Happy Songkran, people! It's the week of Thailand's most important holiday in the peak of sun-kissed summer where people in Bangkok will either escape the city's hustle and bustle or stay in for a low-key vacay.
Whatever group you're identified with for Songkran this year, let's check out the selection of best things to do in Bangkok during the holiday week that's filled various activities from chilling gallery-hopping to the wildest parties.
Keep in mind that water play in the public spaces is still not allowed this year, but you can still have fun with sprinkling water in certain events. See what you can and can't do, according to the government's regulations, here.
Find more inspiration from a wide range of art shows in the city.
It's become a tradition for us to round up all the coolest and greatest art exhibitions every month, and April—like any other months—has plenty for you to visit. Please check with the venues before the visit in case they close during the holidays.
Read more here.
Cool down the temps at Bangkok's best bars.
It's the summer summit, and that means the heat is getting the best of us. But don't you let the fun die out just because it's really hot out there. Try to calm the temps down at the city's drinkeries with the cool vibes and great drinks. Lennon's and The Bar at The House on Sathorn are the latest two establishments that have recently returned to the scene as well, just FYI.
Also, check out the best Bangkok bars for introverts in case you prefer some quiet after hours.
Sway to the beautiful Latin music at this Cuban hideout.
Havana Social is one hell of a good spot to have fun and dance the night away, and this Songkran won't be so dry if you come here on the 12th for the Fiesta Azul party that has prepared a lot of fun for you.
Venue: Havana Social / Date: April 12 (18:00-02:00) / Free Entry / Read more here.
Challenge your trivial knowledge at this quiz night hosted by Bangkok's quirkiest Greek restaurant.
Aesop's Bangkok will be hosting a quiz night every Thursday where you and your friends are challenged to the fun-themed questions for great prizes. Call up your gang and prepare to be the winner of the night.
Venue: Aesop's Bangkok / Date: Every Thursday (19:00-21:00) / Free Entry / Read more here.
Have some fun while helping Ukraine for a cause.
The sci-fi-themed dive bar Arcadia will host its very first event for its soft opening on April 14 that's aimed at raising money to help the Voices of Children organization and people affected by the war in Ukraine. Come and have some cool drinks while enjoying Ukrainian music and many nostalgic games from the arcade machines.
Venue: Arcadia / Date: April 14 (15:00 onwards) / Free Entry / Read more here.
Jump into the pool and dance to the hot sun.
If not bothered by the burning rays of sunlight, you are more than welcome to this pool party by Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit. A long list of DJs is prepped up to boost more fun into the event, not to mention refreshing drinks. Get your best swimsuit ready.
Venue: Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit / Date: April 14 (15:00-21:00) / B800 per person / Read more here.
Journey into outer space with the beloved Snoopy and friends at this cutting-edge installation exhibition.
House of Illumination has revealed the edition that sees the Peanuts characters like Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Woodstock and their friends taking you in a spacey trip to outer space to see all-new art installations in eight different zones.
Venue: centralwOrld / Date: Until May 31 (10:00-22:00) / B250-350 / Read more here.
Savor the authentic taste of Thai traditional snack platter khao chae.
Every summer is the only time for you to try khao chae or the traditional Thai snack platter that consists jasmine rice in jasmine-infused cold water and multiple savory condiments. Save the British afternoon tea for later, as this is more important for summer delight.
Read more here.
Go back to the cinemas for the now-showing Thai movies.
Beloved indie filmmaker Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit has released his new quirky film Fast & Feel Love to the cinema, and it's a good time to go back to the cinema because the place won't be too crowded with people during the vacation season.
You can also check out all Thai movies that are now showing in the cinemas here.
Stay home and watch these timeless classics of Thai cinema.
If you're one of those home stayers during the holidays, this is a perfect thing for you. Netflix Thailand has launched this new campaign wherein 19 Thai masterpieces throughout the past five decades are remastered for streaming. It's time to expand your Thai movie horizons, isn't it?
Read more here.
Go for a heart-warming family feast at this authentic Thai restaurant.
The Spice Market kitchen will be serving a set menu comprising regional cuisines like tom yam goong and khao chae for the family gathering on the first day of Thai New Year. What a way to celebrate the good old tradition.
Venue: Spice Market / Date: April 13 / B890++ per person / Read more here.
Laugh out loud with Bangkok's talented jokesters and comic performers.
Come and find laughter-filled joy with RAW Comedy at Live Lounge BKK. Every Wednesday night, jokesters and comic performers of Bangkok gather here for a weekly open mic show that sees a variety of creative performances.
Venue: Live Lounge BKK / Date: April 13 (20:00-22:00) / B200 per person / Read more here.
Bast in the wet kind of fun with Pangina Heals and more in this neon sexy party.
Thailand's internationally acclaimed drag performer Pangina Heals is set to host Neon GET WET Party at Pulse, Silom on April 16. The party will see the phenomenal performance by Pangina as well as more fun from neon beams and blow-out music.
Venue: Pulse Gallery (Silom) / Date: April 16 (18:00 onwards) / B500 per person / Read more here.
Chill on the riverside spot with tapas and DJ music.
It's not too low-key and, at the same time, not too wild for a Songkran celebration at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. On April 16, the hotel's Longtail Bar is slated to host Tapas Party by the River featuring a live DJ set to add more fun while you're savoring bite-sized appetisers and delectable drinks.
Venue: Anantara Riverside Bangkok / Date: April 16 (19:00 onwards) / B1,199++ per person / Read more here.
