Every week, we sift through tonnes of activities, shows, art exhibitions and things to do. Here is our especially curated list of what's hot this week in Bangkok and beyond. Enjoy!
Activities
+ Rainbow Crowd
Thailand LGBT Expo / Hall 2, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani / Jan 25-28
Come out (of the closet) to join Thailand's first LGBT-themed expo. Expect a wide range of products and services for pink money from fashionable items, tour packages, hotels and financial institutions. Fun activities will be held over the four-day event, including a male beauty pageant, a fashion show, a drag makeover, "LGBT Hall of Fame" exhibition and more.
10am-8pm / Hall 2, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani / http://thailandlgbtexpo.com, http://facebook.com/thailandlgbtexpo, 02-833-5109.
+ Retreat in the City
Wellness Retreat 2018 / The Hive Bangkok / Jan 20
If you want to live 2018 in a healthier way, this event should help you kick-start that. Meet local influencers from the health and wellness industry in Bangkok and be inspired. The healthy marketplace and workshops will take place on the rooftop of the co-working space building. Register via Eventbrite at the shortened link below.
11am-6pm / The Hive Bangkok, Piman 49, Sukhumvit 49 / http://goo.gl/C57Eje.
+ Digital Gurus
Asia Digital Expo 2018, The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center / Jan 26-27
Whether you're looking for a job in the digital industry or an entrepreneur who wants a leg up in this 4.0 world, consider attending the Asia Digital Expo 2018. Be inspired by success stories from the businesses who have incorporated digital tools to boost themselves. Possible partnerships await at the business matching session. Learn from experts at free seminars. Register at the website link below.
10am-7pm / Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Ratchadaphisek Road, MRT QSNCC / http://asiadigitalexpo.com.
+ For 20+
When Night Falls (Shibari Bondage Show) / The Overstay / Jan 20
You can count on Overstay to provide you with something out of left field. If you're curious in Japanese bondage art (possibly Fifty Shades readers), consider joining this show with live music by Narongrit, Hope The Flowers' lead guitarist.
9pm-1am / The Overstay, Charan Sanit Wong 40 / 02-883-4936, http://facebook.com/TheOverStay / B200.
+ Eclectically Inspiring
Bangkok Edge Festival 2018 / Maha Rat Road / Jan 20-21
Bangkok Edge is back and will take place during this weekend. It has something to pique anyone's interest from talks, workshops, cooking demonstrations, movie screenings and live music. The line-up of Thai indie darlings include Hugo, Chanudom, Yellow Fang, Yena and Rasmee Isan Soul. Be sure to check the full schedule on their Facebook page. The activities take place at Chakrabongse Villas, Rajini Auditorium (at Rajini School) and Museum Siam. Food and drink shops will be set up along Maha Rat Road. All activities are free but access to beer garden and the tour of Chakrabongse Villas requires a ChillPass. Email chillpass@bangkokedge.com to get one.
12.30pm-midnight / Maha Rat Road / http://facebook.com/bangkokedge.
+ Vintage Market
Made By Legacy Flea Market: Number Nine / Sermsuk Warehouse / Jan 26-28
Bangkok's famous vintage flea market returns at a new riverside location. The Sermsuk Warehouse at Pepsi Pier occupies over 10 rai of land so the market will definitely be bigger than ever before. The three-day event features 200 vendors in a special setting with Taksin Bridge as the backdrop. It will be a treasure trove for those who love vintage items in minty condition as well as a foodie playground. Get off at BTS Saphan Taksin and take a short boat ride from Sathorn Pier to cross the Chao Phraya River to get there.
3pm-midnight / Sermsuk Warehouse, 721 Charoen Nakhon / http://fb.com/MadeByLegacy / B100 per person for one-day pass.
Parties
+ Live. love. wonder. again
Wonderfruit 2018 / The fields at Siam Country Club / Dec 13-16
Although last year's Wonderfruit ended about a month ago, the next installment of Thailand's four-day lifestyle festival has been announced already and is set to take place in December. A limited number of pre-early bird tickets went on sale last week, so for those who managed to secure theirs, they are set for a celebration of art, music, and food. For those who didn't, be ready for the next round of tickets.
