Kaweewat Siwanartwong

  April has arrived, marking the official start of summer. With the city’s parks and streets taking on new life, the cultural scene is also awakening. Museums and galleries across the city are gearing up for exciting exhibition openings, offering fresh and inspiring experiences for art lovers. As the temperatures rise, why not seek refuge in a cool gallery or museum? Bangkok boasts a wealth of world-class art and photography exhibitions, all available to explore without spending a satang. From contemporary photography to traditional artwork, there’s a variety of free exhibitions on offer throughout the city this month. Set aside some time to explore these exhibitions, and while you're at it, discover everything else Bangkok has to offer this weekend.Below, you’ll find all of the free art and photography exhibitions happening in the city right now, but that’s not everything: don’t miss out on the things to do on the weekend right here. Enjoy. RECOMMENDED:  The best things to do in Bangkok The best things to do this weekend  Bangkok’s best spots to live the art life Top spots to see street art

The long-awaited holiday, a beloved Thai tradition, has returned once more. While many joyfully embrace the water-splashing festivities of Songkran, the Thai New Year, others may choose to stay dry and sit out the soaking celebrations for their own reasons. If you're not exactly interested about being drenched during this chaotic water fight of a festival and are wondering how to make the most of the holiday, fear not. We've put together a list of activities designed for those who'd rather not become walking puddles, along with some personal recommendations from our team of writers (who clearly love staying dry). Hopefully, this will give you a few ideas on how to enjoy the Thai New Year without needing to dry off every five minutes. Here’s wishing you a fantastic and dry holiday ahead!

After Bangkok’s recent earthquake had us all questioning our life choices, the city is finally steadying itself – just in time for a cultural shake-up of a different kind. A new season means fresh programming at beloved art venues, theatre revivals and enough cracking exhibitions to keep even the most jaded culture vultures happy. And let’s not forget the music festivals springing up across town. Thailand’s biggest book fair is back, and it’s bringing 1,200 booths and 400 publishers to satisfy your inner bookworm. If you’re after something a little more unique for your space, head over to Tay Flea Market or Picnic Picjai Art Market, where you’ll find everything from quirky antiques to ‘I’ll never use this but it’s too cool to leave behind’ items. As if that wasn’t enough, some of the city’s top restaurants and bars are serving up discounted tickets and offers, meaning you can eat, drink and shop without breaking the bank. So, what are you waiting for? Get your shoes on. Get ahead of the game and start planning your month with our list of top things to do this April.

At last, summer has arrived, and with it comes the much-awaited Songkran festival. Bangkokians are ready to make a celebratory splash and the long holiday means it's time to explore the city's stunning parks, museums, vibrant galleries and of course, its night life scene. From art exhibitions and the hottest festivals to rooftop outdoor screenings, whether you’re immersing yourself in culture, out for cool sips with friends, or dancing to live music, April is crammed with big ticket celebrations. Here’s our round-up of some of the best happenings in town during the month. 

The Thai capital’s nightlife scene is thriving, with throngs of party-goers flocking to clubs every weekend to experience talented DJs, lively venues and a sea of fashion-forward styles. But look closer and you'll find even more to like, such as underground warehouse spaces hosting top international DJs. These hidden gems cater to those seeking an electrifying evening away from the mainstream. Whether it's the best-established clubs or the latest spots for the demimonde, Bangkok offers a clubbing scene that's constantly evolving.  RECOMMENDED: Bangkok's best new bars in 2024

Get ready, Lambily! The queen of high notes and iconic hair flips, Mariah Carey, is heading back to the Big Mango! Mark your calendars for October 11, when her spectacular show, The Celebration of Mimi, takes over Impact Challenger Hall, Muang Thong Thani. But the magic doesn’t stop there – Mariah is bringing her powerhouse vocals across Asia, with stops in Shanghai, Manila, Kobe and Yokohama.  This is your chance to experience Mariah’s vocal acrobatics and diva energy! The tour celebrates 20 years since The Emancipation of Mimi blessed our ears in 2005. For Thai fans, it’s been a long seven years since her last performance here in 2018. Details about Bangkok tickets, pricing, and sale dates are still under wraps, but updates are coming soon. In the meantime, keep stalking Mariah’s Instagram. Here’s the Asia tour poster Photograph: mariahcarey

