Bhutan's National Day is celebrated annually on December 17. The holiday commemorates the ascension to the throne of Ugyen Wangchuck, the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) of modern Bhutan, on this day in 1907. Observed as a public holiday, National Day is an occasion of great joy and reverence among the Bhutanese people who engage in various cultural and historical activities to mark the day.
On National Day, monasteries and dzongs (fortresses) around the country hold religious rituals and prayers, reflecting Bhutan's strong Buddhist traditions. Various dances and music performances, locally known as tsechus organized by monks, locals, or professional artists contribute to the vivid and bustling atmosphere. These are not just entertainment but deeply ingrained spiritual practices that are believed to confer blessings upon spectators and to instruct them in the teachings of Buddhism.
One of the major highlights of the National Day celebration in Bhutan is the national address by the King himself, with a large audience attentively listening to his speech about the progress and future of the country. The festivities also include traditional sporting events, such as archery and 'khuru' (dart-throwing), which are immensely popular in Bhutan. National Day in Bhutan is not just a celebration, but a way of honouring their heritage and demonstrating national unity, cultural richness, and societal progress.