The Fields at Siam Country Club / http://goo.gl/HDyh9v.
+ Fenner (UK) at Levels / Levels / Jan 25
London's DJ Fenner is ready to make people dance with his well-rounded mixing skills next Thursday. The producer has played in major EDM festivals last year which includes Ultra Music Festival and Sunburn Festival, and has shared the stage with major headliners in the EDM scene including Laidback Luke, Dada Life and Dash Berlin. Now on the rise in Asia, Fenner is also known for his collaborations in the Korean EDM scene, producing remixes with Korean music artists such as Park Hye-kyung and Crispi Crunch.
9pm-2am / Aloft Hotel, 6F, Sukhumvit 11 / http://fb.com/levelsclub / B200 for ladies, B300 for gents.
+ Friday Night Rave
Shinedoe / Beam / Jan 19
Nigerian-born, Amsterdam-based DJ/producer Shinedoe will be taking over the main stage at Beam this Friday night with her signature style that takes influences from the sounds of Detroit, Chicago and Amsterdam music scenes. From performing in underground festivals and clubs around the world to founding her own music label Intacto, the techno queen's passion for electronic music will make a performance that will last all night long. Joining Shinedoe, London-Shanghai creative collective Yeti Out will also be headlining tonight in the Dalmatian room, making them Beam's first International residency since 2016.
From 9pm / Beam, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit 55 / http://fb.com/beamclubbkk / B500.
+ Ready for a bass war
Station Warriors / Beam / Jan 20
Collaborating with some big names in music, including Daft Punk and Gorillaz, English DJ duo Stanton Warriors will be bringing down the bass come Saturday night. Having gained prominence in the dance music scene with their multi-award winning compilation "The Stanton Sessions" in 2001, members Dominic Butler and Mark Yardley have performed globally in some of the world's biggest parties from warehouses and boat parties to major festivals such as Coachella and Burning Man. Dance along to their beats as they conquer and rule the main stage of Beam.
From 9pm / Beam, 72 Courtyard, Sukhumvit 55 / http://fb.com/beamclubbkk / B500.
+ Toe-tal dance
Ninetoes / Sing Sing theater / Jan 24
Having been a hip-hop producer and DJ for 15 years, Germany's Ninetoes had only burst into the house music scene in 2013, thanks to his track, "Finder" which became one of the most Shazam'd tracks in Ibiza of that year. His music have gained plays and recognition from other prominent DJs such as Loco Dice, Carl Cox, and Koze among others. His performance at Sing Sing Theater will be joined by supporting act and residential DJ duo's Adiero + Nukier.
9pm-3am / Sing Sing Theater, Sukhumvit 45 / http://fb.com/singsingtheater / B300.
Shows
+ Musicians unite
Singer songwriter night / Maggie choo's / Jan 25
Gather up as Maggie Choo's popular monthly showcase of talents is coming up next week. Hosted by local folk rocker John Will Sail, this sixth installment of Singer Songwriter Night will feature performances from Jennifer Lackgren of Jenny and the Scallywags as well as folk-electronic singer Hanna. Newcomers Rock Shreller, an experimental electronic group, are also joining the show which include singers Niall Murray and Mia Tamasirawat. Drinks will be available at half price from 8-9pm. A live party with a DJ will begin from midnight until late.
From 8.30pm / Maggie Choo's, Silom / http://fb.com/maggiechoos / Free entry.
+ A night of comedy and magic
Stand up comedy W/ Darren Matthews, & Chris Cross / Jan 19
If you would rather laugh your heart out this Friday night, The Comedy Club Bangkok will be bringing Darren Matthews, one of Ireland's best comedians, where he will perform his new show "A Backpackers' Guide to Oz". The show is about one man's backpacking journey through Australia, New Zealand and Canada. The comedian will be joined by magician/comedian Chris Cross who has made TV appearances on BBC and ITV.