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

Denmark’s beloved indie-prog-dream-pop pioneers Mew are set to call it a day later this year, marking exactly three decades since they first came together. To bid us farewell, they’ve announced their final gig in Bangkok this November.  This show will be one of the last chances for fans to experience Mew’s performances before they officially bow out. Both frontman Jonas Bjerre and the band have shared statements If you’re going to break hearts, you might as well do it properly. The band began their journey in 1995, dropping their debut, A Triumph for Man, two years later. It was their third album, Frengers (2003), that put them on the global map – though most of its tracks were actually polished-up versions of earlier work. By 2005, And the Glass Handed Kites had firmly secured their status, proving they weren’t just a fleeting dream-pop fever dream. Fast forward to 2017, and Visuals, their seventh and final album, brought their discography to a close.  Their live performances are often described as some of the most immersive, balancing grand theatrics with a career spanning over 30 years and seven studio albums The band has built a devoted global following and if longevity is anything to go by, Mew’s place in music history is well secured. Catching the trio live this November? Here’s everything you need to know, from dates to presale tickets. When will Mew perform in Bangkok?  Mew will be gracing the stage in Bangkok on November 14 at the Moonstar Convention Hall, starting a

Just last week, Guns N’ Roses revealed their return to Thailand for a one-night-only show on May 13 at the Thunder Dome Stadium in Bangkok, as part of their 2025 world tour. With Bangkok being a key stop, this gig is a reminder that they’re still one of the greatest rock bands ever, bringing their legendary high-energy performance back to the fans.  They’re one of the most-streamed rock bands globally, racking up an impressive 24 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with their 1991 ballad November Rain now in the one billion plays. It’s their fourth track to reach that mark, and the first outside their debut Appetite for Destruction. Three tracks from that album – Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome To The Jungle and Paradise City – have already hit the same milestone.  After the reunion of the century, they headlined Coachella and shifted over five million tickets on the Not In This Lifetime… Tour. But Guns N’ Roses don’t slow down – there’s more touring lined up for 2025 and some surprises in store. The ‘Nightrain’ is still chugging along at full speed. Photograph: Guns N' Roses From punk to rap and rock’n’roll, it’s shaping up to be an epic night of genre-defining support acts. Public Enemy, the legendary American hip-hop group, will electrify the crowd with their powerful beats and politically charged lyrics. Joining them are Rival Sons, the high-energy rock band from Long Beach, California, renowned for their raw sound and captivating live performances. And that’s not all – 

There is such a variety of things to do across Thailand’s 76 provinces it can be a daunting task knowing where to start. The promise of peaceful villages, the excitement of sports, top-notch nightlife, island-hopping on a whim and great hospitality is all within reach. The country’s natural beauty and rich culture – from myriad festivals and markets, ancient Khmer-influenced ruins and contemporary art is matched by the diversity and hospitality of Thailand’s official 70 ethnic groups. Why wouldn’t you want to explore the entire kingdom?    Time Out recently ranked Bangkok as the second-best city in the world for 2025 and placed Chiang Mai at 28, making Thailand the only country in southeast Asia to have two cities in the top 50. But there’s a lot more than great cities. Here is Time Out Thailand’s guide to the best things to Do in Thailand.

Every year, St. Patrick’s Day takes the world by storm, officially landing on March 17 – but let’s be honest, the celebrations usually last all weekend. Wondering how to join the fun in Bangkok? You’re in luck! Read on for a tropical crawl between the capital’s Irish pubs that keep the spirit alive. Don some green, grab a Guinness and see where you end up!

If you were lucky enough to catch Yussef Dayes at Maho Rasop 2022, you’ll already have a taste of what’s in store – deep grooves, percussive storytelling and a spontaneous vibe that makes each performance a new experience. A drummer, producer and sonic mastermind from South London, Yussef has earned a reputation for improvisational performances that blend jazz, broken beat and raw creativity. On June 6, he’ll bring The Yussef Dayes Experience to Lido Connect 2 in Bangkok for the first time as a solo headliner, presented by HAVE YOU HEARD?  Some artists excel in the studio, crafting their sound in a controlled setting. Others, like Yussef Dayes, thrive on stage, where their music evolves in real time. His debut album, Black Classical Music, is a combination of vast soundscapes and personal moments, packed with intricate rhythms and emotional layers. The album features collaborations with Masego, Tom Misch and others, earning Dayes an Ivor Novello Award for Best Album and two BRIT Award nominations. If his music is your jam, just wait until you see him now. As with any ticket scramble, it's a classic case of ‘first come, first served’, so we’re here to make sure you're fully prepared before you dive into the chaos. Have a read, keep in mind the essentials and may the odds be ever in your favour.   When is Yussef Dayes performing in Bangkok? Yussef Dayes will be gracing the stage in Bangkok for one night only, at Lido Connect 2, from 7pm onwards.  When will Yussef Dayes’s ticke

