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Photograph: Sara Pista Image Maker
Photograph: Sara Pista Image Maker

The best things to do in Bangkok this October

Vegetarian Festival, swing dance class, exhibitions, film photowalk and more. Here are the best things to do in Bangkok this month.

Kaweewat Siwanartwong
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  • Things to do
  • Huai Khwang

Spend an enchanting evening at the annual International Dance and Music Festival, a once-a-year opportunity for art lovers to witness world-class performances. This month, the festival continues to captivate audiences with its spectacular shows. Highlights include the contemporary dance performances by Vertigo Dance Company, the ballet portraying the gladiator's tale Spartacus by the Novosibirsk Ballet and a rendition of Puccini's La Boheme by the China National Opera House. Each performance promises a unique blend of artistry, culture and emotion, making it an unmissable event for art enthusiasts of all ages. Until Oct 20. Tickets B1,600-6,000 here. Thailand Cultural Centre

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Langsuan

Enrich your artsy soul with the first solo exhibition of talented neurodivergent artist Mix Anusone Tunarin. Mix is a member of the Artstory by Autistic Thai, a social enterprise that supports autistic children and adults in Thailand. The exhibition displays over 15 artworks. Each offers a glimpse into the artist's vivid imagination as he brings mythical creatures to life on canvas. One of the standout pieces is Fiery Phoenix, an acrylic red, yellow and gold masterpiece which took seven months to complete. As well as appreciating his art, visitors can purchase his work with proceeds going directly to the artist and Artstory. Until Oct 20. Free. Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, 1pm-8pm

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do
  • Yaowarat

The winners of this year’s annual portraiture competition have been revealed, and if you want to know who took home the grand prize of B500,000, this exhibition is a must-see. On display are My Gril My Gang by artist Nuttawut Kaiwansin, winner of the Portrait Prize chosen by the jury panel, My Wife by artist Veeravoot Phumdong, winner of the Packing Room Prize judged by the River City exhibition team and Waiting For This Moment For So Long by artist Rattasil Somoppahad, winner of the Youth Prize for artists under 16. Alongside these winning paintings the display also showcases 72 finalist artworks. As you explore the exhibition, take your time to examine each piece closely and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Prize. It is a prize awarded to the painting that receives the most votes, with the winner announced on November 4. Until Nov 3. Free. River City Bangkok, 10am-8pm

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do

Join an inspiring community-based learning camp about Kampong Thom, Cambodia, celebrating the rich culture of the Kui indigenous village. The event begins with an introduction, followed by an engaging sharing session where participants can connect and share stories. You'll enjoy a music ceremony inspired by the sounds of the forest, immersing yourself in the natural rhythms that surround you. Next, you'll dive into the rich flavours of the Kui community through a sharing session focused on traditional food and drinks. Don't forget to bring a small natural item—something made from nature or that evokes the beauty of the outdoors—to contribute to their collective "forest". Oct 1. Free. Register here. Arai Arai Cafe, 7pm-10pm

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do

Gather your team of two to six and compete for the best Disney sing-along event around. This is your chance to show off your Disney skills, test your knowledge of the magical songs and compete for exciting prizes. This is an unforgettable experience for all ages, whether you're a fan of classics or the latest hits. Take your vocal skills to the next level. The top team will win a B2,000 dining voucher, while the second-place team will receive a B1,000 dining voucher. Bring your best, gather your friends and get ready for a night of music, laughter and friendly competition. Oct 2. Free. Book here. Aesops Rooftop, 6pm onwards

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Festivals

Known as the J Festival, this 10-day event is where you can enjoy local vegan and vegetarian food at eateries from street-side stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants around the country. One of the places to celebrate is at Bangkok’s Chinatown. Watch the lion dance and a Chinese goddess parade in the evening of October 3 and discover your favourite vegan food like kuay chap (Teochew noodles) or fried tofu along the road. A few minutes’ walk from MRT Wat Mungkorn Station.  Oct 3-11.  Free. Yaowarat Rd, all day 

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Can Srisawat
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Comedy
  • Comedy clubs