From 8.30pm / The Comedy Club Bangkok, Royal Oak Pub, Sukhumvit 33/1 / http://goo.gl/W6paaG / B400 in advance, B600 at the door.
+ Lemon Fresh
Freshly Squeezed sounds / Live Lounge BKK / Jan 19
With a handpicked selection of South East Asia's underground talent, Live Lounge Bangkok brings their monthly flagship live music event, Freshly Squeeze Sounds, for music lovers to discover new acts in a comfortable live setting. The lineup includes Bangkok-based electronica/rock/hip-hop group Wasabi Bytes, hip-hop band Bang Sue Electrix, singer Claire Stanley and funk DJ Rory Breaker-Morant and one more act that has yet to be announced.
7pm-2am / Live Lounge BKK, Sukhumvit 13 / http://goo.gl/b2d5VV / B200.
+ Are you In(cubus)
Singha music presents Incubus / BCC Hall / Feb 15
Pardon us while we burst (with joy) as American alt-rockers Incubus are set to return to Bangkok three years after fans rocked out to their songs back in 2015. Following the release of their eighth studio album, which sees them collaborating with EDM superstar Skrillex, the band's music is sure to take Thai fans to a whole new level this time around.
7pm-12am / BCC Hall, CentralPlaza Ladprao / http://goo.gl/Kzzihu / B1,500 for Zone A, B2,200 for Zone B.
+ Get low
TNT Music festival 2018 / BITEC Bangna / Feb 17
If EDM festivals have been giving you a feeling of repetition and sameness, TNT Music Festival hopes to break from the monotony as the event mixes electronic dance music with R&B, hip-hop and trap music. While the lineup features EDM DJs such as DJ Soda and Walshy Fire of Major Lazer, Thai hip-hop legends Thaitanium and entertainer Bankk Cash are also joining the fray. To top it all off, rapper and pioneer of crunk music Lil Jon is headlining the festival. Those who are looking for a little more musical variety can look no further.
6pm-2am / Bitec Bangna, Hall 106 / http://goo.gl/GRAu9W / B1,800 for early bird tickets, B2,200 for normal tickets, B3,500 for VIP tickets.
+ Big Boyd
BOYdKO50th #1 RHYTHM & BOYd CONCERT / IMPACT Arena / Feb 4
It was 24 years ago when R&B producer Cheewin "Boyd" Kosiyabong released his debut album Rhythm & Boyd, which has become something of a masterpiece in Thai music scene. The album generated hits many still love and featured singers who have gone on to become big names today. Besides the original singers from the album, Bakery Music's four co-founders will reminisce on the stage about their legendary music label. Definitely a nostalgia trip.
6pm / IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani / http://goo.gl/9BFbfu / B1,200, B1,500, 1,800, 2,000, 2,500, B3,000, B3,500, B4,000.
+ All that jazz
Thailand international jazz conference 2018 / MACM hall / Jan 26-28
Mahidol University will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of their annual international jazz conference, featuring performances from jazz music's greatest over the course of three days. Attendees can take part in activities at the conference which includes jazz improvisation competitions and workshops taught by music experts. There will also be an exhibition for all things jazz, from music instruments and parts to instruction books and CDs.
Jan 26 from 9.30am-11pm, Jan 27-28 from 10am-11pm / MACM Hall, College of Music, Mahidol University / http://goo.gl/AjduAE / B500 for one daytime clinic pass, B800 for one-day performance pass, B3,000 for three-day conference pass.
Art
+ Art to Ponder
Half Degree of Separation / Tang Contemporary Art / Until Feb 25
Entang Wiharso, a leading contemporary Indonesian artist, will have his first solo exhibition in Thailand. His best-known mediums include large-scale paintings, wall sculptures and installations. Wiharso explores national identity, migration, race, political states and power conflicts. His recent work continues to focus on aspects of migration, from the Indonesian diaspora to the idea of belonging, through the lens of family and history.
