From today to Sunday, the Colorful Bangkok Expo is turning Bangkok City Hall's Lan Khon Mueang Townsquare into an entertainment venue to promote creative tourism. It is a collaborative effort between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, organisations, agencies and cultural networks of artists and designers to create a creative gathering space where people of all ages can come to exchange experiences and share knowledge.
Under the concept of "From Loy Krathong to Countdown: A Season of Colors, Arts, Music, and Blooming Culture", visitors can engage in talks that offer a comprehensive view of the Thai art scene, enjoy outdoor cinema and concerts by famous artists, and witness projection mapping on the Bangkok City Hall building.
Throughout the day, local artisans and designers will showcase their creativity at the Art Market by providing an extensive assortment of one-of-a-kind pieces, handicrafts and functionally designed products. Meanwhile, a walking tour will take visitors to explore numerous historical sites and temples to celebrate the neighbourhood's history and cultural heritage.
The Royal Photographic Society of Thailand also invites both professional and amateur photographers to submit their visually striking images for the "Duo Shots Knockout" photo competition.
Visit bangkokartcity.org.
Bangkok Design Week returns
Bangkok Design Week is set to return to the creative city from Jan 27 to Feb 4, expanding its creative horizons to include 15 landmark districts where modern living is reflected via the artistic coexistence of the old and the new.
Under the theme "Livable Scape: The More People Take Action, The Better The City", this year's festival offers more than 500 activities to welcome people of all ages to participate in discussions, seminars, markets, music and performing arts activities, exhibitions and tours.
Visit bangkokdesignweek.com.
Bo Sang Umbrella Festival throws shade
To maintain its unique Lanna traditions, the 39th Bo Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival will bring colours to the ancient capital of Chiang Mai from tomorrow to Sunday.
The Bo Sang Village will be trimmed with Lanna-style vibrant umbrellas and the procession of women riding the bicycles while holding an umbrella will take over the streets to kick off the festival.
During the day, visitors can learn how to make hanging ornaments and umbrellas with local masters, while a drum show will march along the walking street and young artists will take a stage for several Lanna cultural performances.
Visitors can also see the Little Girl Beauty Contest, the Mistress Beauty Contest and the Bo Sang Beauty Contest after dusk.
Visit the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival page on Facebook.
Outrigger offers great discounts
Vacationers who book a minimum of five nights for stays at Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, Outrigger Surin Resort in Phuket, and Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort year-round can enjoy special discounts up to 20% until Jan 31.
The long stay package includes daily breakfast for two and either a romantic two-course dinner for two with cocktails or in the case of Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, a complimentary bottle of wine.
Visit outrigger.com.
