Major cultural events to be held in April
April each year marks some important occasions in Thailand. The National Culture Committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, during its meeting on March 22, acknowledged the organizing of major cultural events, to be held in April 2018.
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A Thai heritage preservation week will be held from April 2 to 8 to celebrate the birthday anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on April 2, which is also observed as Thailand’s National Heritage Preservation Day.
During the week, people will be allowed to visit historical parks and museums across the country free of charge. Special exhibitions on Thai cultural heritage will be organized. Outstanding persons in Thai cultural preservation will be honored, while campaigns will be launched to provide people with knowledge about Thailand’s cultural heritage.
The meeting was told that more than 20 organizations would join hands in organizing various activities to celebrate the Songkran Festival, the traditional Thai New Year. The celebrations focus on the concept of Thainess, safety, and efficient use of water. Songkran celebrants have been suggested to just sprinkle water over each other instead of throwing water aggressively.
In Bangkok, the Songkran Festival will be celebrated from April 12 to 15, mainly at Wat Pathumwanaram, Siam Paragon, Siam Square, Silom Road, and Khao San Road. There is also a Songkran ASEAN Festival in various provinces. Songkran is Thailand’s merriest festival and is widely observed across the nation.
Another important event is a cultural festival, with a variety of activities, in commemoration of the 236th anniversary of the Rattanakosin, or Bangkok, period. It will be held between April 21 and 30 at Rattanakosin Island, the heart of the original city. Other venues include Santi Chai Prakan Park and Lan Khon Mueang near the Bangkok City Hall.
The history of Rattanakosin dates back to the year 1782, when King Rama I established Bangkok as the capital. Bangkok abounds in cultural and historical sites reflecting the country’s long history and unique culture.
The city has grown to become an important political, social, and economic center of Southeast Asia. Its influence in the arts, politics, fashion, education, and entertainment, as well as its role as a business, financial, and cultural center has made Bangkok a global city.