The best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (Apr 24-27)

It’s a three-night plunge into the golden age of groove, where every note comes steeped in history and just the right amount of cigarette smoke. From the smoky clubs of Harlem to the sun-drenched porches of Texas, this series honours the sounds that shaped generations – swing, cool jazz, blistering Texas Blues and the timeless standards that refuse to fade. Chet Baker’s haunting coolness, Dave Brubeck’s tricky time signatures – they’re all here, reimagined for modern ears but never watered down. Expect unpolished brilliance, full-bodied improvisation and the kind of soul you can’t fake. It’s not nostalgia. It’s a reminder that jazz, in all its messy, glorious humanity, still speaks. Apr 24-26. B600-1,800 via here and B700 at the door. Siwilai Sound Club, 8pm onwards

Brace yourself for flying limbs, sweaty drama and a sound system that doesn’t quit. Santo Slam returns to El Santo for another round of absolute mayhem – where pro wrestling collides with pounding bass and unapologetic energy. Expect headlocks, hype and possibly someone being hurled across the room. Between bouts, dig into proper Mexican fare and try not to spill anything when the crowd erupts. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just there for the spectacle, there’s enough movement to rattle your fillings. Oh, and there’ll be prizes – because violence, apparently, loves a bit of flair. It’s loud, it’s unhinged and no one’s leaving quietly. Apr 24. Reserve via 062-821-5812. El Santo, 8.30pm onwards

Now in its fourth year, the team from The Commons and Sweets Records reunite for another two-night celebration of all things brassy, bold and beautifully offbeat. The line-up spans fresh faces making tentative debuts to jazz veterans who’ve spent years turning chaos into groove. There’ll be shimmering solos, rich harmonies and that collective euphoria only live music can conjure. From 7pm till midnight, you’re invited to sit back, drink in hand, while the sound swells around you and occasionally demands you nod like you know where the downbeat is. It all kicks off April 26 at The Commons Thonglor, followed by a second round on April 30 at The Commons Saladaeng. Apr 26 and Apr 30. Free. The Commons Saladaeng and The Commons Thonglor, 7pm-midnight

Patrick Gräser, aka Answer Code Request, has made a name for himself by pushing techno’s edges. Since his 2012 debut on Ostgut Ton, his sound – a collision of breakbeats, brooding pads and industrial grit – has kept Berghain floors restless. Born in Fürstenwalde during the fall of the Berlin Wall, Gräser came of age in a swirl of hip-hop, acid and early UK rave. Alongside childhood friends Marcel Dettmann and Marcel Fengler, he soaked up Berlin’s post-reunification chaos, channelling it into a sound that slips between jungle, IDM and Detroit influences. Whether behind the decks or in the studio, he’s not interested in nostalgia – just new ways to make the floor move. Apr 25. B750 via here. HORN, 9pm onwards

Over three nights, this gathering offers more than just a backdrop of live music. It’s a space for unwinding, where people slow down, sip something good and maybe end up deep in conversation with someone they’ve never met. With a line-up of performances, the mood is warm, unhurried and open – the kind of atmosphere that makes it easy to stay longer than planned. A selection of local names is behind the drinks, including Chitbeer, Suntree, Mardi, Call Me Papa and Group B, each pouring with purpose. Whether you’re here to listen closely or just let the rhythm blur the week, it’s a welcome pocket of calm. Apr 25-27. Free. Chapter Market, 5pm-midnight

Baees is back and turning the volume up in Bangkok. This time, London’s own Saint Ludo takes the decks with her no-nonsense mix of UK bass and blistering 140BPM selections. She’s joined by Sadia, who brings a global approach to club sounds – think percussive, unpredictable and entirely unbothered by borders. Completing the trio is Enable, ready to throw down a gritty set packed with off-kilter rhythms and grime-laced textures. It’s not about polish, it’s about pulse – the kind that grabs you by the chest and doesn’t let go until the lights come up. Expect a room where shoes get scuffed, tempos climb and the air feels charged. If you’re looking for a quiet night, you’ve taken a very wrong turn. Apr 25. B400 via here and B600 at the door. BEAM, 9pm onwards