Laugh out loud on their tenth anniversary at the stand-up comedy club near BTS Phrom Phong Station. Celebrate this milestone with funny gags from Liam Wilkinson, the winner of The Comedy Gong Show Bangkok 2024, and Charles The French, a magician and youtuber with more than 400,000,000 views on his channel. Book your spot to join in the humour of these performers. Oct 4. B500 via here. The Comedy Club Bangkok, 8pm onwards

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Can Srisawat
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do

Join Bellamy Hunt, the founder of Japan Camera Hunter, for a film photowalk where he will guide participants through the historic areas of Samsen and Banglamphu. Film photography enthusiasts may be familiar with this service. As the name suggests, it is known for sourcing rare and vintage film cameras and selling limited-edition film. This time participants will spend two hours exploring the area alongside Bellamy Hunt, Sweet Film Bar and BKK Collective. But the excitement doesn't stop there. After the walk, there will be a film photography meet-up at the Apron Bar, where you can enjoy B100 credits towards craft beer. There will also be an opportunity to purchase Japan Camera Hunter merchandise and a chance to win a signed copy of Japan Camera Hunter's unreleased book, Film Camera Zen. So bring your favourite camera and get ready for an unforgettable photowalk. Oct 5. B650. Apron Bar, 4pm onwards 

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do

If you like pulsating beats or mesmerising melodies, this event has something for you. Join this party that celebrates diverse music genres: electronica, hard groove, neo-trance, industrial and techno. This ultimate experience features the hottest international DJs, including Xiorro, C3LINA, Metamoksha and Mae Happyair. Each artist brings their unique sound and energy, and the dance floor will be alive all night long. Gather your friends and get ready to dance the night away. Oct 5. B400-500 via here and B600 at the door. Decommune, 9pm-3am

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do

Celebrating World Mental Health Day. The Thailand Institute for Mental Health Sustainability, Maybelline Brave Together, Samyan Mitrtown and Thai PBS have joined forces to make this happen. This is an inspiring gathering where you can write positive affirmations on a community wall, participate in engaging mental health activities and attend a listening session led by Sati App. Complete a questionnaire before the event to gain insights into your mental well-being and receive a limited gift to take home. Promote mental health awareness and support one another in a nurturing environment. Prioritise your well-being and connect with your community at this event. Oct 6. Free. Samyan Mitrtown, 11am onwards

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do

It seems that ‘BKK’ should be added to the name of the American pop-rock band LANY, which stands for Los Angeles and New York, as they return to Bangkok for the sixth time. Vocalist and guitarist Paul Jason Klein and drummer Jake Clifford Goss are coming back with their newly released fifth studio album, A Beautiful Blur. Thai fans will have the chance to sing along to album hits like XXL and Love at First Sight. And who knows? They might surprise their fans by performing their hit tracks such as ILYSM or Mean It live as well. This concert is a part of LANY: A Beautiful Blur World Tour with other destinations including Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Japan. Oct 6. B2,300-5,700. UOB Live, 8pm onwards  

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand

A celebration of healthy lifestyle and vegan cuisine. Meet VJ Ja Natthaweeranuch Thongmee, a top fitness influencer, who will hold a workout session before brunch at The Kitchen Table. Fit for both vegans and non-vegans, this event serves a wide selection of vegetarian and healthy food. From quinoa fried rice to smashed mushroom burger, it might be time to enjoy more healthy eating, beginning with this event. Oct 6, B2,090. W Bangkok, 12.30pm-3.30pm

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Can Srisawat
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do

Unaharn Festival is back for its 2024 edition. The event is spread across two days and two nights, held right on the border of Khao Yai National Park in Thailand. This incredible festival is hosted in a gorgeous six-hectare resort, surrounded by the beauty of nature. For two magical days, two custom-built stages at this enchanting place bring the joy of music and fun to everyone who attends. Oct 12-14. B2,00-2,500. Rabiangprai Valley Resort, Nakhon Nayok, midday onwards

