National Elephant Day (Thailand)
On 26 May 1998, the Thai government declared the 13th of March to annually be the Thai National Elephant Day or Chang Thai Day (Thai: วันช้างไทย). The observance was suggested by the Asian Elephant Foundation of Thailand and submitted to the Coordinating Subcommittee for the Conservation of Thai Elephants. The date was chosen because the Royal Forest Department designated the white elephant as the national animal of Thailand on 13 March 1963.[1]
Overview
Purpose
Chang Thai Day has three main purposes. The first is to show how significant elephants are to Thailand. The second is to demonstrate how the Thai culture depends on the elephants. Lastly, this annual celebration promotes awareness about protecting and conserving the Thai elephant population and its habitats.
Activities
To raise awareness, activities take place around the nation.[3] In Chiang Mai Province, activities include buffet luncheons for elephants, a traditional blessing ceremony and a special elephant show. These activities are organized by Chiang Mai University and the Maesa Elephant Camp.
References
- ISBN 978-0-08-046736-8.
- ^ "Thailand's Elephants". Thai Elephant Conservation Center. Forest Industry Organization. Retrieved 2015-01-27.
- ^ "Thai Elephant Day Celebration today". Thai PBS. 2014-03-13. Retrieved 2015-01-27.