Bounce through Bangkok’s nine venues where Moo Deng takes centre stage with installations and dazzling light displays.
As the year comes to an end, it seems that the title of 2024’s most famous rising star undoubtedly belongs to Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo who has gripped attention the world over. Her irresistibly bouncy charm even won over the Tourism Authority of Thailand who saw how special she is. They teamed up with various private organisations to spotlight this beloved new celebrity across nine venues at the Bangkok Illumination Festival 2024.
Running until January 5, 2025, the festival transforms Bangkok with dazzling light displays and interactive installations themed ‘Moo Deng Takes Over Bangkok.’ Beyond the visual spectacle, it aims to elevate Bangkok’s profile as a global festival hub while celebrating Thai culture and supporting the local economy.
Although the nine venues are spread throughout Bangkok, they are easily accessible via public transport, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT and public buses. Here is the complete Time Out guide for getting around Bangkok.
Divided into three routes, the festival offers visitors an easy way to explore Moo Deng’s illuminated journey. Not sure where to begin? Here’s your guide to the three key routes showcasing this celebrity hippo.
Reached from BTS National Stadium and Siam stations, the route features three venues. At Nimibutr Stadium, Moo Deng becomes ‘DJ Deng’, a glowing installation that’ll have you dancing in no time. On the One Siam Skywalk, ‘Madame Deng’ makes her grand appearance as inflatable art welcoming shoppers to this bustling district. Get snapping along the stretch from Siam Center to Central World, where vibrant installations turn the area into an Instagram hotspot.
Easily accessible from MRT Hua Lamphong and Wat Mangkon stations, this route features four venues. Be dazzled by the ‘Dengzilla’ projection mapping and light installation that takes over Hua Lamphong Station or enjoy the charming Phadung Krung Kasem Canal, lit with colourful displays.
Stroll along the Thai-Chinese Friendship Road, where ‘Deng’s footprints’ light patterns guide you along a scenic path. Or visit Odeon Circle showcasing an art installation, ‘Muay Deng’ in which the baby hippo dons a Chinese traditional dress to celebrate the charm of the Thai-Chinese culture in the area.
Best reached via BTS Asok or MRT Sukhumvit stations, the Asoke BTS Skywalk lights up with projection mapping and displays, perfect for the New Year vibe. At Benjasiri Park, ‘Deng in the Park’ creates a picnic-like atmosphere, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the glowing lights.
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