BANGKOK, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- A Thai traditional candle lighting and prayer ceremony will take place at Bangkok's Sanam Luang, temples around Thailand and temples overseas on Dec. 31 to welcome the new year, during which people will also mourn for late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
According to a press conference held on Monday by the Thai government, the event, which is called "Candlelight of Siam", will will start at 19:00, when both Thais and foreign visitors are invited to join the pre-New Year Countdown activities including writing an oath to live a good life, getting a candle for the lighting ceremony, and taking part in Buddhist rituals.
At 21:00, people will be invited to take part in an 89-second silence to pay respect to late King. A simplified Buddhist chanting will take place, which will be followed by the countdown.
