12 August stays Thai public holiday for Queen Sirikit

Thailand's Cabinet has confirmed that 12 August will continue as an annual public holiday, while also formally designating it a national commemorative day in honour of the late Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

The decision was announced by Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythale Laksmisangchan after the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 21 July. The date marks the Queen Mother's birthday and is also observed nationally as Mother's Day.

For foreigners living in Thailand, the announcement confirms there is no change to the long-standing August holiday when arranging work, school schedules, domestic travel or appointments with government services. Employers and individual businesses may have their own closure arrangements, so travellers and residents should check directly where necessary.

Cabinet formally recognises commemorative day

The Cabinet approved a proposal from the Secretariat of the Prime Minister to officially recognise 12 August as a national commemorative day, while retaining its existing status as a public holiday.

According to the government, royal merit-making ceremonies take place annually on the date to commemorate the Queen Mother's birth anniversary.

The move follows the Queen Mother's death on 24 October 2025, after which Thailand entered a period of national mourning. The government said the decision reflected the Thai people's continuing gratitude for her lifelong dedication and contributions to the country and its people.

A key date in Thailand's annual calendar

Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, was born on 12 August. The date has long held a dual place in Thailand's calendar as both her birthday observance and National Mother's Day.

The Cabinet decision means the holiday remains in place each year, rather than being removed or replaced following her death. It also gives the date formal recognition as a national day of commemoration.

For visitors, 12 August can be a busy period for domestic travel, with many Thai residents taking advantage of the public holiday. Foreign residents dealing with official business may also wish to allow extra time around the date, particularly if it falls close to a weekend.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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22 July 2026