วันหยุดเดือนกรกฎาคม (Holidays in July in Thailand)

ประเทศไทย, or Thailand, offers a vibrant tapestry of cultural events and public holidays. July, in particular, is a month marked by significant Buddhist observances and a national holiday, providing opportunities for reflection, celebration, and travel. Understanding these holidays is crucial for both locals and tourists planning their activities in the Kingdom. The most important holidays in July revolve around the Buddhist calendar. Two significant dates are Asanha Bucha Day (วันอาสาฬหบูชา) and Wan Khao Phansa (วันเข้าพรรษา). Asanha Bucha Day, typically falling in July, commemorates the day on which the Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples in the Deer Park at Sarnath. This event, known as the “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma,” is considered the beginning of Buddhism. On this day, devout Buddhists will visit temples to participate in ceremonies, listen to sermons, offer alms to monks, and practice meditation. It’s a day of profound spiritual significance, reflecting the core tenets of Buddhist philosophy. Often, elaborate candle processions, or *wian tian*, take place in the evening, adding a beautiful visual dimension to the religious observance. Following closely on the heels of Asanha Bucha Day is Wan Khao Phansa, also known as Buddhist Lent. This marks the beginning of the three-month rainy season retreat for monks. During Khao Phansa, monks traditionally remain in their monasteries for intensive meditation and study. It’s a period of heightened spiritual focus. Laypeople traditionally offer necessities, such as candles, robes, and food, to the monks to support them during this period of retreat. The “candle festival” associated with Khao Phansa, particularly in Ubon Ratchathani, is a spectacular display of intricately carved wax sculptures depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and Thai history. These colossal candles are paraded through the streets in a vibrant celebration before being presented to the temples. While Asanha Bucha and Khao Phansa are deeply religious, July also contains a significant national holiday: His Majesty the King’s Birthday (วันเฉลิมพระชนมพรรษาพระบาทสมเด็จพระเจ้าอยู่หัว) falls on July 28th. This is a day of national celebration honoring the King of Thailand. Public buildings are decorated with flags and royal portraits, and various events are held to commemorate the occasion. This national holiday is a time for reflection on the contributions of the monarchy to Thai society and national unity. It’s a day of patriotic fervor and public displays of affection and respect for the King. Businesses and government offices typically close for the day, allowing people to spend time with their families and participate in celebrations. Planning around these holidays is essential. Banks and government offices are typically closed on these days, and traffic in popular tourist areas can be heavier than usual, especially around religious sites. Many Thais take advantage of the long weekends created by these holidays to travel, so booking accommodation and transportation in advance is highly recommended. Beyond the specific holidays, July, being the rainy season, offers a different perspective on Thailand. While some outdoor activities may be limited, the lush green landscapes are particularly beautiful, and the reduced tourist crowds can make for a more authentic experience. Furthermore, many hotels and resorts offer lower rates during the rainy season. In conclusion, July in Thailand is a rich and diverse month, blending spiritual reflection with national pride. Understanding the significance of Asanha Bucha, Wan Khao Phansa, and His Majesty the King’s Birthday allows visitors and residents alike to fully appreciate the cultural fabric of the Kingdom. From attending temple ceremonies to witnessing the spectacular candle festivals, July provides a unique window into the heart of Thai culture and traditions.

1414×2000 library information from library.nida.ac.th