The International New Year Day has been adopted. On the first of
January, people offer food to monks at the temple or at a particular
site designated by government offices of private organizations. In
Bangkok, the Phramaane ground and the lawn in front of the district
offices are popular places.
The New Year's Day for the Thais is the day to male merit and to offer
good wishes to those one loves and respects. In the past, people went
to ask for blessing from their elders. At present, New Year cards are
sent instead and gifts are given too. This is certainly the influence
of Western culture, which is well received among the Thais.
