The Ministry of Culture is joining hands with other government agencies, the private sector, and cultural networks in organizing the event “The 243rd Year of Rattanakosin City under Royal Benevolence” to celebrate the founding anniversary of Rattanakosin, or Bangkok.

Minister of Culture Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol said that the event, comprising many cultural activities, will be held from 23 to 27 April 2025 in three areas, namely the Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, the National Museum Bangkok, and Wat Prayurawongsawas (known colloquially as Wat Prayoon).

The organizing of this event is meant to recall the gracious kindness of King Rama I, who established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand, on the occasion of the 243rd anniversary of Rattaanaksin City on 21 April 1782. It is also intended to honor all Chakri kings, as they have brought stability and prosperity to the country throughout the period.

The program at the Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park includes the Immersive Art Exhibition “Light of Royal Wisdom,” in honor of His Majesty the King and past monarchs of the Royal House of Chakri, academic activities, cultural shows, such as Lakhon Nok Drama and Khon Masked Drama, music performances, demonstrations of cultural heritage, a market for Thai food and local food from all regions of the country, a market for Cultural Products of Thailand, and an artist market.

Activities at the National Museum Bangkok feature a night museum program, open-air film screenings, and sales of food and local products. At Wat Prayoon, visitors will enjoy a temple fair, cultural performances, cultural tours, cycling at night time, a bazaar of cultural products, and folk song and food contests.

The history of Rattanakosin dates back to the year 1782, when King Rama I established Rattanakosin, or Bangkok, as the capital. The King was also the founder of the Royal House of Chakri, of which the present monarch, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, is the 10th king.

King Rama I’s most long-lasting creation was perhaps the city of Bangkok (Rattanakosin). Before 1782, it was only a small trading community, but the first Chakri King transformed it into a thriving cosmopolitan city. His reign has been called a “reconstruction” of the Thai state and Thai culture, using Ayutthaya as the model while at the same time not slavishly imitating all aspects of the old capital.