Bangkok’s about to get a little bolder with an immersive club night drawing inspiration from Berlin’s kink scene. After selling out multiple editions in Hong Kong and Shanghai, the event brings together hedonistic techno, indie dance and electronic beats in a space where self-expression isn’t just encouraged – it’s the dress code. Think latex, leather, lace or just something dark and danceable. It’s intimate, unpredictable and delightfully off-script, with a lineup mixing international names and local favourites. But the music’s only half the story. This is a space where curiosity’s welcome, fantasy has free rein and connection comes in many forms. Whether you're there for the BPMs or the BDSM, it’s about feeling good in your skin – or whatever you’ve strapped over it. Apr 26. B350 (entry before 10pm), B400 via here and B500 at the door. Blaq Lyte Rover, 9pm onwards

This cyanotype workshop and mini exhibition offers a moment to reflect on the hidden toll of global trade, particularly in a region where over a quarter of the world’s cargo flows through vital maritime routes. Led by artist Ruwanthi Gajadeera, the session merges creative practice with environmental awareness, encouraging participants to engage with the ocean not just as a backdrop but as something under threat. Conducted in English, the experience combines elements of science, activism and visual storytelling. Attendees will use sunlight and a photosensitive dye to craft cyanotype posters, imprinting shapes of marine debris onto paper in an effort to visualise our impact on the sea. Apr 26. B500. Reserve via here. SEA Junction, 1.30pm-4.30pm

A community-focused gathering aimed at encouraging sustainable living without the smugness. Expect a mix of gently-used treasures, environmentally-conscious finds and a donation corner for passing on your once-loved belongings to local charities. It’s not just a rummage through eco bins either – there’s food, drinks and hands-on workshops if you're feeling inspired. Talks from thoughtful guests offer moments to pause between browsing, while a lineup from LOVEiS brings a fitting soundtrack to the day. Whether you're on the hunt for a new plant pot or just want to loiter near good music with a drink in hand, the atmosphere makes lingering easy. Bonus: it’s pet-friendly, so you and your dog can debate over who wore the harness better.  Apr 26. Free. 515 Victory Bangkok, 10.30-7pm

Three years after its debut in the quieter corners of Nakhon Nayok, UNAHARN is making a return – this time in Bangkok, and just for one night. The festival will spread across two rooms of BEAM, allowing for a bit more space to move, breathe and properly commit to a shoulder shuffle. The night’s soundtrack comes courtesy of an international DJ roster: Di Linh from Vietnam’s Savage crew, Belgium-meets-Thailand’s Gaspray, local favourite Jayja, Odd Thomas with his UK-tinged sets and Australia’s Wax’o Paradiso bringing their signature blend. Visuals will be handled by Human Spectrum, adding a little extra electricity to the atmosphere. Apr 26. B500-900 via here and B1,100 at the door. BEAM, 9pm onwards

Bangkok Trading Post is joining forces with OMG! Matchmaking for a series of summer speed dating evenings designed to take the awkward out of introductions. Things begin with light-hearted icebreakers to ease into the night before everyone’s free to chat, roam and see where conversations lead. Each ticket comes with a drink to help smooth the edges, and there are bar specials to keep the mood buoyant. Whether you’re hunting for love, or just hoping to meet someone whose houseplants are still alive, it’s a fresh way to do dating – no swiping required. Apr 26. B1,499 via here. Bangkok Trading Post Bistro & Bar, 7pm-10pm

A celebration of music and theatre comes to Bangkok as West End talents join forces for a concert led by Maestro Michael England. Vocalists Stevie Doc, Sara Poyzer, Tobias Turley and Haydn Oakley will take the stage to perform beloved ABBA hits – expect everything from Dancing Queen to Waterloo, with plenty of crowd-pleasers in between. The evening marks a special tribute for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s birthday on 2 April 2025, blending pop nostalgia with a touch of grandeur. Produced in collaboration with West End International Ltd, the event brings London flair to local audiences, promising high notes, heartfelt singalongs and just enough glitter to make you wish flared trousers were back in style. Apr 26-27. B600-3,000. Thailand Cultural Centre.

