Bangkok, Thailand — Following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, the Royal Thai Government has declared a period of national mourning. While most aspects of daily life and tourism remain uninterrupted, public activities and cultural events across the country are being respectfully adjusted to reflect the solemn atmosphere of remembrance.
Public Activities and Events
The government has not ordered a suspension of public events, entertainment, or business operations. However, event organisers are urged to exercise discretion and make appropriate adjustments during this sensitive time.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the government recognises many activities and festivals were planned in advance, particularly in the entertainment, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Therefore, these events may proceed, provided they are conducted with dignity and decorum befitting the national mourning period.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has confirmed that its official events will continue in modified formats, with festive and celebratory elements postponed until further notice. The adjustments are intended to honour Her Majesty’s enduring legacy and express the nation’s collective respect.
Adjustments to Royal and Cultural Events
The Bureau of the Royal Household has announced that the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo) will be temporarily closed from 26 October to 8 November 2025 to accommodate Royal Merit-Making Ceremonies held in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Across Thailand, major festivals are being modified rather than cancelled, ensuring the preservation of tradition while aligning with the tone of national mourning.
Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2025
-
Dates: 27 October – 5 November 2025
-
Venue: Sukhothai Historical Park
-
Adjustments: The festival will feature a nightly candle-lighting tribute at 21:21 hrs in memory of Her Majesty. The Noppamas beauty contest will be cancelled, and fireworks will be limited to traditional Sukhothai-style displays that convey cultural reverence rather than celebration.
Ayutthaya Loi Krathong Festival 2025
-
The festival will proceed as planned, with all activities toned down to reflect the national mourning period. Candle-lighting ceremonies will serve as tributes in remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
Vijit Chao Phraya 2025
-
Initially scheduled from 1 November to 15 December 2025, the event has been postponed to 1 December 2025 to align with the national mourning period.
Tourism and Daily Life in Thailand
Thailand remains fully open and operational throughout the mourning period. Tourist attractions, transportation services, restaurants, hotels, and shops continue to welcome both local and international visitors.
However, visitors are respectfully encouraged to dress modestly and act with sensitivity—especially when visiting temples, royal sites, and government buildings. Loud festivities and inappropriate displays of celebration should be avoided in public spaces during this period.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has expressed its deepest condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, and joins the nation in honouring her extraordinary life of devotion, compassion, and service to the Thai people.
