0 saved#5,801 of 6,224

Bhutan National Day

Join the festivities on Bhutan National Day and experience the vibrant culture, traditions, and happiness of this beautiful country!

Thursday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEDecember 17

OBSERVED INBhutan

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYRegional

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for December 17, because it's time to celebrate Bhutan National Day! This holiday commemorates the coronation of the first King of Bhutan in 1907 and has been celebrated every year since then. Bhutan is a small country located in the eastern Himalayas, known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture. On this day, people come together to honor their country's history and heritage through traditional dances, parades, and other festivities. So let's join in on the celebrations and learn more about this beautiful nation on Bhutan National Day!

TIMELINE

Bhutan National Day Timeline

First King Coronation

Ugyen Wangchuck is crowned as the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) of Bhutan, establishing the Wangchuck dynasty.

Establishment of National Assembly

King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck establishes the National Assembly, initiating a series of modernizations in Bhutanese government and society.

Bhutan Joins United Nations

Bhutan becomes a member of the United Nations, strengthening its relationships with the global community.

Transition to Constitutional Monarchy

King Jigme Singye Wangchuck abdicates the throne in favor of his son, and introduces the draft constitution, transitioning Bhutan into a constitutional monarchy.

First Democratic Elections

Bhutan holds its first democratic elections, marking the official transition from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Bhutan National Day

Dress in traditional Bhutanese attire

Embrace the culture and dress up in traditional Bhutanese attire to celebrate National Day. This could be a fun activity for friends and family to do together.

ATTEND

Attend a local cultural festival

Many cities and towns in Bhutan hold cultural festivals on National Day. Attend one of these festivals to experience the vibrant traditions, food, and music of Bhutan.

COOK

Cook and enjoy Bhutanese dishes

Try your hand at cooking some traditional Bhutanese dishes and share them with friends and family. This is a great way to celebrate National Day while also learning about the country's cuisine.

WATCH

Watch a Bhutanese film or documentary

Celebrate National Day by learning more about Bhutan's history and culture through a Bhutanese film or documentary. This can be a great way to educate yourself and others about the country.

PLANT

Plant a tree in honor of Bhutan's commitment to conservation

Bhutan is known for its dedication to conservation and sustainability. Honor this aspect of the country by planting a tree on National Day, or participate in a local tree-planting event.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Bhutan National Day is Important

Unites the nation

Bhutan National Day brings people from all walks of life together in celebration of their shared history and identity. Festivities, parades, and cultural events are held across the country, fostering a sense of unity and national pride among the Bhutanese people.

Celebrates the founding of Bhutan as a nation

On December 17th, 1907, Bhutan became an independent and unified nation under the leadership of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck. Bhutan National Day celebrates this historic event and the establishment of Bhutanese national identity.

Promotes cultural heritage

Bhutan National Day is a day to showcase the rich culture, traditions, and customs of Bhutan. The country's unique way of life, influenced by Buddhism and Himalayan geography, is celebrated and shared with the world on this important holiday.

Related holidays

SUN

Nov 2026

Culture

Coronation Day of His Majesty the King of Bhutan

Join the celebration of Coronation Day in Bhutan, honoring the beloved King and his reign with colorful parades, traditional dances, and cultural festivities!

0Read

SUN

Feb 2026