A speed dating night made exclusively for gay men. Think flirty icebreakers, charming chaos and zero small talk about crypto. Designed for those tired of the apps but still hopeful about love (or at least a decent flirt), the evening kicks off with games to get things moving before guests are free to mingle at their own pace. One drink is included with each ticket, plus bar deals to keep things spirited. Whether you're after romance, a new mate or just someone who also hates leg day, it’s a low-pressure, high-fun way to see who else is out there – no profile pics, just real people. Apr 27. B1,499 via here. Bangkok Trading Post Bistro & Bar, 7pm-10pm

Now in its fourth year, Sant Jordi returns with a lively blend of books, crafts and cultural flavour. This edition brings together a bustling market, hands-on workshops, thought-provoking discussions, live music and the bold tastes of Spanish and Latin American kitchens. It’s a celebration where literature meets community, and creativity spills into every corner – from stalls stacked with stories to conversations sparked over tapas. Whether you’re there for the food, the authors or just to get lost in a page-turner, the event offers a little something for anyone who enjoys ideas shared face-to-face rather than through screens. With its relaxed atmosphere and diverse line-up, it’s more than just a day out – it’s a reminder that stories still bring people together. Apr 27. Free. GalileOasis, 10am-7pm

This exhibition brings together two distinct artistic perspectives, exploring the balance between connection and contrast, personal recollection and shared nostalgia. This exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on their own experiences and how they influence perception. Korn Neeyabhan draws inspiration from vintage toys and dolls, crafting resin and vinyl figures that function as visual diaries. Each piece preserves fleeting moments, emotions and fragments of lived experience, inviting audiences to uncover layers of sentiment. In contrast, Jakrapong Siririn employs the concept of the Rorschach inkblot test, creating semi-abstract compositions that encourage imagination. His use of colour and form is intended to elicit emotion, allowing each person to interpret the work through their own lens. Until Apr 27. Free. 333Gallery, 11am-6pm

This exhibition showcases Tat Nattee's latest series of paintings, which reimagine albino children not as anomalies but as ‘Lightborn’ – beings of the future, where their distinctiveness becomes their strength. The inspiration for this collection comes from a deeply personal experience the artist had when encountering an albino child. This moment stirred a mix of emotions, both awe and surprise. The child, visibly radiant yet socially vulnerable, represented a striking blend of uniqueness and solitude. While rare creatures like white elephants, albino buffaloes, and variegated plants are often revered, albino humans are frequently seen as biological oddities rather than celebrated for their extraordinary qualities. Until Apr 30. Free. Fashion Gallery, 10am-9pm

Created by a fraudulent psychologist, delves into the complexities of capitalism. This thought-provoking display aims to critique and satirise the way society interacts with the capitalist system, while also highlighting the mental health issues it fosters. Presented through the lens of a fake bookstore, the exhibition showcases counterfeit books, offering a unique perspective on the consequences of living within such a system. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the impact of capitalism not only on societal structures but also on individual well-being, using irony and symbolism to challenge conventional views. By blending art and social commentary, it provides a compelling exploration of the emotional and psychological toll caused by modern economic systems. Arp 11-May 3. Free. Lou Hieb Seng, 11am-7pm

Kittisak Wanichbut’s photography exhibition explores the experience of boyhood within a society where patriarchal values hold deep influence. It portrays the shaping of identity, expectations of masculinity and the unspoken pressures passed from one generation to the next. As traditions persist, differences in beliefs and evolving ideals often create tensions between age groups, leading to inevitable conflict. Through carefully framed images, the work reveals an internal struggle – an interplay of conformity and defiance. Each photograph speaks to the subconscious, capturing emotions that shift between acceptance and resistance. The figures within these scenes may serve as echoes of childhood or projections of an adult self. Until April 26. Free. 6060 Arts Space, midday-8pm

In the theme ‘Be Your Own Island’, this exhibition features eight emerging artists, each offering their own distinctive viewpoint. The space is divided into individual rooms, with each artist’s work carefully displayed in its own dedicated area. The diverse range of art on show covers a variety of themes, from personal identity to social issues, allowing visitors to explore different perspectives. Each artist brings their own voice and vision, making for an engaging and thought-provoking experience. This exhibition provides a platform for new talent to showcase their creativity while offering a fresh and dynamic take on contemporary art. Until Jun 29. Free. Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, 10am-8pm

An exhibition by seven artists brings together traditional and modern Thai art in a celebration of the essence of cultural heritage. In Phra Nakhon, an area rich in history, timeless architecture and artistic treasures from the Ayutthayan to the Rattanakosin eras remain a testament to Thailand’s enduring identity. This unique showcase blends classical and contemporary styles, offering a fresh interpretation of the nation’s artistic legacy. Set on Phra Arthit Road, a historic and cultural hub, the event highlights the creativity and spirit of Thai culture. Visitors, both local and international, are invited to explore the connections between past and present while gaining a deeper appreciation of the artistic traditions that continue to shape the country. Apr 1-May 31. Free. 10 10 Art Space, 10am-7pm

