It was authentic, hot and spicy for the Thai’s in Toronto who celebrated the 80th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on July 14 & 15 at the Nathan Philip Square.

It was the biggest ever Thai Community event with lots of activities, attractions and food galore. With the writers’ hand s folded in a prayer position and a bow….”Sawadee kah”!

“Sawadee” means welcome in Thailand and this is how we were greeted upon entering the festival. Although, we didn’t have to take off our shoes , we have to bow back and position our hands the same way too as a courtesy to the lovely ladies in their regal costumes. The festival gave us a virtual tour of Thailand except for the traffic. The centre stage was colourfully decorated, well sound, well lit and conspicuously hanging on the backdrop was a bigger than life photo of HM The King. Surrounding the venue were stalls made of woods and bamboo depicting the true spirit of Thailand market where you can actually bargain for stuff except for food.

Speaking of food, did you know that Thai cuisine blends five fundamental tastes: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter and salty? Thai cuisine is one interesting mixtures of ingredients, which includes garlic, chillies, lime juice, lemon grass and hmmm…fish sauce. Just like in any other Asian countries, the staple food in Thailand is rice, particularly jasmine rice. Aside from the famous pad Thai, one of my favourite is their chicken on the skewer topped with peanut sauce and completed with mango salad on the side. Believe me, all the food stalls there amazingly had these appetizing delicacies and the first ones to finish as well.

It drizzled a bit during the later part of the celebration but that didn’t bother the audience from experiencing the traditional Songkran festival and in enjoying the Cultural dance rendition of the performers to the rhythm of the walloping Afro-Asian drummers.

Although Thai’s population in Toronto is very nominal compared to other visible minorities, the fair itself was grand and the unity of Thais were truly remarkable to carry such a successful event, where everyone, including the spectators were high in spirits.

Kor Hai Pra Ong Song Pra Ja Rem (Long Live the King)!

Click here to view more photos »