This evening the Royal Barge procession on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok, will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the King Bhumibol on Thailand’s throne. The procession is due to start this evening (7:30pm I believe). Already people are crowding along the banks of the river in preparation for a really grand spectacle.
Grand Royal Barge Procession – Thailand Grand Festival:
 
One of the most extravagant events to celebrate the 60th anniversary of his majesty’s accession to the throne is the Royal Barge Procession. There will be 52 of spectacle barges rowed by 2,082 crewmen from the Royal Thai Navy. The formation of the vessels is 1,200 meters long and 90 meters wide.The 3-kilometre long procession will take place at 7:30 p.m. on 12 June 2006 along the Chao Phraya River , from the Tha Wasukri landing to King Rama I Bridge in Bangkok. During the period, monarchs and their representatives from 28 countries will visit to join the celebrations. His Majesty the King and the royal dignitaries will attend the show.A total of 52 barges will be used in this grand procession, with four major royal barges, namely the Subanahongsa, or Golden Swan, the Anatanagaraj, or Multiple-headed Naga, the Anekajatibhujonga, or Innumerable Naga Figures, and the Narai Song Suban King Rama IX. Oarsmen will come from various units within the Royal Thai Navy.
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