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Unlike many other countries around the world that celebrate Mother’s Day in May, Thailand observes it on August 12th. Thai Mother’s Day has become a national holiday. It’s a meaningful occasion to honor and show gratitude for mothers’ love and sacrifices. Join Asia King Travel as we explore this special celebration together!
Thai Mother's Day is a major national holiday
Mother’s Day in Thailand (known as Wan Mae) was first celebrated on April 15, 1950. However, due to the great contributions of His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit over the decades, they have come to be regarded as the Father and Mother of all Thai people.
When King Rama IX entered a traditional Buddhist monkhood in 1956, Queen Sirikit was appointed as regent. She carried out her duties so exceptionally well that she was officially bestowed the title of Regent of Thailand, a role nearly equivalent to that of a reigning queen.
She established the SUPPORT Foundation in 1976 to help rural women earn additional income by preserving and promoting traditional handicrafts. She also organized numerous healthcare, education, and charity programs for those in need.
Queen Sirikit has always shown great compassion for poor people
Talking about preserving traditions, she has been a passionate advocate for Thai traditional textile arts. Queen Sirikit often wears traditional Thai attire on important occasions to highlight and promote the value of Thai culture. Many cultural fairs and art performances have been supported and organized under her patronage.
She is widely admired for her graceful demeanor and for helping to shape Thailand’s image as a warm and friendly nation on the international stage. In recognition of her many contributions, since 1976, Mother’s Day has been moved to her birthday, August 12th, to honor her as the Mother of all Thai people.
One of the most touching aspects of Thai Mother’s Day is its connection to the value of “bun khun” - the moral obligation to repay the kindness of one’s parents. This concept is at the heart of many Thai Mother’s Day customs, passed down through generations.
Thai people are taught from a young age to appreciate and express gratitude to their mothers, not just in words, but through actions. Simple acts like giving flowers to mothers can carry powerful emotional weight and reflect strong family values.
It is a time to express the deep love and affection for mothers
But this day also takes on a royal dimension. Her tireless efforts to uplift the lives of Thai people have earned her deep admiration and affection. Therefore, this day is also an opportunity for the Thai people to show their deep respect for the Thai Royal Family. The Grand Palace holds a grand ceremony to honor the Queen.
Among the many Thai Mother’s Day customs, giving jasmine garlands is the most cherished. Jasmine in Thai culture represents purity, gentleness, and a mother’s unconditional love. Children give small garlands of jasmine to their mothers, often while kneeling at their feet as a sign of gratitude and respect. The most heartwarming cultural experiences in Thailand you can witness.
Giving jasmine garlands to the mother is the most common gesture on Thai Mother’s Day
At school on this day, special ceremonies are organized and students invite their mothers to attend. During the event, children may perform songs, write thank-you letters, and bring gifts (maybe made by themselves). How precious the mother-child bond really is!
Spirituality also plays a big role on this day too. Many Thai families begin Mother’s Day by visiting temples. Those who no longer have their mothers often visit temples to light incense and pray. Hoping that their mothers, from a faraway place, will continue to bring them good fortune in life.
Beyond the family, Mother’s Day in Thailand is also seen as an opportunity to give back to the community. Many people volunteer their time or donate to causes that support single mothers or elderly women. In rural areas, it’s not uncommon for groups to visit senior homes with a little company to brighten their day.
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Since Mother’s Day coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, the entire country joins in a nationwide tribute. Streets are decorated with portraits of the Queen adorned with blue ribbons (her royal color), lights, and fresh flowers. Public places are lit up with dazzling lights. The Grand Palace and Sanam Luang will host official ceremonies celebrating this day.
People visit temples to pray for blessings and good fortune for their mothers
One of the most moving experiences for tourists is attending a candlelight ceremony on the evening of August 12. These are held across the country, in both small towns and major cities. Locals gather in public squares with candles in their hands, praying for the Queen Mother’s health. You don’t need to sing along to Thai songs to feel the emotion. Just being surrounded by heartfelt voices makes you have an indescribable feeling.
In smaller towns, you might be lucky enough to witness school celebrations or temple ceremonies. Sometimes, temples host events open to the public where you can see children offering jasmine garlands to their mothers or monks giving blessings to families. Locals are often welcoming, and you may even be invited to participate.
Restaurants, especially family-run ones, tend to be busy with multi-generational gatherings. Many offer Mother’s Day promotions or set menus for family meals. “The dishes are like mom used to cook”, some restaurants said.
Many Thais now celebrate Mother’s Day with modern tokens of appreciation rather than just visiting the temple. The young now can take their beloved mama to shopping malls or have a spa day. And of course, they will pay all. Thailand’s vibrant tourism scene means there are many ways for lucky moms to have a wonderful time. During your Chiang Mai tour, you’ll often see families enjoying a relaxing long weekend together.
Like everywhere else in the world, social media now plays a big role in how people celebrate. On August 12, platforms are filled with public declarations of love for mom. Many young Thais take the opportunity to post childhood photos. And for those who can’t be physically with their moms, video calls and online gift deliveries help bridge the distance.
In a world that often moves too fast, Thai Mother’s Day is a gentle reminder for the young to slow down and look back at their family. How about booking a Thailand tour on this day with the people who’ve given us life and love? It’s one of the most meaningful moments you can experience during your Thailand travel in August. Contact Asia King Travel today to celebrate Mother’s Day like never before!
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