National Children’s Day, or Wan Dek in Thai, is a fabulous holiday in Thailand dedicated to the well-being and happiness of children. It is the most popular festival in Thailand.
The holiday is celebrated on the second Saturday of January each year and is marked by various activities and events organised by government agencies, schools, and community groups.
History and Origin
The origins of Children’s Day in Thailand can be traced back to King Rama VI, the sixth monarch of the Chakri Dynasty.
In 1913, King Rama VI declared April 1st as Children’s Day, and it was celebrated as a national holiday until the end of his reign in 1925.
The Thai government reintroduced the holiday in the early 1980s, and it has been celebrated annually since then.
How Thailand Celebrates Children’s Day
National Children’s Day is a time for Thai children to enjoy special activities and events designed for their well-being, happiness, and overall development.
Children’s Day Parade
One of the most popular activities on Children’s Day is the “Children’s Day Parade” organised by the government.
The parade features colourful floats, traditional Thai dance performances, and various mascots designed to entertain and delight children.
It is usually held in major cities, and many children and their families participate enthusiastically.
Other Interesting Activities
In addition to the parade, there are also other activities that schools and community groups organise. These include:
- Sports Competitions.
- Art and Craft Contests.
- Free Entry to the Amusement Parks.
- Fun Fairs.
- Health and Safety Awareness Campaigns.
The activities are designed to promote children’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being and encourage them to develop their talents and skills.
Government agencies, schools, and community groups work together to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and practising good hygiene.
They also provide information on preventing accidents and injuries and staying safe in different situations.
In recent years, Children’s Day in Thailand has also become an opportunity for organisations and individuals to give back to their communities.
Many organisations and individuals use this day to organise charity events and fundraisers to benefit children in need, such as those living in poverty or with disabilities.
Conclusion
The festival has gained immense popularity over the years, with the entire Thai population coming together to celebrate it. Everyone participates in the festival in some way or the other. For instance, during this year’s celebration, the Thai police in Narathiwat demonstrated a crowd control routine to children.
The entire nation joining in facilitating a day of fun and learning for children adds to the charm of National Children’s Day, or Wan Dek in Thailand.
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