Join the 244th Rattanakosin Anniversary Festival: Three Locations, Three Styles for Spiritual, Relaxed, and Cultural Experiences You Cant Miss

Prepare to join the 244th Rattanakosin Anniversary celebration from 22-26 April 2026 with highlight events at three venues: the National Museum Bangkok, Wat Prayurawongsawas, and Chulalongkorn University's 100th Anniversary Park. Enjoy Khon dance, traditional theater, open-air movie screenings, and concerts by famous artists, all free throughout the event.

Tracing back over two centuries of prosperity, on 21 April 2026, the birthday of Bangkok marks 244 years. The Ministry of Culture hosts a grand cultural festival across three locations with three distinct atmospheres, inviting Thai people to revisit the beauty of the grand palace, pay respects for good fortune, and enjoy open-air concerts—all free from 22-26 April.

History of 21 April, the founding day of Rattanakosin Kingdom

On 21 April 1782, His Majesty King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (King Rama I) graciously ordered the relocation of the capital from Thonburi across the Chao Phraya River to the east bank. The king also held the city pillar raising ceremony to bring auspiciousness. This marked the beginning of the prosperous Rattanakosin era continuing to this day. In 2026, the 244th anniversary is celebrated with extensive activities catering to all generations.

Mark these three free key locations around Bangkok for the festivities

1. National Museum Bangkok: "Rattanakosin Royal Night"

Experience the rare nighttime atmosphere of Wang Na Palace under the theme "Radiant Palace." Enjoy beautiful light displays and watch high art performances such as traditional open-air theater (Lakhon Nok), Thai folk music (Phleng Choi), Likay drama, and a vintage-style open-air cinema in the heart of the city.

How to get there

• By MRT: Take the MRT Blue Line to Sanam Chai Station (Exit 1 for Museum Siam), then catch bus numbers 47 or 53, or enjoy a 15-minute walk through the city.
• By bus: Bus routes 3, 6, 9, 30, 33, 43, 53, 59, 64, 65, 70, 80, 82, 91, 123, 124, 203, 503, 507 serve the area.
• By boat: Disembark at Tha Phra Chan or Tha Maharaj, then walk a short distance.

2. Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: "Cultural Walk Khlong San-Khadeejeen"

For devotees, this historic community offers a unique atmosphere to pay respects and receive blessings on the capital’s anniversary. Enjoy Khon dance performances by the Chao Phraya riverside and traditional Thai music amid a warm neighborhood setting.

How to get there

• By MRT: Take the MRT Blue Line to Sanam Chai Station (Exit 4 at Pak Khlong Talat), then walk across Phut Bridge or take a ferry to Wat Kanlayanamit pier.
• By bus: Bus routes 3, 4, 7, 7ก, 8, 9, 21, 37, 42, 73, 82 stop at Suksa Naree School or Phut Bridge.
• By boat: Get off at Phut Bridge pier (Orange Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat), then walk across the bridge or follow the riverbank path to the temple.

3. Chulalongkorn University 100th Anniversary Park: "Living Rattanakosin"

A spot for youth and families seeking to experience Thai culture in a living form. Discover special exhibitions, Nora dance performances, and rare traditional games. End the night with lively Mor Lam music and concerts by renowned artists blending contemporary styles seamlessly.

How to get there

By MRT:

• Take the MRT Blue Line to Sam Yan Station (Exit 2), then take a MuvMi tuk-tuk or bus number 73.
• By BTS Skytrain Green Line: get off at National Stadium Station, then transfer to Shuttle Bus route 2 or walk along Banthat Thong Road (about 10-15 minutes).
• By bus: Bus routes 67, 73, 73ก, 113 (stop at Banthat Thong Road) or 4, 21, 25, 40 (stop at Rama IV Road, then transfer to a vehicle into Soi Chula 5).

Additional travel advice

• Avoid private cars: Since the event locations are in the old town and business districts with limited parking, public transportation is recommended for convenience.
• Special services: During the event, free shuttle buses operate between venues (please check announcements from the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority or Ministry of Culture for pick-up points).
• Travel apps: Use the ViaBus app to track bus locations in real-time, helping you plan your travel more accurately.

Visitor information

• Dates: 22 - 26 April 2026
• Time: 17:30 - 22:00
• Admission: Free throughout the event

The 244th anniversary of Rattanakosin’s founding in 2026 is not only a remembrance of the long history since King Rama I’s reign but also a showcase of cultural soft power adapting smoothly to modern times. Whether you enjoy nighttime photography at the National Museum, are a devotee visiting the Thonburi side at Wat Prayurawongsawas, or a young person seeking contemporary art at Chulalongkorn’s 100th Anniversary Park,

this event offers a great opportunity for Thais to reconnect with their roots through fun and accessible activities—all free of charge. If you're planning a trip in late April, get ready to be part of living history in the heart of Bangkok.