The best things to do in Chiang Mai this weekend (May 8-11)

If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic to do this weekend instead, why not inspire yourself and recharge your mind at the 360Art Centre – a self-described sanctuary for creatives, digital nomads, art lovers and mindful explorers alike. Every Saturday through June the centre transforms with a Mystic Universe digital art exhibition that blends cosmic visuals, sacred geometry and vedic knowledge. For more active participants, enjoy art yoga, neurographic drawing, sound healing, tarot and other more meditative practices. Tickets range from the full five-hour experience to individual sessions, but note spaces are limited and can be booked in advance on a first come first serve basis. 

April 19 - June 28. B550 using code FRESHMIND, click here. 360Art Centre. 11am-7pm. 

Get ready for a genre-blending sonic trip as DJ Electromanteca of Cosmovisions Records lands in Chiang Mai this Friday for one night only before he prepares for his Europe tour. Known for his hypnotic fusion of Latin rhythms, tribal basslines and psychedelic grooves, Electromanteca brings his global underground energy straight to the city’s dancefloor. Whether you’re a world music junkie, trippy bass lover or just looking for something cool to balance out the tropical heat, expect a night of deep vibes and a whole lot of body movement that’s not to miss.

April 9. Free. Look inside, 163 Moon Muang soi 9. 9pm-late.

It’s that time of year again – love it or hate it, the strong smell of durian is back in the air, this time at Central Festival for the annual Durian Fest. Sample, savour and stuff yourself full with the king of fruit, this year prepared in brand new ways never seen before. Chef Chanon from Masterchef Thailand season three will be hosting the first unlimited durian omakase buffet in northern Thailand on May 9-10, with two seatings at 1pm and 5pm (pre-booking required). Go Green cafe is also at the event serving alcohol-free durian drink specials alongside other vendors serving everything from durian ice cream to durian shaped plushies.

May 6-12. Free to visit, durian omakase B899 per person. Central Chiang Mai Festival. 11am-9pm. 

If you’re missing the fun of Songkran already, fear not because Daddy Lion has you covered this weekend. Get soaked, have fun and enjoy a foam party that’s suitable for kids and adults alike this Saturday. A small entry fee gets you a free cotton candy or popcorn and family-friendly foam party access. The location has a large garden with play equipment for children and both outdoor and air-conditioned seating for parents. Although not quite as intense as the real thing, this is a great alternative this weekend among booze bans and scorching hot summer temperatures. 

May 10. B50 if you also dine, B100 if only playing in the foam. Daddy Lion. 1pm-6pm.

Bantaopui is celebrating their 10 year anniversary with a massive giveaway that will please many furry pet lovers this weekend. From morning to afternoon, the pet hospital will be giving away free health checks, worm medicine, rabies vaccines, and microchipping services (chips not free), and other souvenirs. There’s also a pet photobooth where you can take photos with your beloved or let them go solo for a new social media album post you’ve been meaning to do. The hospital specialises in most furry mammals, so everything from dogs and cats to rabbits and ferrets are welcome.  May 10. Free. Bantaopui Pet Hospital. 9am-6pm.

The annual Doi Suthep climbing tradition is back this weekend in celebration of Viskha Bucha and to pay homage to the sacred relics of Phra Borommathat Doi Suthep – one of the biggest traditions of Chiang Mai. The procession will begin at the Khruba Sriwichai monument at the foot of the mountain (just past Chiang Mai Zoo) at 5pm, where royally blessed water and robes will be taken up the mountain followed by traditional dancers and thousands of locals and visitors. The 11km walk up the mountain will end at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep on the mountain top where a ceremony will take place leading up to the signalling of Viskha Bucha at midnight. 

May 10. Free. Doi Suthep. 5pm onwards.

Head over to Oxygen Dining Room for an exclusive afternoon with Xavier Vignon – one of the most celebrated names in the wine world as he takes you through a journey of wines, philosophy and personal stories. This is a very rare opportunity to meet the master behind the label, complete with personal insights, tasting notes and one-to-one conversations with the master. Seats limited, booking in advance is required. 

May 9. B1,690 per person. Oxygen Dining Room. 1.30-3.30pm.