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

Kim Lim, a Filipino artist, presents a tranquil world through her paintings, shaping landscapes from interwoven branches, wild grasses and vivid tones. Her work carries a quiet strength, blending delicacy with resilience. The presence of teeth in her compositions serves as a striking metaphor for maintaining gentleness despite visible fractures. Each piece reflects an underlying tension between fragility and endurance, inviting contemplation on how beauty can persist amid disruption. The contrast between soft natural elements and symbols of resistance highlights an unspoken struggle, where tenderness does not equate to weakness. Lim’s approach transforms familiar imagery into thought-provoking scenes, capturing a sense of stillness that is both comforting and unsettling. Her canvases suggest that even in a fractured space, a quiet but unyielding force remains. Until April 20. Free. Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok, 11am-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

Ichikawa Danjuro XIII presents his first full-scale kabuki performance abroad, showcasing a 400-year-old Japanese tradition. The production blends powerful storytelling, stylised movement and intricate stagecraft, offering a glimpse into the world of kabuki. More than just theatre, kabuki is an art of precision. Lavish silk costumes and bold Kumadori makeup define characters, while every motion, from a simple glance to a measured step, conveys deep emotion. This controlled expression brings characters to life, reflecting the dramatic intensity that has sustained kabuki for centuries. The performance will take place on April 25 2025, with showtimes from 3pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm. On April 26, the show will run from midday to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm. April 25-26. B2,500-5,500 via here. Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre.

The world is facing a crisis, yet many see it as a distant issue. If this mindset continues, the situation will only worsen. In the near future, more people must take notice of the warnings embedded in artistic expression. Messages from the Future speaks from a planet in decline, plagued by environmental degradation, toxic air, conflicts and waves of displacement. These signals urge society to wake up and act before irreversible damage occurs. Without awareness and collective effort, the earth’s future may be far from hopeful. The artist, Teerawat Ngamchuachit communicates this stark reality through his paintings. Though visually unembellished, they carry a depth that cannot be overlooked, challenging viewers to reflect on what lies ahead if change does not come. Until May 4. Free. ARDEL Gallery of Modern Art, 10am-6pm

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

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

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

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

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

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 

Experience a captivating shadow puppet performance about a creature on a remote island who discovers how an unexpected encounter can turn solitude into something beautiful. Following the show, participate in a workshop where you can create your own puppet and take it home as a keepsake. This event is part of the 'Beauty in the Dark' programme in collaboration with Homemade Puppet. It’s an opportunity to explore the art of puppetry while reflecting on themes of connection and transformation. Apr 26. B30-550 via here. PoA White Box, Yellow Lane, 2pm-3.30pm  

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a circus troupe took over Bangkok, Cafe OUI-WE! might just have the answer. This high-flying spectacle lands at the Alliance Francaise Auditorium ‘til May 18, blending jaw-dropping acrobatics with a story about fate, food and fleeting connections. Expect no safety nets – emotionally or literally – as performers defy gravity and possibly their own spinal integrity. Created and directed by acclaimed circus artist Chloe Farah, this wordless wonder trades dialogue for daring stunts, poetic movement and enough heart to make even the most cynical viewer feel something. Forget traditional storytelling; here, emotions soar as high as the performers. There are no subtitles, no unnecessary monologues – just sheer physical artistry that speaks louder than words. At the heart of it all is a cafe where lives collide in the most spectacular fashion. A wandering traveller, a restaurant owner, a Brazilian tourist with an infectious zest for life, a businessman who secretly fancies himself a dancer and a pair of inseparable siblings – all caught in the swirl of coincidence, caffeine and some seriously impressive aerial flips. It’s a celebration of human connections, where cultures merge and relationships form over shared meals, spontaneous dance breaks and, presumably, the occasional spilled espresso.     Photograph: One Bangkok   Visually, it’s a feast – intricate choreography, hypnotic lighting and a soundscape that pulls you right into the act

