The best things to do in Chiang Mai this weekend (Mar 20-23)

Yoda is back again this weekend with a powerful line up of punk bands that will have you moshing and headbanging all night. Dummy Toys is the headliner, a dolled-up and eccentric Chinese punk band, with supporting acts of local favourites MÄÄRÄYS, Terror Terror and Olex’s. Promising an epic night of raw music and cross-cultural chaos, this is certainly one for the punk-lovers calendar.  Mar 21. B300. Yoda’s CNX Gallery. 7pm-late. 

Delving into the state’s destruction of memory surrounding the 1932 People's Party Revolution, Charinthorn Rachurutchata became captivated by the images of women from this era, especially in Thailand with the dawn of Thai democracy, and the emergence of ‘Miss Siam’ beauty pageants. ‘Beauty on the Golden Sky’ is a photographic ode celebrating the women of the revolutionary era. Working with Kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing ceramics with gold, Charinthorn literally inscribes golden stains onto a tarnished history through the performative ritual of applying each gold leaf in a live performance art piece. Mar 22. Free. Head High Second Floor. 6pm-10pm

PuraVida is hosting the biggest hip hop showdown in all of Chiang Mai this weekend, as the stage gets set for the city’s finest to go head-to-head in a rap battle like no other. Expect next-level collaborations, fierce rhymes, and insane energy that will keep you on your feet all night long. Maboy from Flowmation Dance Academy is also joining in on the action, bringing his smooth yet powerful vibe to the stage as host and rumoured performer. The bar is offering happy hours from 7-9pm while the event runs from 6pm to late with a packed schedule of rapping, dancing and street-style performances. Mar 22. B150. PuraVida, located on the top floor of One Nimman. 6pm-1am

Enjoy a family fun day out at Hong Tiem Cafe with a ton of hot air balloons, live music, markets and more. Additionally the event will feature not just hot air balloons but ‘fancy balloons’ with all kinds of shapes and characters. Musicians include Top, Art and Me, all singing live, supported by DJs and fun activities, photo booths and even free health checks for the entire family. Guaranteed to be a jam packed day of balloons and much more. Mar 21-22. Free. Hong Tiem Cafe. 4.30pm onwards.

Central Festival is hosting a huge music and brew festival this week with craft drinks, food and live music every day. There are over 60 delicious food and craft beverage booths featured at the event, including fusion food, creative desserts and a variety of craft beverages for you to try. Headliners over the five days include 3D Band, H8U, Anyside, HowWhyWhenYou and Suthep Band – promising a great lineup of music perfect to pair with those ice cold brews. Mar 19-23. Free. Central Festival. 5pm-10pm.

For a more sophisticated night out, this live show is expected to bring an electrifying feel to the weekend with Groovy Doopy teaming up with Coco Lashaun for a night of high-energy modern jazz groves and harmonies. Coco Lashaun is an American vocalist with a strong voice and magnetic stage presence, while Groovy Doopy is one of the city’s most energetic and stylish jazz bands. Live music kicks off early with supporting acts followed by the main show at around 9pm.  Mar 21. Free. Moment’s Notice Jazz Club. 7pm onwards.

This hidden market event is more than just a market, it’s an experience. From midday on Saturday, Look Inside is transforming a secret location into a bustling night market that starts in the day. Packed with a mixture of pre-loved treasures, creative new finds, unique services and delicious food and drink, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Those with logical minds can sign up to the chess challenge, while those looking to refresh their look can join the clothing swap activity to keep their look sharp. DJs will spin tunes to keep the energy up while tarot readers, dancers and a whole load of good vibrations will keep you entertained. Mar 22. Free. Look Inside’s secret location here, 157 Moonmuang Road. 12pm onwards.