December 5 is the birthday of Bhumibol Adulyadej, the King of Thailand. It is both Fathers' Day in Thailand and the country's national holiday. The King is widely revered by the Thai people and frequently seen as a unifying force in Thailand's fractured political landscape. This year the King celebrated his 86th birthday. There was a large gathering and candlelight service for the King on Sanam Luang, the large parade ground north of the Grand Palace.