Do you want to come to Thailand but are not sure what to see and do while you’re here? We have you covered. Below is a list of some of the great events that are happening in Northern Thailand and Bangkok from now until early 2024. There is sure to be something for everyone.
Chiang Mai Performing Arts Festival, 21 – 29 October 2023
CMPAF is committed to organising an international-level performing arts festival every year, rotating various performing arts genres to continuously inspire and bring happiness to the city, communities and people through creative art and performance. This year, the festival will present Pantomime Planet 2023, taking place at โกดังจริงใจ Jing Jai Warehouse and other public spaces around Chiangmai.
The Great Gathering, 17– 20 November 2023
Capturing the power of music, art and mother nature, The Great Gathering is a spiritual music festival in a sacred mountain in Chiang Mai (Sai Mok Waterfall). It brings together people of different talent, cultures and creeds, aiming to build meaningful connections among the people and inspire in individuals a spiritual awakening that leads to self-transcendence.
Loy Krathong Festival, (aka Yi Peng Lantern Festival), 27–28 November 2023
This enchanting event takes place during the full moon of the 12th lunar month, which is celebrated nationwide in November. During this festival, people release small, beautifully decorated baskets (krathongs) into rivers and waterways, symbolising the release of negative energy and making wishes for the future. In the north, especially in Chiangmai thousands of sky lanterns are released, creating a magical spectacle as they light up the night sky. It’s a time of reflection, gratitude, and making wishes.
Chiang Mai Design Week, 2–10 December 2023
Showcasing the city’s emerging design scene, this event brings together designers, artists, and innovators to exhibit their creations, host workshops, and engage in discussions on design trends and sustainability. This event is more than just a gathering; it’s a celebration of artistic vision and the power of design to shape our surroundings.
Thailand Biennale, 9 December 2023 – 30 April 2024
The Thailand Biennale changes venue each edition (Krabi in 2018, followed by Korat in 2021) and now it is the north’s turn. From 9 December to 30 April 2024 the Biennale will take over Chiang Rai, the northernmost part of Thailand and about 3 hours from Chiangmai. Thailand Biennale 2023 aims to “open up” people’s world and their perceptions of art using references to local history, and to engage with contemporary global issues.
Wonderfruit Festival, 14–18 December 2023
Wonderfruit is an annual festival that is held every December at The Fields at Siam Country Club, Pattaya, Chonburi Province of Thailand, not far from Bangkok. The festival focuses on rock, indie, hip hop, electronic dance music, and other genres. But it also has many art installations, workshops, and discussions as well as tastings and banquets prepared by famous chefs. The 4-day event attracts about 10,000 attendees.
Festival: Shambala In Your Heart in Chiangdao, 9–18 February 2024
Shambhala in Your Heart is 10 days of camping, music, art, and hotsprings in Chiangdao, about 1 hour from Chiangmai. The 2019 edition had over 3,400 people from over 50 countries. They welcome live Thai, Japanese, and International musicians to their stages, as well as fire dancers, acro yogis, and all other visual or performance artists. Vendors are also welcome to sell handmade art, goods, and food.
MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, until 1 April 2024
Dreamworld is an exhibition of Thai contemporary artist Mit Jai Inn, held at the Chiangmai powerhouse MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum. Dreamworld #dreammantra continues the artist’s utopian vision of art within everyday life, exploring alternative ways of being amidst global challenges. Mit’s art embodies the circulation of positive energy between humans and nature, using earth-sourced materials to create intuitive, vibrant paintings. As “social architecture,” his works are gifted, their meaning shaped by owners, hosts, and viewers.
Mango Art Festival, August 2023 – May 2024
The Mango Art Festival is Asia’s first and only art festival that combines art, design, and performance, and it has the potential to become a major art event. Besides local artists, art aficionados can also expect foreign artists and galleries, as well as brands to show that art transcends boundaries. It is held over three locations:
- Urban Collectibles at Public House, 11–13 August 2023
- Treasure Discovered at De Siam Antiques (Chiang Mai), 2–8 Dec 2023
- River City Bangkok, 7–12 May 2024
Put them in your diaries and we’ll see you in Chiangmai!
Studio 88 Artist Residency 