Thailand marked National Elephant Day on March 13 with a special ceremony at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang, where people gave morning alms to monks with the participation of the local governor, officials, and elephants.
In celebration, a contest for the best-decorated elephant food stall showcased fruit-carving talents of various groups, with Suan Dusit University’s Lampang campus taking top honors, followed by Muang Yao Municipality and Wor Kaew Sub-District Administration.
To honor the elephants, no shows were scheduled, providing a peaceful day for their enjoyment. The commemoration aims to promote awareness of elephant preservation, prompted by the Thai Elephant Conservation Committee.
While an initial date was considered to coincide with a historical victory by King Naresuan, it conflicted with Thai Armed Forces Day, leading to the selection of March 13. Officially established in 1998, National Elephant Day underscores the ongoing commitment to these majestic creatures' wellbeing.