Start stretching now – you’ll want to be limber for this one. Global rap sensation Jay Park is packing his finest moves for his 2025 world tour on the road, and yes, it’s exactly as smooth and steamy as it sounds. It will be his first world tour in six years, following his debut in 2019. He will be landing in Bangkok on June 22, bringing his Serenades & Body Rolls showcase to UOB LIVE at EmSphere Mall. Expect smooth vocals, slick choreography and enough hip thrusts to make you blush. Bangkok isn’t the only city getting a dose of Jay’s signature mix of music and movements. He’s also making his way through Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Singapore, Kanagawa, Osaka, Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland.  Details on tickets and seating arrangements are still under wraps – anticipation is half the fun, right? But for those already mentally preparing their best dance moves, keep an eye on Live Nation Tero and here for updates.    Photograph: moresojuplease   HAVE YOU HEARD? Here’s how to get tickets to Guns N' Roses in Bangkok Tyler, The Creator set to take over IMPACT Arena this September – how to get tickets and what to expect Mariah Carey brings ‘The Celebration Of Mimi’ tour to Bangkok How to get tickets to Yussef Dayes in Bangkok Mew 30’s farewell show in Bangkok: dates, tickets, presale and everything you need to know  

Silence doesn’t need to be awkward – it’s actually the main act here. At the Silent Festival, the quiet is the loudest thing on the bill, proving that you don’t need chatter to have a good time. Art, after all, speaks in its own language, and this festival is a reminder that beauty transcends words.  Forget voices – this festival is all about what you can express without them. The Silent Theatre Festival, brought to you by the House of Mask & Mime, returns for another round of imaginative, non-verbal performances. Happening from May 17-18, from 1pm to 8pm at the Studio, fourth floor of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). From mime and mask to clowning, comedy, object theatre and physical theatre, expect a showcase of storytelling that relies on movement. Whether you're laughing at a cheeky clown or marvelling at some inanimate objects doing the impossible, this is theatre in its purest, most surprising form.  Photograph: House of Mask & Mime This year, the festival cranks up the volume – without saying a word, five silent performances from both Thai and international talent, including: Untold Stories – Silent Rocco, the German master of mime, brings his quiet genius to the stage. Saw Sing Swing – A physical theatre extravaganza with new tunes from Thai musicians AUTTA, Sirasak Ittipholpanich, Stoondio, K.Aglet, Parama Nimitarnun and Jirayu Pranee. Directed by Kwin Bhichitkul. House of Mask & Mime – A whimsical blend of mime and dance that’ll leave you laughing, cry

An earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Myanmar at 1.20pm local time, shaking things up at coordinates 95.73°E, 21.89°N, with a depth of 10 kilometres, according to GEOFON. The vibrations caused high-rise buildings in Bangkok and surrounding areas to sway unexpectedly. Quickly passed around Instagram videos showed water sloshing out of rooftop swimming pools. Some people in skyscrapers initially thought they were just feeling a bit lightheaded – only to realise it was nature's way of reminding us who's boss. The commotion led to officials, office workers and students making a swift exit from buildings to safer ground. Bangkok’s last memorable earthquake experience dates back to 2014, when tremors from a 6.3 magnitude quake in northern Thailand caused similar swaying in the capital. Buildings wobbled, nerves rattled and a building collapsed in the Bangsue area, but fortunately there was no significant damage. MRT and BTS services have been paused temporarily as a safety measure following the earthquake. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported in Thailand so far. Stay safe and follow safety guidelines – make sure you're in a secure location if you feel tremors. We'll bring you more information on this breaking news story as we get it.  

