Thai craft beers and spirits are making waves on the global drinks scene, spotlighting potent flavours that reflect the country's rich agricultural heritage and creativity. These drinks are a celebration of Thai craftsmanship, from the boldness of beers brewed with eclectic local ingredients to the distinctive flavours of spirits such as lao kao, the country’s famous rice whisky.
It's the blend of traditional techniques with modern innovation that is grabbing attention, creating drinks that are both familiar and new. With an ever-growing selection of breweries and distilleries, there's no better time to dive into the world of Thai craft drinks and nowhere better to take the plunge than the Merai Thailand festival.
From November 27 to December 3, Thairath, a leading national media company – together with numerous government and private sector partners – is organising Thailand's national celebration of community spirits and craft beer. As well as showcasing the talents of local producers and craft brewers, the event aims to boost grassroots economies and distribute income to small communities across the country.
Much more than just a networking event for over 50 craft producers, Merai Thailand brings together grassroots producers and premium markets. The exclusive Chef’s Table Paired with Merai, in which Michelin-starred chefs from all over Thailand curate perfect culinary pairings with local craft beverages, is a fine example.
You can explore indigenous craft beers and spirits (lao kao) in new and exciting ways in six dedicated zones designed to introduce the richness of Thailand’s tippling culture.
Merai Shops
Uncover a wide array of community-produced spirits and craft beers from across the nation, featuring more than 50 craft beers and local spirits to tempt your taste buds. Don’t miss the Merai Thai Mixo zone where 11 talented mixology teams serve up Instagram-worthy cocktails and mocktails made with local spirits that complement a range of delicious eats provided by food vendors.
Merai Talks
Listen in as experts from the public and private sectors discuss the future of Thailand’s craft beverage industry. From overcoming challenges to building a sustainable business ecosystem, these discussions will explore how to elevate local craft industries and promote a responsible drinking culture.
Merai Workshops
From blending your own gin with Thai herbs to mastering the art of brewing brilliant beer, get hands-on with seven exclusive masterclasses for all skill levels. Learn from Thailand’s finest, including Udomkati, Khun Jar (former KINOBI gin distiller and founder of Kaori Craftroom), Onson and the Craft Beer Trade Association (Thailand).
Merai Thailand Competition
Be part of history as Thai spirits take centre stage in thrilling competitions judged by industry experts. The finest brewers from across the nation will compete to set new standards in the Thai Craft Beer and Thai White Spirits categories.
Merai Chef’s Table
Take a culinary odyssey with Thailand's top chefs, including Michelin Guide and Asia's 50 Best winners from all four regions. Chef Kong (Locus Native Food Lab) serves up northern flavours, Chef Pu of Baan Suan Lung Khai (Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024) present southern delights, Chef Jib and Chef Paisan (Michelin Bib Gourmand 2023 and 2024) bring Isaan inspirations and Chef Prin of Samrub Thai showcases the culinary arts of the central region. Reserve your seat here
Merai Music
Get into the groove with an eclectic mix of performances from The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, DJ Freudonidas, Yellow Fang, H3F, Ga-pi (Gap T-Bone), DJ Tape Jam, DJ Benjamin Varney, DJ Pichy and DJ Kanehbos.
Map for the event
The festival is free entry, running daily from 10am to midnight at Em Glass, Em Yard, G Floor, Emsphere.
Getting there is easy – on-site parking is available for those driving, while BTS users can head for Phrom Phong BTS station exit 6 and take the skywalk to Emsphere. If you're travelling by MRT, get off at Sukhumvit station and go to exit 3. Then take the skywalk for approximately 900 metres. For more details, visit www.meraithailand.com.