Thailand was today (Aug 11) preparing for its Mother's Day celebrations marking the birthday of Queen Sirikit.
The annual national holiday on August 12 is for the Queen of late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or Rama IV, who died in October 2016.
Sirikit's son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, married Queen Suthida in 2019 but locals still mark the birthdays of the much-loved previous monarchs.
Shopping malls and public buildings are adorned with floral displays, flags and portraits of Sirikit while government offices, schools and businesses close for the day.
Tomorrow will be the 88th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
U.S. Ambassador Michael George DeSombre said: ''On behalf of the United States Mission to the Kingdom of Thailand, I extend our warmest wishes to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother for health, happiness, and prosperity on the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty’s 88th birthday.
''Her Majesty has been an unwavering friend of the United States and instrumental in strengthening the enduring partnership between our two great nations.''
