Hundreds of couples gathered in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district on Saturday to officially register their marriages as part of a Valentine’s Day celebration, with many hoping to be among a select few to receive gold marriage certificates.
The event took place at the Jewellery Trade Center on Silom Road, where the district office partnered with public and private organisations to host the annual “Rak Na Bang Rak – Rak (Love) @ Bangrak” campaign.
The atmosphere was festive, reflecting the area’s long-standing reputation as Bangkok’s “District of Love”.
Participating organisations included the Bang Rak Cultural Council, the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association, the Federation of Thai Gem and Jewelry and Precious Metal Associations, along with major private-sector partners such as Central Group and Thai Beverage Plc.
Organisers said the off-site venue was selected to make marriage registration more accessible on Valentine’s Day, particularly for couples drawn to the auspicious name of Bang Rak.
Beyond the celebratory elements, the campaign also sought to encourage legal marriage registration as a foundation for stable family life.
A major attraction this year was a lucky draw offering 12 gold marriage certificates, with winners selected every two hours throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the Bang Rak district office itself saw a steady stream of couples from early morning.
More than 100 pairs who had booked appointments online were already in line before services officially began at 8am, some accompanied by family members and friends offering congratulations.
The venue was decorated with Valentine’s-themed displays, including heart-shaped installations where newlyweds posed for commemorative photos.
Registration opened with the first 10 couples invited to complete the process, with both heterosexual and same-sex couples taking part.
Online reservations for Valentine’s Day registrations were available from January 7 to February 9, during which 1,259 couples secured time slots. Walk-in registrations were also accepted, with services continuing until 4pm.
