The best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (Apr 3-6)

The 53rd National Book Fair and 23rd Bangkok International Book Fair return to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Under the theme Read Big, the event features over a million books across seven zones, with 1,200 booths representing 400 publishers. Highlights include the PUBAT Creative Zone’s themed exhibitions, the Book Power Exhibition showcasing works endorsed by Thai cultural leaders, and whimsical displays like a giant desk with oversized stationery. Visitors can also join storytelling games and reading challenges, making this much more than a book-shopping experience. Until Apr 7. Free. Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, 10am-9pm

Get ready to kick off April in style and prepare for Songkran celebrations. This bustling market, featuring 200 vendors, is the perfect place to refresh your wardrobe, stock up on essentials, or simply indulge in a bit of retail therapy. With such a variety of stalls, it’s a lively destination for shoppers of all tastes. From fashionable pieces to quirky treasures, there’s no shortage of options to explore. So, gear up for the summer fun, embrace the festive vibe, and ensure you’re all set for the season ahead. April 3-6. Free. Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, 4pm-11.30pm

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

It’s a celebration of creativity, culture and relaxation all in one place, offering a space for a creative community to come together, chill and find inspiration. Visitors can unwind and rejuvenate through the appreciation of diverse artworks. The event showcases over 60 art and craft vendors, offering a variety of handmade Thai products, unique visual designs, and quality lifestyle goods. There are also creative activities to engage in, along with delicious food and live music to enhance the experience. Apr 4-6. Free. Slowcombo, 10am-8pm

General Levy returns to Bangkok for a night of great energy, rapid-fire bars and heavyweight bass. A true jungle icon, he has been igniting dancefloors for over three decades with his high-speed lyrical flow and commanding stage presence. From the global anthem Incredible to countless classics, his influence runs deep in the scene. This is a rare opportunity to experience the original badman live. Supporting him on the night are DJ Orawan, BradRoc, Sean Fortune, Sister Zine and Nahyan. Apr 4. B700 via here and B900 at the door. Blaq Lyte Rover, 9pm onwards

Roman Flügel has been a driving force in electronic music since the ‘90s, shaping house and techno as co-founder of Playhouse and Klang Elektronik. His work on labels like DIAL and remixes for Daniel Avery and Sven Väth have cemented his legacy, while his DJ sets are deep, fluid journeys across the dancefloor. Joining him is Bangkok’s DJ Zombie, blending Detroit-inspired grooves with percussive beats, raw bass and dubby textures, alongside Saoteknik, whose high-energy, hypnotic performances are built to keep crowds moving. Apr 4. B600 via here and B800 at the door. BEAM, 9pm onwards

Gather friends, family and loved ones for a rooftop cinema experience in central Bangkok. Enjoy the cool breeze and panoramic city views while watching six classic films over three days. The event features a large screen with high-definition visuals and wireless headphones offering superior sound, ensuring you and your companions can fully immerse yourselves in the flicks. The lineup includes 500 Days of Summer, Catch Me If You Can, School of Rock, The Fault in Our Stars, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Bohemian Rhapsody. Apr 4-6. B500 via here. Tenth floor, Siamscape, 6.30pm and 9.20pm

Chilli enthusiasts and spice lovers won’t want to miss this fiery festival, which features a much-anticipated chilli-eating competition. Contestants will face a series of increasingly spicy chillies, culminating in a heat level of 2,200,000 on the Scoville scale. The winner will receive a B10,000 cash prize, while the second and third runners-up will enjoy a one-night stay with breakfast and dining credit at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok. Registration is required via Google Form. In addition to the contest, guests can sample a range of spicy dishes from top Bangkok restaurants, including Chef Ton’s Zaab Niran and 80/20’s Burmese curry by Chef Thaf. The event also offers craft beers, cocktails, special chilli sauces and even chilli-inspired tattoos from California Ink Bangkok. Apr 5. B200-800 via here and B300 at the door. Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, 2pm-9pm

Berlin’s Meg10 arrives in Bangkok, bringing the energy behind Germany’s femme-focused club movement Hoe_mies. Known for genre-blurring sets that mix hip-hop, dancehall, electro and bass-heavy sounds, she crafts polyrhythmic selections packed with razor-sharp edits and unstoppable momentum. From Boiler Room to Melt Festival, her performances are high-impact and impossible to stand still to. Joining her is Lomoroom, setting the mood with groovy, bass-driven selections. Sriracha Czaddy delivers playful, high-energy blends full of attitude, while Genji, a Suburb Sound selector, weaves hip-hop, RnB, UKG and baile funk into seamless club-focused sets. Apr 5. B500-45,000 via here and B700 at the door. BEAM, 9pm onwards

