The long holiday is nearing and many are likely preparing to make the most of their time off. However, Bangkok remains lively with a variety of activities to enjoy, including Night at the Museum. This year marks the 14th edition of the event, with a range of museums across the city participating in the festival that encourages visitors to explore these venues after dark.
One of the key locations is Museum Siam, which this year presents "What’s Thai: Wat Thai 2024." The exhibition explores Thai culture through interactive, Thai-style activities, covering topics such as history, temple celebrations and cultural expressions that reflect the identity and lifestyles of the Thai people and fascinate others around the world.
The highlights of this event, alongside the captivating light, colour and sound displays at night, encompass creative activities and mini-exhibitions designed to make learning enjoyable. These include:
Mini Exhibition: Wat Thai, Wow Thai
The sharp bang of a toy gun, the sweet aroma of roasted corn and the colourful neon lights of a temple fair are more than just memories for Thais—they are cultural treasures passed down by previous generations. They blend art, beliefs, flavours and fun to form a unique Thai identity. This exhibition invites you to explore the ‘mechanics of temple fairs’ that shape Thai culture.
Mural Painting Projection Mapping
Temples are spaces where profound meanings are handed down through generations and expressed in paintings that convey history and tradition. This will be mirrored with projections onto the front of the Museum Siam building.
Temple Fair Games
Temple fair games are not just about fun—they represent ‘playable memories’. Throwing and aiming to win small prizes offers simple joys that remind us of childhood. Museum Siam reinterprets these games as an opportunity to explore the "cultural treasures" embedded in everyday life.
Haunted House: Thai Ghosts Hidden in the Fair
Step into a haunted house made from familiar Thai materials but reimagined through art installations and mixed media. This exhibit not only stimulates the senses but also poses the question, "Why are Thai ghosts so terrifying?" Is it the smell, sound or shadows... or something deeper within our cultural roots?
Performances
A fusion of spoken drama and musical theatre by Professor Nopporn Perdpraew.
Music Performances
- December 20: Tee AF
- December 21: The Better Band
- December 22: MAEW SAIDLEB
Talks
December 20, 2024: Type Thai in Temples
December 21, 2024: Thai Ghosts: Exploring the Terror of Siam and the Global Reach of Thai Ghosts
December 22, 2024: Awakening the Spirit: How to Heal the Heart
Ghost Power: Sending Thai Ghosts to the World
Dive into the world of Thai ghosts, uncover their legends, share experiences, hear terrifying ghost stories and enjoy many other spine-tingling activities in the Knowledge Vault.
Dress in temple fair-themed attire and join the fun at Museum Siam from December 20-22, 2024. Located at MRT Sanam Chai, Exit 1. Admission is free. (Museum Siam will be open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM during this period, with exhibitions and activities available.) For more details, visit Museum Siam’s Facebook page.