The Bangkok Street Performer Festival is a celebration of live street performances, showcasing musicians, dancers, jugglers, and actors who transform public spaces into vibrant stages. These talented buskers bring energy and creativity to the streets, turning sidewalks into intimate theatres. What makes these festivals truly special is the spontaneity – performers frequently involve the audience, making every act one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s an incredible tap dance or an unexpected magic trick, you’ll never know what surprise awaits. If you’ve ever wanted to perform in front of a crowd without the stress of a proper stage, here’s your chance. This year's event is set to turn public spaces into lively hotspots for music and performing arts right in the city centre. On Saturday, March 22, from 3pm to 9pm at Siam Square Walking Street, this initiative aims to make public areas in Bangkok the go-to places for street performances, sparking social, economic and cultural movement.  Along with performers… Over 44 shows and 34 artists across 7 spots along Siam Square Walking Street. Street shows come in all shapes and sizes – mime, clowning, juggling, puppetry… the list goes on. Photograph: pr-bangkok Each group of performers will rotate through different stages based on the schedule, giving the audience the chance to enjoy whatever catches their eye. Each performance will last around 25-30 minutes, although some acts might stretch to 45 minutes if they’re really on a roll. The shows

Which is your go-to art exhibition in Bangkok? Could it be Bangkok Design Week, the city’s flagship art and design festival, or perhaps the Bangkok Biennale, bringing together contemporary art from all corners of the globe? And what do you look for in an exhibition? A splash of colour, some fun, a bit of interactivity and preferably nothing you can accidentally knock over?  Well, now there’s a new artistic happening to add to your list. MOCANA – the creative juggernaut that first made waves in New York in 2022, is ready to leave its mark on Bangkok. After generating no small amount of buzz, MOCANA’s collective flair debuts at The Corner House and runs for nine days from March 14-22, 2pm-2am. It offers a delightful mix of fun, humour, joy, surrealism and a bit of silliness under the theme of The Human Connection.  Photograph: The Corner House Bangkok The event is an opportunity to discover a newfound appreciation for abstract art with nine engaging workshops run by skilled artists and a variety of performances. It’s bound to be a proper celebration of creativity and includes: Creative lighting installations by Kob and Kor Bor Vor Fine art by Gongkan, Munchausen, Gank Pansuay and Teddy Maithai An art installation by Wishulada Fashion and decor by Maewkhoo, Siam Circle and Surround Living An interactive artwork performance by Cyrus An arts performance by Notep and Lordfai Floral installations by Inbloom Immersive food installations by Her Name Is Nala and Sarnies Film and pho

How spicy do you like it? A gentle burn, a little sweat, or full-on Hot Ones-level fire? Whether it’s on chicken wings, mala noodles, or som tum, Bangkok’s very own Chilli Fest has something for every spice lover. Get ready for the spiciest event of the year as the capital’s hottest festival returns on Saturday, April 5, for its third exciting edition. From 2pm to 9pm, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok will feature a cornucopia of scorching dishes from around the globe. Expect everything from mouth-searing curries to sizzling street food, all served in a lush marketplace that feels more like a green oasis than a fiery battlefield. Don’t panic: if you think you can’t handle the heat, we're here to help you survive and sweat in the summertime – right before Songkran. Book early Think of it as buying sunscreen – you wouldn’t wait until you’re burnt, right? Not only will you secure your spot, but you’ll also nab a bargain – tickets are just B200 if you’re quick, compared to the B300 you'll pay once they're gone from Megatix. Photograph: Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok Discover culinary experiences Yes, spicy dishes are definitely having their moment in Thailand, with some daring chefs even throwing in a fiery ‘bomb’ for good measure. This year’s lineup could be the finest so far, with a whole host of iconic restaurants and Michelin-starred chefs ready to set you on fire – metaphorically speaking, of course.  For a little tease… Zaabniran, run by Chef Ton of Le Du, takes Thai cuisine up a notch,

This week the music world has been buzzing with the exciting news that Tyler, The Creator’s world tour is heading to Asia, and yes, Bangkok is on the list. It’s almost like he knows where the real party’s at. Kicking off in the U.S. this past February, Tyler, The Creator’s tour is set to arrive in Asia this September. Alongside his highly anticipated eighth studio album, Chromakopia, Tyler delivers a project entirely written, produced and arranged by himself – further solidifying his status as a musical mastermind.  Of course, with Tyler’s ever-evolving artistry, you never know quite what to expect. Chromakopia has earned spots in several year-end roundups from major publications, drawing widespread praise for its bold creativity and genre-blending production. With awards season approaching, anticipation is high. The album introduces fresh new sounds while also nodding to his earlier work, offering something for both new listeners and loyal fans who’ve followed his journey.  Photograph: feliciathegoat Excited for Tyler’s Bangkok show? Here’s what we know so far, from potential dates to the special guests who might join him on stage.  When is Tyler, The Creator playing IMPACT Arena?  The American rapper will perform on Tuesday, September 16 When do tickets go on sale? The tickets will go up for grabs from mid-day (12 noon) on Wednesday, March 5. You can find them here on Thaiticketmajor. Photograph: thaiticketmajor How much will they cost? Prices are set at B2,000-5,000 an

