The U.S. embassy commemorated America’s Independence Day holiday with a “Music in the Park” celebration in Bangkok.
Ambassador Glyn Davies and his wife Jaqueline hosted the June 29 event at the Intercontinental Hotel, marking the 241st anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain.
Davies said the jazz and blues theme was meant to remind everyone of the sense of community and friendship that is created when people gather in public places, especially in parks, to enjoy family time or live music together.
He encouraged people to find moments of joy and quiet in the bustle of life in serene places, comparing Bangkok’s Lumpini Park to New York City’s Central Park, calling them “havens of serenity and greenery in the midst of mega-cities of energy and excitement”.
The Thai and foreign guests were able to explore the recreational offerings of Central Park at an Intercontinental exhibit and enjoyed highlights of regional cuisine from across the United States.
A moment of silence was observed for one of Thailand’s greatest jazz musicians, HM the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the only Thai monarch born in the United States and who was loved both Thais and foreigners.