The best things to do in Bangkok this weekend (May 1-4)

Ahmed, a Moroccan artist based in Bangkok, presents a solo exhibition that reflects his dual background in photography and music. His work centres on the human form, capturing gestures that blur the line between motion and pause. Each image becomes a quiet study of vulnerability and presence, where expression takes precedence over spectacle. There’s a subtle rhythm to his portraits – a visual tempo that draws from his musical roots, translating into frames that feel both composed and instinctive. The subjects, often caught mid-thought or mid-movement, offer a sense of unguarded honesty rarely seen in posed work. It’s this interplay between intimacy and distance, control and spontaneity, that defines the tone of the exhibition. In Ahmed’s lens, the body doesn’t perform – it reveals. May 1-30. Free. Sound Pop Coffee, 8am-5pm

Doraemon fans, this one’s for you. The 100% Doraemon and Friends Tour arrives in Thailand for the first time, following stops in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Shanghai. The event celebrates Fujiko F. Fujio’s 90th anniversary with life-sized manga figures. Inside, expect two key zones. The first is a manga-inspired space with life-sized figures of Doraemon and his crew – each standing at 123.9 cm, just like in the comics. The second includes a themed cafe and pop-up store with items exclusive to the tour. A giant inflatable Doraemon – the world’s largest – will also debut by the Chao Phraya River, adding a surreal new landmark to Bangkok’s riverside. May 1-June 22. B199-1,790 via here. Attraction Hall, Icon Siam, 10.30am-9pm

Bar Sathorn’s latest Rooftop Garden Edition blends creativity with conscious practice. This time, cocktails draw on ingredients freshly picked from W Bangkok’s own rooftop garden. Central to the concept is a closed-loop system – kitchen scraps are composted and used to nourish the herbs that then star in the drinks. Behind the bar, mixologists work with basil, rosemary and other greens grown just a few floors above, infusing each cocktail with vibrant flavour and a sense of place. The menu includes three garden-led signatures: sathorn garden, a smooth tequila-based mix with minty coconut and cucumber; sathorntini, a herbaceous martini featuring clarified green apple and rosemary; and sathorn breeze, a tropical blend of rum, melon and Thai basil. It's sustainability, with a splash of elegance. Until June 30. Starting from B420. Reserve via 02-344-4025. W Bangkok, 2.30pm-1am

The duo exhibition by DXIZE and EVENZIM brings together two strikingly different artistic worlds. DXIZE uses vivid doodle art to inspire emotional healing, encouraging viewers to find happiness within themselves without the need for external comparisons. In contrast, EVENZIM presents Hungry Head, a character dressed in a dinosaur suit, seen wreaking havoc as a reflection of the overlooked violence that quietly persists in society. Though their approaches diverge, both artists challenge audiences to reconsider familiar emotions and social realities through their distinctive lenses. The exhibition features an array of paintings, digital prints and sculptures, offering an immersive journey into these parallel narratives. Visitors will also have the chance to collect limited-edition memorabilia created especially for the occasion, adding a tangible piece of the experience to their collections. Until May 4. Free. KICH Ari Space, midday-7pm

At Skyline Film Bangkok this May, nostalgia is more than a mood – it’s a programme. The season begins with Wicked, a glitter-drenched musical fable already adorned with two Oscars, and yes, the songs you sang into your hairbrush in secondary school make a triumphant return. But the real magic lies in the line-up’s genre-hopping ambition. One night you're reliving Freaky Friday’s body-swap chaos, the next you're floating through the melancholia of 500 Days of Summer. Breakfast at Tiffany’s offers pearls and ennui, while Into the Wild reminds you that escaping society sounds romantic until you're eating berries you shouldn't. By 4 May, we’re in Casablanca one moment, then sobbing our way through The Fault in Our Stars. Seven films. Four days. Plenty of feelings. Bring tissues. Or gin. May 1-4. B500 via here. Rooftop, River City Bangkok. 