This art exhibition invites visitors to express their emotions through words, whether it’s a secret, a love story or anything they wish to share. Participants can write postcards, each featuring new works from 10 artists, and take part in activities that enhance the main exhibition. The theme, ‘what has never been said’, is brought to life through postcard-sized paintings. These artworks serve as a way for people to communicate their feelings beyond words. Additionally, visitors can take home a postcard from someone else as a personal keepsake. Apr 1-Jun 3. Free. MunMun Art Destination, 10.30am-7pm 

Zombies in Miami, the duo formed by Cani & Jenouise, bring their signature fusion of house, disco and Italo-inspired beats. Known for releases on labels like Running Back, Correspondent and Internasjonal, their music has electrified top venues, from Berghain to Panorama Bar, as well as festivals including Sonar and Burning Man. With their label Creatures of the Night, they craft raw, hardware-driven performances blending acid, electro and Balearic influences into deep, hypnotic machine funk. Joining them is Storken, Sweden’s rising disco talent, whose nostalgic yet forward-thinking sound has gained support from Todd Terje and Pete Tong. Bangkok’s MJMA completes the lineup, delivering intense sets driven by seductive synths, moody basslines and raw, distorted energy, creating a multidimensional experience on the dancefloor. Apr 5. B500 via here and B700 at the door. BEAMCUBE, 9pm onwards

Outlandish and Boiled Wonderland Records unite for a night of sonic exploration ahead of the much-anticipated Outlandish Festival later this year. An eclectic lineup of boundary-pushing artists from across South East Asia will take over the stage, showcasing progressive house sound from the electronic spectrum. Expect an immersive experience featuring live sets and forward-thinking performances that push musical limits in the heart of Bangkok, blending experimental beats, hypnotic rhythms and dynamic energy into an unforgettable journey through innovative soundscapes. Apr 5. B300 via here and B800 at the door. Blaq Lyte Rover, 9pm onwards

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

Two experienced mime artists are set to deliver a new performance filled with humour and fun. Yano, a seasoned Japanese performer, brings years of experience in solo, group, and double acts, always impressing with his versatility. He teams up with Tong Gluea, a lively entertainer renowned for his ability to make audiences laugh. This event goes beyond the performance itself, also featuring an exhibition of Yano's writings about Thailand and a photo display chronicling Tong Gluea's artistic path. Apr 6. B850 via here. Livecube, 3pm and 6pm

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

It’s a night packed with proper UK sounds. If you like your beats fast and your basslines filthy, this one’s for you. Expect high energy from start to finish, with a line-up bringing serious heat to the decks. EM-J is set to deliver some heavy hitters, Accidental District will keep things unpredictable and WOT? promises a set that’ll have you questioning reality. And then there’s Madman – because what’s a night like this without a bit of chaos? Whether you're skanking up front or just nodding along at the back, it’s all about deep cuts, big drops and non-stop movement. Mar 27. Free. Blaq Lyte Rover, 9pm onwards

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

Chanathip Chanwipop's first solo exhibition in Thailand draws inspiration from René Descartes' famous quote Cogito, ergo sum or I Think, Therefore I Am, offering a fresh interpretation that highlights remembrance as a vital act in understanding existence. The artworks blend narratives of past events and emotions, evoking a sense of intimacy and belonging. The setting invites reflection on how history and memory shape personal identity, offering a profound exploration of connections between the self and the past. Through this unique approach, the exhibition creates a dialogue between art, space and the essence of being. Until 12 Apr. Free. Baan Thewes, 11am-5pm

Knakorn Kachacheewa’s solo exhibition explores introspection through indigo and blue, reflecting on silence and solitude. His paintings and sculptures convey the contrasting emotions of joy, regret and sadness, while his human figures trapped in white boxes juxtapose confinement with freedom, highlighting the weight of isolation and passing time. Rather than detachment, Kachacheewa’s work invites deeper self-awareness. The longer you engage, the more peace you find. Through natural motifs, his art offers a path to contemplation, where silence becomes unexpectedly calming. Until Apr 5. Free. La Lanta Fine Art, 10am-7pm

