be packed with people so getting a taxi afterwards will definitely be a challenge. Expect major traffic delays. 

The most notable part of this year's celebrations is the opening of the Grand Palace to visitors at night, from 6 p.m. to midnight, from December 5-9.  Entrance is free. It's the first time Thai officials have decided to let the public into the palace at night.

This will give people a rare chance to take photos from and of the grounds of the Bangkok icon when it's lit up.  

Outside the Grand Palace gates, a 3D panoramic multimedia presentation called the "Illusion Live Wall" will be shown on a 200 meter stretch of the wall on Na Phra Lan Road from 7-10 p.m. 

Because the Thai king is recognized as the “Father of the Thai Nation,” December 5 is also Father's Day. Restaurants all over the city will be packed full with families Monday night so reservations are recommended. 

In a show of respect to the king, most bars throughout the city will be closed on December 5, as well as all banks and government offices.