Tue-Sat 11am-7pm / Tang Contemporary Art, 3F, The Peninsula Plaza, Ratchadamri Road / http://fb.com/tangcontemporary.
+ Miracle Makers
We Create Miracle From What We Are / ChangChui / until Feb 27
Thaiwijit Puengkasemsomboon thinks miracles can happen every day with ordinary people. The Chiang Mai-born artist creates new things from leftovers but doesn't claim to be an eco-warrior. He reinterprets old things and makes them new according to his imagination. His "functional objects" may make you see ordinary objects in a new light. The possibility to reinterpret things becomes what he calls a miracle.
1-9pm (closed on Wednesday) / ChangChui Gallery, ChangChui, Sirindhorn Road, Bang Plad / www.changchuibangkok.com, 081-817-2888 / Free.
+ The Air We Breathe
Right to Clean Air -- The Art Exhibition / BACC / Until Jan 28
Questioning the quality of air we breathe is the inspiration behind this photo/installation exhibition by Greenpeace Southeast Asia. Ruangsak Anuwatwimon turns hazard particulate into artwork both beautiful and sad, to raise awareness of the negative effects of air pollution. The purpose of this exhibition is also to convince the Pollution Control Department to include particles that are smaller than 2.5 microns in Thailand's Air Quality Index calculation to better protect the Thai people. Visitors are welcome to attend talks with topics such as "Where is Thailand in the PM2.5 Air Pollution Issue?", "Smart and Sustainable City, 4.0 or 0.4?", "Transboundary Air Pollution in Southeast Asia", and "Dust Talk -- Behind the Scenes of Polluted Places". This should be one edutaining event.
10am-9pm / BACC, 1F, Rama I, BTS National Stadium / go to http://act.gp/2AEWQJ5 for full schedule.
+ Critique Through Colours
Sensorial Realities / Sathorn 11 Art Space / Until Jan 28
Sajja Sajjakul delivers a sharp critique on modern life via his oil paintings layered with metaphors and symbols. He tackles globalisation, social injustice, political turmoil and more through the colourful, nightmarish landscapes he creates. His works are both captivating and thought-provoking. Some of the paintings featured here were on display in the exhibition of the same name held at Agora Gallery in New York last July, but the artist has since created and added new pieces.
5.30pm-1am / Sathorn 11 Art Space, Sathon 11, Sathon Tai / http://fb.com/sathorn11artspace, 02-004-1199.
+ For the Adult Eyes Only
Japanese Erotic Grotesque Art Exhibition, Maison Close / Until Jan 31
Maison Close's second exhibition is definitely risqué, showcasing select works from some of the finest ero-guro contemporary Japanese artists. Ero-guro, or ero guru nansensu, is a movement started circa 1930. It weirdly marries eroticism and grotesqueness (hence the name) into something you want to look away from but quite can't. Works by Toshio Saeki, Suehiro Maruo and more are on display. If you want to google their names, please know it's NSFW. Opened in November, Maison Close is an art gallery, tattoo shop and bar contained in one shophouse, co-owned by Romain Guiot, who runs Outlaw Creative Cuisine next-door.
3pm-midnight and closed on Monday and Tuesday / Maison Close, 397/399 Charoeng Krung 45 / http://fb.com/maisonclosebkk.
+ Ethereal Beauty
NONENTITY / RCB Galleria / Until Jan 31
Chatchawan Rodklongtan's fifth exhibition, at RCB Galleria in River City Bangkok, will see the debut of the painting Tida Marn 10. Expect the gorgeous blending of semi-naked women and Thai motifs, resulting in captivating and ethereal imagery. Other works on display by this award-winning artist are inspired by Buddhism
10am-8pm / RCB Galleria, 2F, River City Bangkok, Charoen Krung 24 / http://fb.com/RiverCityBangkok, 02-237-0077.
+ Wearable Art
Chainreaction / ATTA Gallery / until Feb 25
Expect bling-bling by 12 artists who participated in the Handshake project, which supports emerging New Zealand jewellery artists. The project allows select artists two years to develop their idea and artworks, gives them mentoring, and provides exposure and the opportunity to have their works exhibited.
