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Wander through old Thai cinema sets under the stars at Thai Film Archive

The free three-night event brings live music, Thai cinema history and evening food stalls to Salaya

Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Written by
Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
Thai Film Archive
Photograph: Thai Film Archive
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If you're still scrambling for Valentine's plans, here's a thought. Instead of the usual dinner date, how about wandering through a romantic film set under the stars? Maya City, a historical replica of Thailand's golden age of cinema, is opening its gates for evening visits this February 13-15, 5pm-9pm.

Thai Film Archive
Photograph: Thai Film Archive

Night@Maya City Maya Ratri is back for its sixth year, making the Thai Film Archive an after-dark hangout. The event runs across three evenings and lets you explore Thai cinema history in a completely different mood to the usual daytime visits.

Thai Film Archive
Photograph: Thai Film Archive

You'll find a mix of things to do here. There's the Thai film history museum (atmospheric at night, naturally), live music performances, exhibitions dotted around the grounds, craft stalls selling handmade bits and bobs and food booths serving up tasty treats. Activities run throughout the evening, so you won't be stuck wondering what to do next.

Thai Film Archive
Photograph: Thai Film Archive

The real draw is the outdoor film history replica city itself. There will be old medicine carts from classic Thai movies, vintage railway carriages, the Black Maria studio and Star Plaza where legendary Thai actors have left their handprints. It's basically an Instagram dream for cinema lovers, but genuinely interesting even if you're not glued to your phone.

Thai Film Archive
Photograph: Thai Film Archive

This year's edition gets an extra boost with live performances from Thee Chaiyadej on February 13 and Pijika Jittaputta on February 15. Student bands from around the Salaya campus will also be playing throughout, adding a lovely soundtrack to your evening stroll.

Night@Maya City Maya Ratri, Film Archive, Phutthamonthon Sai 5, Salaya. February 13-15, 5pm-9pm. Free entry.

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