National Day of Bhutan
Next: December 17, 2026
One nation, gathered in Thimphu.
The story
Where it comes from
Bhutan's National Day, Gyalyong Duechen, falls on 17 December, the anniversary of a gathering at Punakha in 1907. On that day the country's leaders, officials and representatives met and chose Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck as the first Druk Gyalpo, or king, founding the Wangchuck dynasty that still reigns. Bhutan's national broadcaster describes the day as the moment the country came together under one monarch after years of conflict between regional leaders.
How it's celebrated
The main celebration is held at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu. It opens with a chipdrel procession and the raising of the national flag, followed by the King's address to the nation, awards, and a cultural programme of mask dances and regional songs and dances. Districts across the country hold their own celebrations, and the day ends with the Tashi Lebey, a traditional closing song and dance.
Did you know
- At the 2023 celebration in Thimphu, the King's address was broadcast live to the crowd on a giant LED screen.
- In 2024 the Thimphu celebration, attended by more than 20,000 people, added Bhutan's first civil parade, honouring 63 roadside workers, firefighters, social workers and other unsung heroes.
- The 2023 celebration featured a nine-minute dance medley by more than 1,000 performers in regional costume, with a performance by Paralympians.
Coming up next
- World Arabic Language Day · December 18, 2026
- International Migrants Day · December 18, 2026
- A Christmas Carol Is Published · December 19, 2026
- International Human Solidarity Day · December 20, 2026
- World Basketball Day · December 21, 2026
- World Meditation Day · December 21, 2026