1-7:30pm / ATTA Gallery, Charoen Krung 36 / http://attagallery.com, 02-238-6422.
Food
+ Sundays hungry Sundays
Lazy Sundays / W Bangkok / Until Mar 25
The Kitchen Table's Lazy Sundays promotion returns to serve up an unlimited à la carte brunch that elevates your last day of the weekend. A new menu boasts a number of dishes which comprise healthy ingredients like Smashed avocado with smoked salmon and Brown rice salad with crab meat, as well as hot dishes like Thai chicken Quesadilla with corn. A selection of crepes, and a number of sweet dishes, are also available.
noon-3pm / The Kitchen Table, W Bangkok, 106 Sathon Nua / Email bf.wbangkok@whotels.com, visit http://fb.com/wbangkok or http://wbangkok.com, 02-344-4000 / B850++ inclusive of coffees, teas, juices and soft drinks. Additional beverage packages available.
+ Noodles and curry
Khao Soi noodles & curry delights / The Okura prestige Bangkok / Until Mar 31
Feast on a selection of curry and noodle dishes at Up & Above Restaurant for the whole first quarter of the year. Curry dishes like Massaman nuea wagyu and Choo chee goong louis-suan, or Fried tiger prawns with sweet curry as well as khao soi noodle dishes like Khao soi nong gai (noodles with yellow curry paste and chicken leg) and Khao soi je (noodles with yellow curry paste and vegetables) are available for patrons to enjoy.
12-10.30pm / Up & Above Restaurant, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Witthayu Road / Email upandabove@okurabangkok.com, visit http://okurabangkok.com, 02-687-9000 / Dishes start from B270++.
+ Starbucking the new year
New drinks and desserts / Starbucks / Until Feb 26
To herald the new year, Starbucks has released three new drinks and a number of desserts. Until Feb 26, enjoy the Okinawa brown sugar latte and Salted caramel mocha crumble in hot, iced or frappé form. There's also the Chocolate black tea with earl grey jelly frappucino for a refreshing drink on a hot day. Crowd-favourite dessert Boston cream pie (B130) makes its comeback, and new desserts like the Signature chocolate (B130) and the Pandan custard brix (B85) are available as well.
Visit http://starbucks.co.th.
+ Let's get cray-sea
Seafood buffet / Mercure Bangkok Makkasan / Ongoing
The Station Restaurant has a seafood spread to welcome the new year. Feast on fresh oyster from Korea, sushi, king crab, and a number of hot dishes while surrounded by railroad-themed decor.
6-10pm / The Station Restaurant, Mercure Bangkok Makkasan, 1599 Kamphaeng Phet 7 / Email h8422@accor.com, 02-115-3333 / B888++ inclusive of soft drinks, additional B550++ for two hours of free flow beer and wine.
Travel
+ Up Up and Away
Singha Park Chiangrai International Balloon Fiesta 2018 / Singha Park Chiang Rai / Feb 14-18
Book a flight to Thailand's northernmost province to check out this colourful fest. The annual balloon fest at Singha Park returns. The blue sky will be brightened up with 50 aerostats (fancy word for hot-air balloons) and you can take selfies with the pink field of cosmos flowers. Enjoy food and drinks from shops across the country and concerts by noted Thai artists.
4pm-midnight (Feb 14 starts from 8am, Feb 18 closes at 11pm) / Singha Park Chiang Rai, 99 Moo 1, Mae Korn / http://facebook.com/SinghaparkChiangrai, 091-576-0374 / Free entry.
+ Around Thailand in One Park
Thailand Tourism Festival: TTF 2018 / Lumpini Park / Until Jan 21
The Tourism Authority of Thailand will host the 38th edition of Thailand Tourism Festival at Lumpini Park. Expect highlights and best products from Thailand's five regions. It's not only about watching as this fest is about doing too. Fair-goers will get to experience first-hand the Thai way of life through various activities available at five unique tourism villages. Foodies should check out the fourth zone where traditional food from Bangkok's 50 districts as well as regional dishes will be available. Catch a traditional or contemporary performance on the main stage every day in the fifth zone and have your camera ready for the "Discover Thailand" daily parade.