Artist D-Jai Kosiyabong's solo exhibition explores the intersection of visual art, sound, language and memory, offering a multi-sensory experience. By blending painting with sound, Kosiyabong challenges traditional ideas of communication, creating a space where meaning emerges from the gaps between different forms of expression. Her innovative approach encourages viewers to reconsider how they understand and interpret the world around them. The exhibition invites a deeper reflection on how language can dissolve into pure sensation, moving beyond words and inviting the audience into a realm of raw experience. Apr 3-May 31. Free. SAC Gallery, 11am-6pm

The second solo exhibition by renowned illustrator and graphic designer nnene.iie, titled Encyclopedia, presents a visual documentary capturing everyday objects and surroundings in black and white. The exhibition reflects nnene.iie’s practice of sketching everything around her to better understand and define the world. Through intricate linework, striking contrasts and thoughtful textures, nnene.iie simplifies the world into its basic components, offering a new perspective on the familiar. By deconstructing reality into its simplest visual form, the exhibition encourages viewers to appreciate the beauty in overlooked details and embrace simplicity. This collection invites the audience to see the world through the artist's eyes and explore the meaning in everyday moments. Apr 5-28. Free. GalileOasis, 9am-8pm

Jung Narate’s exhibition proves that making art can be as legitimate a career as any desk job – only with more colour and fewer spreadsheets. He painted every single day for a year, creating 366 works, including one for a leap day, without missing a beat. Each piece became a visual diary, capturing his moods, moments, and daily encounters through strokes and shades on canvas. The result is a collection as varied as the weather – sometimes bright, sometimes stormy, but always authentic. Until Apr 30. Free. BNC Creatives RCA, 10am-6pm

Experience a contemporary acrobatics performance that fuses physical movement, poetry and human connections. The show follows the tale of a traveller and a couple who run this enchanting cafe. More than just a dining spot, it serves as a meeting point for diverse stories. Characters include a lively Brazilian tourist, a businessperson with a love for dance and two close-knit siblings, each forming surprising bonds. The performance highlights the beauty of new encounters, blending cultures and people through passion and remarkable acrobatic talent. Created and directed by Chloe Farah, an internationally recognised contemporary acrobatics artist, the production showcases her innovative approach to storytelling and movement. Until May 18. B1,190-1,490 via here. Alliance Française de Bangkok, 7pm onwards

When the female body is discussed, what image comes to mind? In its first collaboration, noble PLAY and 333 Gallery delve into the historical use of the female form as a symbol of ideas, exploring its reflection in contemporary visual culture, such as The Statue of Liberty, Venus of Willendorf and the Mona Lisa. This exhibition features works by four artists: Kaewtaran Julabon, Laks Mai Salee, Parichart Suphanpan and Marisa Srikanplan. Their art provides varied interpretations of the female body, from its role as nurturer and symbol of beauty to its representation as a historical record. The exhibition is further enriched by contributions from CB Film Club, in collaboration with Documentary Club, deepening the exploration of this subject through different media. Mar 8-Apr 27. Free. noble PLAY, 8am-5pm

This immersive, interactive digital art exhibition themed "Nature and Wildlife" highlights the beauty of ecosystems and biodiversity through advanced techniques like projection mapping, laser art and high-quality media. Spread across nine rooms at King Power Mahanakon, each space presents a distinctive experience reminiscent of a fantastical zoo. Notable features include the Kaleidoscope zone, enveloped in a variety of flowers that serve as food for butterflies; a laser projection room showcasing the majesty of predators; and an interactive underwater world. Youngsters can also enjoy a colouring activity and have their creations appear on the walls. A special surprise awaits with the appearance of Moo Deng, the famous pygmy hippopotamus from Khao Kheow Zoo, who awaits in different rooms to delight you. Until Jul 31. B350 via here and B1,000-1,200 including the Sky Walk via here. Fourth floor, King Power Mahanakon, 10am-9pm

Enhance your weekend with a delightful brunch at Bangkok Trading Post, where a selection of carefully crafted dishes, complemented by two hours of unlimited Tanqueray Gin, offers the ideal relaxed feast for friends and family. The brunch features a variety of sharing-style dishes, including starters such as Shucked Oysters, Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad. For mains, enjoy options like Steak and Fried Egg, Crispy-Crusted Salmon and Pork Schnitzel. To finish, indulge in an individual Apple Crumble Tartlet served with Yuzu Cheese Mousse, White Crumble and Vanilla Ice Cream. Until Jun 29. Reserve via 02-079-7000. Bangkok Trading Post, 137 Pillars Hotel, midday-3.30pm

