Bangkok's finally caught a breeze again, and just in time too. Cool season means you can actually enjoy being outside after dark, and there's something rather lovely about exploring Rattanakosin's quieter streets once the daytime crowds thin out. Old town at night hits different anyway, but throw in some ambient light art and you've got yourself an evening out.
Between December 12-21, Phra Nakhon's about to glow with Awakening Bangkok's return. Light installations are sprawling across the old town's historic bones, turning temples, shophouses and even mosques into canvases for digital art.
The best bit? It's completely free. This year's theme is LOVEVERCITY (yes, all one word), exploring different takes on love through light art tucked into the district's atmospheric corners. The streets will fill with love in all its forms.
The main action centres on five key areas: the original Pak Khlong Talat and Sam Yot zones, plus two fresh additions: Saphan Phut and Wang Burapha. Everything kicks off at 6pm and wraps by 9pm, which gives you a solid window to wander without rushing.
Here's the good news for anyone worried about logistics: the whole route's walkable in one evening. No need for taxis or elaborate planning. You can genuinely tick off all 14 installations on foot without breaking a sweat (well, metaphorically speaking, this is Bangkok).
Here’s the map:
If you fancy seeing what's on before you go, images are available online. Otherwise, just rock up between December 12-21 from 5pm onwards and let the lights guide you round.