Noon-10pm / Lumpini Park, Rama IV Road / Free entry.
+ Just U & U
Be My Valentine / U Chiang Mai / Feb 1-28
Surprise your significant other with a romantic stay in Chiang Mai. The getaway for Valentine's Day includes daily buffet breakfast, a bottle of wine, one welcome chocolate set and of course a special bed set-up to get you two in the right mood. The hotel is on Ratchadamnoen Road where the Sunday Night Market takes place. You literally walk out of the hotel's doorsteps and right into the market. You can book now for stays from Feb 1-28. A minimum of two-night stay is required.
U Chiang Mai, 70 Ratchadamnoen Road, Sri-Poom, Muang / www.uchiangmai.com, 053-327-000, reserve@uchiangmai.com / from B7,299 per night.
+ Vegetarian Retreat
Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort / Last Minute / Ongoing
Not being a good planner doesn't have to mean you'll always get a bad deal. Book three days prior to your arrival at Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort, Away's newest property, to receive up to 60% off. As its name suggests, Away Chiang Mai Thapae is located close to Chiang Mai's famous gate. Guests will be right in the middle of the activity and attraction hot spot while staying at this boutique hotel dripping with Lanna charm. It also boasts Moreganic restaurant which serves vegetarian cuisine only.
Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort, 9 Soi 1 Kotchasarn Road, Chang Klan / http://awayresorts.com, 053-904-974.
+ Travelling while Giving Back
Discover a Hidden Community in Krabi with Sustainable Tourism / Local Alike / Until April 30
Local Alike, a Thai social enterprise specialising in community-based tourism, has joined force with EverydayKrabi to come up with five curated packages for those who love to explore Krabi. Each focuses on different sides of Krabi from forest conservation activities at Laem Sak Village, hot springs in Klong Thom, to islander life on Koh Lanta. They are available as either 1D trip or 2D1N trip. Go to Local Alike's website for more info.
Movies
+ The shape of water
(directed by Guillermo del Toro)
Who's in it?
Sally Hawkins, Octavia Spencer, Michael Shannon.
What's it about?
Elisa (Hawkins) is a janitor who lives a lonely life. However, when an "asset" is brought it in at the top-secret government facility where she works, she finds herself drawn to the creature, later on falling in love with it.
Why watch it?
Not only is it directed by the visionary Guillermo del Toro; it won best director at the Golden Globes.
+ Bleeding steel
(directed by Leo Zhang)
Who's in it?
Jackie Chan, other people.
What's it about?
A special-forces agent (Chan) must protect a young woman against a crime gang. Strangely, he feels as if he shares some sort of connection with the young woman.
Why watch it?
Jackie Chan performs stunts. Honestly, though, get Jackie Chan in a rom-com like he's been talking about.
+ 12 strong
(directed by Nicolai Fuglsig)
Who's in it?
Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, William Fichtner, Michael Peña.
What's it about?
Based on a true story, the film follows the first troops deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11. They join forces with Abdul Rashid Dostum, a warlord, and wage war against the Taliban.
Why watch it?
There might be a post-credits scene of Michael Peña summing up the whole movie Luis-style, as in Ant-Man.
NETFLIX
+ The open house
After a harrowing tragedy, a mother and her son move into the house of a relative to find some peace and quiet. Instead, they're troubled by mysterious forces. The Netflix original film, starring 13 Reasons Why star Dylan Minnette, is available for streaming today.
+ Riverdale (season 2)
What dark mystery is the town of Riverdale yet to reveal? What sort of over-the-top drama is going to take place? And what dumb thing is Archie going to set out to do? A brand new episode is available for streaming today.
+ Van Helsing (season 2)
Vanessa Van Helsing wakes up from a three-year coma to a world overrun by vampires. Luckily for us, vampire slaying runs in the family. The second season drops today.