Louis Vuitton has reimagined the Visionary Journeys exhibition at LV The Place Bangkok to celebrate the return of the Louis Vuitton x Murakami collection, featuring Zendaya. The exhibition begins with the Trunkscape entrance hall, designed by Japanese architect Shohei Shigematsu of OMA. This features 96 Courrier trunks encircled by animations showcasing Takashi Murakami's vibrant characters and motifs, including Monogram Multicolore, Superflat Panda, Onion Head and Cherry Blossom. The next area, the Collaboration room, now displays seven iconic pieces from previous collections between 2003 and 2009, including the Eye Love Monogram Speedy and Onion Head Monogram Briefcase. The exhibition concludes with a newly created room dedicated to Murakami's Superflat Monogram and Superflat First Love, both inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Until Apr 30. Free. Reserve via here. LV The Place Bangkok, 10am-8pm

Reap Factory offers a quick and affordable tree-course lunch starting at B450. Available daily, the Express Set Lunch Menu features six options that include Thai, Western and Japanese dishes, all made with fresh, responsibly-sourced ingredients. Thai choices include Set A, which comes with satay gai, pad krapao salmon or salmon kra-thium prik Thai, and chao guay for dessert. Set B features a spicy glass noodle salad, sweet and sour pork or golden-fried chicken, and pandan noodles in coconut milk. It’s a delicious and speedy way to enjoy a variety of flavours. Reap Factory Courtyard, daily

Biscotti welcomes chef Giuseppe Bonura, a native of Syracusa in Sicily, to the team. Imbued with a modern twist on traditional Sicilian flavours, chef Giuseppe’s new menu spotlights authentic ingredients and contemporary flare. Dishes include Panzanella Alla Siciliana, a refreshing tomato salad with almond cream, pine nuts and balsamic red onion; Arancini, Sicilian croquettes filled with beef ragu and caciocavallo cheese, served with a spicy tomato sauce; and Risotto Al Branzino, a wonderfully fragrant sea bass risotto. His stunning main course offerings feature stars such as pan-fried sea bass with spelt, mussels, clams and artichoke in a rich prawn bisque, and fantastic desserts like sweet mandarin cannolo, which combines orange ricotta, mandarin compote and hazelnut ice cream for a perfect finish. Reserve via 0-2126-8866. Biscotti, midday-10.30pm

This collaboration presents a fitness experience with The Ripple Club’s transformative aquatic workouts. Offering two class types – Ripple Signature and Ripple Box – The Ripple Club introduces aqua cycling and aqua boxing to Thailand, providing a fresh approach to aquatic fitness. The program delivers a low-impact, full-body workout suitable for all fitness levels, using water’s natural resistance to strengthen muscles while reducing stress on the joints. Combining high-intensity cardio with targeted strength training, both classes maximise efficiency in less time. Participants enjoy benefits such as stress relief through rhythmic movements, enhanced muscle recovery, and decreased soreness, creating the perfect balance between fitness and rejuvenation. Every Sat and Sun. Check the program here. W Bangkok, 8.30am-9.20am and 9.30am-10.20am

The debut performance of The Little Prince in Thailand blends immersive digital interactive experiences with captivating installation art, inviting audiences to explore this much-loved story. The journey begins with the Story Book Theatre offering an engaging introduction to the narrative. Covering more than 2,000 square metres, the event promises an inspiring and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Also, you can visit "The Store," where you will find an exclusive selection of merchandise inspired by The Little Prince. Each item has been thoughtfully designed and chosen to reflect the charm and essence of the story, providing a unique keepsake for fans to take home. Jan 24 - May 11. B350-1,100 via here. Icon Siam, 10am-8pm

This exhibition brings a fresh approach to addressing the mental health challenges faced by many in Thailand. It creates a therapeutic space that blends digital art with engaging sensory elements such as light, colour, sound and touch. The focus is on the connection between the body and mind–acknowledging the importance of physical sensations in managing emotions. The exhibition focuses on the psychological concept of 'self-compassion', encouraging the audience to reflect on their well-being and mental state. Until Jul 12, 2025.  B200 via here. 2nd floor, MMAD at MunMun Srinakarin, 11am-8pm