The capital's biggest celebration of creativity is back! Bangkok Design Week returns for its eighth edition from February 8-23 and it’s bigger and better than ever.
Comprising more than 350 programmes across seven major districts, this year’s Bangkok Design Week shines a light on ‘Design Up+Rising’, which is inspired by the concept of a BANI World, a reflection of the modern era that is brittle, anxious, non-linear and incomprehensible. It’s a world that’s left many feeling uncertain and fragile, especially creative minds who often face burnout and struggle to think beyond the immediate challenges of life.
Organised by the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), which is committed to fostering creativity as a key driver of the economy, the festival aims to spark transformation. With past events like Molam Crossover and Chiang Mai Design Week, CEA sees 2025 as a year to turn challenges into opportunities, empowering creatives to lead the way toward a brighter future.
And it seems that the organisers have realised that seven days just isn’t enough to experience everything. For the first time, the festival will be extended beyond a week and divided into two main phases to ensure no one misses out.
Phase 1 will take place on February 8-16 at Charoenkrung, Talat Noi, Yaowarat, Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat and nearby areas. Phase 2 will cover Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu, Khao San and surrounding areas from February 15-23. In addition, Hua Lamphong and Bang Pho will be part of the action on the weekends of February 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23.
Highlights include Banglamphu’s Food Good Taste – in which you can enjoy secret recipes from the area in dishes packed with unique flavours and rich local history – and Face of Khao San, a powerful photography exhibition capturing the lives, moments and stories of the people who bring this buzzing neighbourhood to life.
Recently, Bangkok has seen a rise in festivals that celebrate creative minds, such as the Bangkok Experimental Film Festival, Bangkok Illumination Festival and Bangkok Art Biennale. These festivals don’t just spotlight local talent, they’re driving the creative economy forward.