MILLIONS of Thais wore blue yesterday to celebrate the 84th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

Her Majesty was born on August 12, 1932. Because it was a Friday, her birthday by Thai tradition is associated with the colour blue.

Across all provinces, her loyal subjects woke up early to give alms to monks in dedication of her. Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra was among the people who joined the merit-making ritual in Sanam Luang where 185 monks showed up to collect alms.

Similar alms-giving ceremonies took place around the country. All participants were clad in blue.

Many people also donated blood to make merit for their beloved queen, while many others grew plants in her honour.

In Yasothon province, a 72-year-old man got up at 3am to prepare himself for a long bicycle ride to join an official ceremony to express best wishes and loyalty to Her Majesty on the occasion of her birthday at a big public park.

“I have done so for 12 years already. The ride is about 90 kilometres long back and forth,” Moon Meunhawong said.

His bicycle was decorated with Her Majesty’s picture and flowers. He also prepared a decorative banana-leaf tray, which he finally put before the picture of Her Majesty at the ceremony venue.

“I will continue to make such trips every year unless my health fails me,” Moon said.

Nation Multimedia Group (NMG), meanwhile, joined forces with the Surat Thani Provincial Administrative Organisation in organising a cycling event to celebrate the Queen’s birthday.

More than 2,500 cyclists turned out in blue and received greetings from news hosts from NMG. Adisak Limprungpatanakij, president of NMG subsidiary Nation Broadcasting Corporation, also joined the event.

The cycling parade covered 32km, highlighting several cultural attractions along the way. The Nation Bike Thailand 2016 also marked the 101st anniversary of the naming of Surat Thani by King Rama VI.

Her Majesty is the country’s maternal figure, so yesterday was also National Mother’s Day.

Children gave special treats to their mothers, some with jasmine garlands, some with a warm hug, some with a tempting meal, and some with a memorable outing.

The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri province apparently attracted a bigger crowd than usual yesterday.

“Tens of thousands of tourists have come here as families,” the zoo’s director Suriya Saengpong said.

He added that his facility had also organised several special activities to mark National Mothers’ Day.

Last night, Thais lit candles and sang royal anthems in various venues to mark Her Majesty’s birthday. The biggest turnout took place at Bangkok’s Sanam Luang.