Running until Jan 19, the "2nd Un Ai Rak Khlai Khwam Nao (Love And Warmth At Winter's End) Winter Festival" takes place at the Royal Plaza on the grounds of Dusit Palace and Sanam Suea Pa with His Majesty the King's royal permission.
The fair is open from 10am to 9pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10pm on Friday and Saturday. Entry is free. This year, the theme is "The River Of Rattanakosin" and visitors can expect a delightful atmosphere full of fun and happiness with all the splendour of Thai arts, culture and traditions.
The festival features exhibitions on Thai history and the value of the waterways of Rattanakosin. There is particular focus on river-based life and culture with numerous plants and art pieces, such as the model of Aisawan Thipphaya-at Pavilion from Bang Pa-In Palace in Ayutthaya, models of several royal barges and models of buildings dating from the early Rattanakosin period up to the present day.
People can visit the royal family's shops, taste food from both floating and ordinary markets and enjoy cultural performances. They can also help local charities by buying tickets for lucky draws and lotteries.
Visitors are encouraged to don traditional Thai costumes in the style worn during the reign of King Rama V or any traditional costumes from different regions of the country.
For more information, visit http://Phralan.com or the Facebook page Un Ai Rak Fanpage.
Exploring Thon Buri Palace
From Dec 15-28, Phra Ratchawang Doem or Thon Buri Palace offers free admission to the public from 9am to 3.30pm daily. This is to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the establishment of Krung Thonburi city by King Taksin the Great. The palace is currently in the compound of the Royal Thai Navy headquarters on Bangkok's Thon Buri side.
The palace was built during the reign of King Taksin as a royal residence when Thon Buri was the capital during 1767-1782. Important historical areas in the palace compound include the throne hall, the throne room, the double palace, the royal palace, the shrine of the king and the greenhouse.
Normally, advanced permission of up to two weeks is required to visit the palace. Also, only group visits are allowed with an entry fee of 100 baht per head for adults and 60 baht per head for children.
Contact the Phra Ratchawang Doem Conservation Foundation at 02-475-4117 or 02-466-9355.
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