Pattaya will be a far quieter place over coming months as the city joins the rest of Thailand in mourning His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej by cancelling virtually all official planned festivals and events.
Official Loy Krathong celebrations along with the International Fireworks Festival, Pattaya Countdown for New Year’s, Naklua Walking Street, the Buddhist Amulet Fair and pretty much anything construed as fun, festive or celebratory were axed or postponed indefinitely by Oct. 15 following the passing of His Majesty two days earlier.
The government has declared an official mourning period of one year, banned celebrations for a month and advised entertainment providers to “tone down” their offerings. Many chose to simply cancel.
Loy Krathong, a traditional cultural holiday, will not be celebrated officially, but those wishing to float flower-and-incense boats can do so privately as long as they maintain decorum, officials said.
Chonburi Deputy Gov. Phawat Lertmukhda and Banglamung District senior secretary Aderek Maimongkol began the official ceremonies to mourn the late king at the district office’s Prachakom Pavilion Saturday with civil servants, police, military, students and residents attending.
Pattaya has opened the second floor of city hall to mourners who wish to sign condolence books.
Lertmukhda also issued a letter to Banglamung and Pattaya businesses, asking them to cooperate with the following:
- Entertainment venues in open areas (especially along main roads) are permitted to open but celebrations, music or bright lights are prohibited.
- Entertainment areas in Walking Street are open to the public as well, but low key only. Show clubs and gogo bars have been warned that showing too much skin is prohibited.
- Entertainment venues in all locations in open air or with glass fronts are asked to cover the activities. No shows allowed or loud music.
- Beer bars can open but no loud music, shows or inappropriate clothing.
- Opening hours for all entertainment venues are normal within the respected ‘Zoning’.