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Conventions

If you love comics, this festival is for you. Now in its third year, online art magazine BKK Unzine continues to showcase a wide variety of comic art genres and shine a light on local creators and emerging talent. The festival will feature a two-week exhibition from October 1-13, followed by a two-day convention on October 12-13. The meeting will include events and activities such as an interview panel with manga artist Atsushi Kaneko, known for his manga Bambi, Soil, Evol and a Make a Diary Comic Zine workshop where participants will learn how to make a zine with Singaporean comic artist Juliette Yu Ming Lizeray. Oct 1-13. Free. Bangkok Art And Cultural Center, 10am-6pm

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do

Ari and Simon are an inspiring couple who are totally passionate about the connection between individuals, music and partners in dance. As champions of the International Lindy Hop Championships, Savoy Cup and Korean Lindy Hop Championships, they just love sharing their passion for swing culture with others through teaching, performing and competing. Take this chance to learn and dance with them. They offer classes for intermediate-advanced and advanced levels, featuring two 75-minute sessions and a complimentary 60-minute themed class. You can also enjoy two fantastic parties: on October 12, dance the night away with the YUSU Jazz Band and on October 13, join in a DJ social dance party. Go and experience the joy of swing dance. Oct 12. B2,900-3,700 via here. Jelly Roll Jazz Club, midday onwards

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Markets and fairs
  • Lat Phrao

Strengthen the bond between you and your furry friends at this pet-friendly event. A collaboration with Atmos pet hospital, the market presents a number of sport-like competitions where cats, dogs and owners can vie for prizes and kudos. It also features free workshops, drinks and over 20 pet-related shops and stalls. For those who're looking for a new furry friend to take home, they can adopt a future friend with no fee. Oct 18-20. Free. Central Eastville, 10am-8pm

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Can Srisawat
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do

Where strangers gather under dim lights in search of deeper connections. In this atmospheric setting, your heart's true desires will be revealed in each conversation. Let the shadows guide you as you mingle with other mysterious souls and find your perfect "boo." Meet 10-15 like-minded singles while enjoying one complimentary drink and snack. Plus, take advantage of the restaurant’s deal with 15 percent off food and drinks during the event. The haunting continues at the after-party at The O.S.S bar and who knows, you may connect with someone special this Halloween. Oct 5. B1,499 via here. Jim Thomson Dining Experience, 7pm-10pm

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Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Yaowarat

This is the first puppet festival to take place in Bangkok, hosted by Puppet Siam, a collective of enthusiasts dedicated to the art of puppetry. The festival brings together artists from various puppetry disciplines such as hand puppet, shadow play, marionette, object theatre and mask theatre. Featured performers include Jae, Ta Lent Show, Act It House and For WhaT Theatre, with each artist presenting a short performance lasting between three to eight minutes. For fans of puppetry or those simply looking for a weekend activity, check out this exciting puppet festival. Oct 19-20. Early bird B900 for 2 rounds before Oct 6 and regular tickets B550 per round and B1,000 for 2 rounds via here. River City Bangkok, 2pm,7pm

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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  • Things to do
  • Siam

Whether you're an art enthusiast or just want to admire the creative talents of Thai artists, you can visit the twelfth Asia Plus Art Exhibition. This annual event showcases the works of participants in the Asia Plus Art Contest, organised by Asia Plus Group Holdings. Now in its fourth year, the exhibition features artwork under the theme Mental Imagery, where artists from all over Thailand were invited to explore the freedom of the mind through two-dimensional art. Visitors to the exhibition will encounter a variety of pieces that express a range of emotions, from positive to negative, as well as personal life experiences. It's a great opportunity to support local talent and appreciate the diversity of artistic expression. Oct 22 - Nov3. Free. Bangkok Art And Cultural Center, 10am-8pm

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Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
  • Things to do
  • Exhibitions
  • Bang Na

One-stop cafe solution event where you can buy ingredients, improve your barista skills or even pick up a coffee machine. Join an intensive barista course from Benyapa Naowan, Grand Barista Championship 2013 winner. Discover the secret of natural vanilla by Sam’s Vanilla Farm’s Sombat Duangwongsri. Bakery and ice cream showcases are also present to provide another side of the cafe business. Oct 24-27. Free. BITEC Bangkok, 10am-7pm.   

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Can Srisawat
Staff writer, Time Out Thailand
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