The canyouhearcloud’s solo exhibition showcases the idea that we all have limited spaces for our memories. As these spaces fill up, we’re faced with the challenge of deciding which memories to keep and which to let go. Some are easy to erase, but others – those moments we cherish most – become hard to part with, even though they may never happen again. The seven pieces in this exhibition represent shared memory spaces, each one a reminder of the beauty and meaning we find in the past. These works offer a fresh perspective on memory, inviting us to explore and perhaps discover connections with others. It’s like cleaning out your old junk drawer – only you might find a few treasures in the process. Until Apr 7. Free. 7 Frames, Lido Connect, 10am-10pm

Thepsakdi’s work is defined by the dynamic relationship between form and figure. His portrayal of the female body is idealised rather than hyper-realistic, drawing inspiration from traditional Thai art. However, his use of bold colours, flowing lines and simplified shapes brings a modern touch to his paintings, infusing them with energy and originality. The nudes in this exhibition explore the limitless potential of artistic expression. Through his unique approach, Thepsakdi transforms imagery that could be seen as provocative into a refined and compelling art form. His pieces reflect a deep commitment to artistic exploration and a continuous pursuit of creative innovation, pushing boundaries while maintaining a strong connection to his cultural heritage. Until 13 Apr. Free. Matdot Gallery, 10am-6pm

Explore a world of chaos, where the remnants of countless bodies remain – symbols of humanity’s ongoing battle for survival. Through organic forms – representing humans, animals, and plants – artist Kittisak captures the cycle of existence, from birth and growth to inevitable decay. The delicate, easily fractured ceramic sculptures act as metaphors for the uncertainty of life. Colours, emerging unpredictably from the flames, reflect the inner fires of human desire. The result is an installation that is both captivating and deeply unsettling, forcing viewers to confront the fragility of existence and the harsh realities of our constant struggle. Until 13 Apr. Free. Matdot Gallery, 10am-6pm

Presented by four talented artists – Rei Hayase, Yumi Kamiya, Miki Tatebe and Murano Sei – this exhibition delves into Japan’s beautiful flowers, each of which holds deep symbolic meaning. From the sakura blossoms representing the fleeting nature of life to the camellia embodying peace and sincerity, the artists capture the delicate beauty of these blooms in their own unique styles. The show invites viewers to explore nature’s subtleties and the hidden emotions within each flower. It’s a reflection of the bond between nature, time and the human spirit. While a flower’s bloom may be brief, its impact lingers long after. After all, even a petal that falls can leave a memory. Mar 15-Apr 5. Free. MIDNICE Gallery, 10.30am-7pm 

The fourth solo exhibition by Karms delves into the fragments and remnants discovered through exploring our surroundings. It explores spaces with no clear meaning, the gaps between what we must accept and what we yearn for. One focal point is the evolving concept of ‘freedom.’ Freedom is a complex idea, one that prompts reflection on its true nature and its connection to identity. Over time, we come to understand that it’s not just about control over our environment, but also the influence the world has on us. When considering ownership and control, we are left wondering: Is this sense of power genuine, or is our existence merely shaped by external forces? This exhibition doesn’t offer answers, instead evoking a quiet, unsettling scream, questioning the forces at play between art and reality. Until Apr 20. Free. Trendy Gallery, second floor, River City Bangkok, 10am-7pm

Held monthly, this exclusive brunch offers handcrafted gourmet tapas and seafood, including Alaskan King Crab, Maine lobster, tiger prawns and freshly shucked oysters. You can also indulge in delicacies like Jamon Ibreico, lobster sashimi and A5 Kobe beef sashimi. Each dish is perfectly paired with Champagne Pommery Brut Royal N.V., complemented by a selection of fine wines and soft drinks to enhance the dining experience. The three-hour brunch starts at B4,555 per person, providing an opportunity to relax and enjoy a moment of indulgence. Until Apr 6. Reserved via 02-100-6255. Uno Mas, midday-2.30pm

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

In collaboration with POP MART’s Inner Flow Gallery, Chinese artist Meiying presents her first solo exhibition in Bangkok. The exhibition centres around the character "Hyde," a quiet child who hides in clothing and silently watches the world. Hyde serves as a reflection of Meiying’s emotions, capturing moments of imagination, warmth and the small secrets of life. Through her art, the painter creates new memories on canvas, inviting viewers to connect with her personal world. Alongside the artwork, exclusive merchandise designed by Meiying will be available for purchase. Visitors will also have the rare chance to meet the artist in person on February 7-8, offering a unique opportunity to engage with her creative vision. Feb 7 - Apr 6. Free. Maison JE, 11am-7pm

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