Serving as the historic heart within the larger city of Bangkok, the Rattanakosin district has enjoyed a long and prosperous history. Founded in 1782 by King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I), the capital’s “Old Town” area officially turns 244 this year.
As part of the grand celebration for this anniversary, Thailand’s Ministry of Culture has announced a slew of events that will run from April 22nd to 26th, 2026. The purpose is to honor King Rama I, as well as the Chakri Dynasty, for their role in providing Thailand with national stability and cultural prosperity.
Event highlights
The celebration events will be held under the so-called “One Story, Three Areas” concept, taking place across three different locations.
- Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park will present the “Living Rattanakosin: Past, Present, and Future Together” event, which includes multimedia exhibitions, a cultural marketplace, and Generative AI Thai costume photography. Additionally, the venue will feature “Khon” masked dance performances, as well as concerts by famous artists such as ATLAS and Getsunova.
- National Museum Bangkok will feature “Rattanakosin Royal Night: Glorious Palace,” which includes a Night Museum experience, as well as outdoor film screenings. Rare cultural heritage displays will also be showcased throughout the event, including Human Chess and Nang Yai shadow puppets.
- Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan will host the “Klong San – Kudi Chin Cultural Walk” event, featuring activities such as a “Three Religions” food competition, religious merit-making, and The Great Sermon of the Vessantara Jataka, in honor of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
The Ministry of Culture is also inviting the public and international visitors to wear traditional Thai attire during the celebration period as part of the “Proud to Wear Thai Across the Nation” initiative.
Furthermore, a commemorative comic book, titled “Rattanakosin: The Noppharat Ratchathani,” has been published by the Ministry in an effort to educate Thai youth about Rattanakosin’s 244-year history.
For more information, please follow the Ministry of Culture via its Facebook page or contact the Culture Hotline at 1765.