Bangkok Music City returns this weekend, taking over a number of venues in the Charoen Krung area, as it has done in previous years. The event on March 1-2, co-organised by Live Nation Tero, Fungjai and Nylon Thailand, delivers an exciting line-up of local and international talent. At the heart of proceedings is the main stage at the General Post Office, a historic building that’s sure to add a unique vibe to performances. But music lovers are being encouraged to explore multiple locations, with showcase spots scattered throughout Talat Noi and along Charoen Krung.  In fact, you could say the city is slowly turning into one big creative hub – and who doesn’t love a good hub? Bangkok Music City is just one of many current cultural happenings designed to broaden the exposure of various art forms. Events like this continue to push boundaries, as does Bangkok Design Week and the Bangkok Art Biennale, where collaboration between the public and private sectors has become the norm. Bangkok Music City also includes a Music Conference and a Music Showcase, creating a space for people to delve deep into the sonic world – whether from an artistic or commercial perspective. For some, the attraction might be to find out where pop stars get their fancy outfits, for others it might be to learn how the music business operates behind closed doors. Photograph: MILLI This year’s headliners include some of Thailand’s top acts, with rapper Milli – who made history as the first Thai artist to pe

Ludovico Einaudi, the Italian pianist and composer who has earned his place in musical history, will perform at True Icon Hall in Bangkok on March 29 and 30. Known for his evocative and minimalist style, Einaudi’s music has touched the hearts of audiences worldwide – and this debut concert is also sure to leave a lasting impression. Einaudi’s works have become synonymous with modern classical music. His discography boasts over 15 studio albums and more than 40 releases in total, many of which have achieved gold and platinum status internationally. His compositions can be heard in iconic films such as The Intouchables, This Is England and I'm Still Here, to name just a few. Hearing these cinematic melodies live is sure to be a priceless experience. Photograph: Ludovico Einaudi   The composer has an impressive history of scoring for film and television. Notably, his music was featured in This Is England, the 2007 remake of Doctor Zhivago, and Acquario (1996), the latter of which earned him the prestigious Grolla d’oro award. He also earned widespread recognition for his contributions to the soundtracks of Nomadland and The Father, both of which garnered Golden Globe and Academy Award accolades. Tickets for the event range from B2,000 to B10,000 and can be purchased via Ticketmelon. Getting to the venue is a breeze. You can take a free boat from Sathorn Pier, which connects the area to the BTS Saphan Taksin station. Boats depart every 10 minutes between 9am and 11pm and take j

The Phantom of the Opera has earned a reputation as one of the most iconic musicals in history. For almost four decades it has charmed audiences worldwide, with more than 160 million people across 47 countries cast under its spell. The production has been staged in 195 cities and translated into 21 languages, proving its global appeal. It even made an impressive stop in Bangkok in 2013, where local theatregoers greeted it with open arms (and probably some nervous glances at the chandelier). The mix of romance, mystery and a masked man lurking in the shadows never gets old. It's a musical that's haunted audiences for decades – but in a good way! If you haven’t had the chance to see it yet, don’t worry – good things are worth the wait.  After 12 years, Tero-Scenario is bringing the spectacular show back to wow audiences once again. Lloyd Webber’s production has graced His Majesty’s Theatre in London for more than 38 years and continues to be a global phenomenon. While the Broadway run has come to an end, the musical lives on through various touring productions. This particular performance is produced by Cameron Mackintosh, the mastermind behind renowned shows like Les Misérables and Miss Saigon. Photograph: The Really Useful Group This is a golden opportunity for fans of musical theatre. The return of The Phantom of the Opera promises to deliver a timeless tale of love, mystery and, of course, a bit of  dramatic mask-wearing. The production takes place from August 5-24 at Mua

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. Photograph: Museum SiamMuseum Siam 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