There are weekends when the only sensible response to modern life is seafood – grilled, fresh, occasionally shucked at the table by someone who knows what they’re doing. At Market Aunglo, this response is ritualised every Friday to Sunday, where the drama begins at B75. Yes, 75. For Irish oysters. But don’t mistake affordability for austerity. This is indulgence in its casual form: imported cold cuts, tapas, a garden that feels like it might have a secret, and music that never overwhelms the conversation – unless, of course, you want it to. And your dog can come too. Happy Hour runs from noon. You’ll stay longer than planned. Until May 31. Starting at B75. Bitterman Restaurant, 11am-11pm

There’s something about underground culture – an unspoken bond, a shared vision that transcends genre or geography. It’s the kind of force that drives the creative collective UNDERHATCHES, where filmmaking, events and visual production collide in unpredictable ways. Then there’s FANGS, a ghetto community built on vampire lore and the raw energy of underground spaces. It’s a world where night and noise bleed into one another. RELOADED takes that energy international, connecting rave scenes across Paris, Tbilisi, Bangkok and Istanbul. A mix of punk, electro, techno and everything in between, it’s the pulse of a movement defined by intention rather than format. May 2. B300-350 via here and B600 at the door. Blaq Lyte Rover, 9pm onwards

Eman El-Husseini is back in Bangkok for her second visit, bringing her sharp wit and electrifying stage presence. Known for her time at the iconic Just for Laughs festival, she’s also made her mark on comedy circuits in Australia and New York. There, she’s a familiar face at the legendary Comedy Cellar, where her fearless style and biting humour have earned her a loyal following. This return to Bangkok promises to be a treat for fans, with her unique perspective on everything from life’s absurdities to its darker corners. Eman’s comedy is a refreshing blend of insight and irreverence, always pushing boundaries. May 2-3. B600 via hare and B800 at the door. The Comedy Joint, 8pm-9.30pm 

In a city obsessed with the shiny and new, there’s something oddly comforting about giving old things another go. Bangkok’s second-hand market returns, this time with a conscience – wrapped neatly in the mantra ‘Reduce, Reuse & Recycle.’ It’s less about frugality, more about intention. Here, forgotten clothes, neglected knick-knacks and once-loved toys find new hands and fresh purpose. Thailand’s reputation as a global hub for second-hand gems isn’t unfounded. But this isn’t just about the thrill of the find. It’s a small rebellion against overconsumption, an invitation to slow down and reconsider what we discard – and what’s still worth keeping. May 2-4. Free. Near the Red Building, Chatuchak, 4pm-midnight

Bar.Yard doesn’t do subtle, and its Cinco de Mayo celebration is no exception. For four nights, Bangkok gets a full-on Mexican mood – smoky grills, fiery salsas and a margarita shake-off challenge that’s more riot than ritual. On May 5, five women behind some of the city’s boldest bars – 2463 Speakeasy, Bar Scofflaws, Blanc Bkk, GIR and Yào Rooftop Bar – step behind the counter at Bar.Yard to stir things up. Before that, there’s the all-you-can-eat Mexican feast: B600 nets you a table full of spice, grilled meats and all the attitude you’d expect from a rooftop party that doesn’t bother pretending to be chill. May 2-5. Reserve via 02-056-9999. Bar.Yard, 5pm onwards

Yung Singh doesn’t just play music – he rewires a room. With a sound that shape-shifts across UK garage, grime, Punjabi folk and jungle (sometimes within the same breath), he’s become a scene-shifter for diasporic club culture, slipping between influences like they’re genres he invented. This Bangkok stop pairs him with RomRom, whose sets flirt with Bollywood nostalgia and pan-Asian beat flips, and Genji of Suburb Sound, known for high-octane blends of hip-hop, UKG and Afrobeat. May 2. B300-400 via here and B800 at the door. BEAM, 9pm onwards 

This isn’t your average burlesque night – it’s a cosmic adventure that blurs the lines between theatre and spectacle. The show unfolds like a space odyssey, each act more thrilling than the last, taking you on a journey through glitzy, otherworldly moments. As the night begins, a welcome drink sets the tone for an evening of surprises and starry-eyed wonder. The doors swing open at 7:30pm, and the show launches into orbit at 8pm sharp. It’s a celebration of glamour, fantasy and the unexpected – an experience that promises to be as unforgettable as the stars themselves. May 3. B990 via here and B1,190 at the door. Hemingway's, 7.30pm onwards

Bar Temp. is launching its Neighbourhood Series with a name worth knowing. For the inaugural night, Bali’s DITA steps behind the decks, bringing her kinetic energy and genre-hopping spirit to Bangkok. Starting out in 2014 after diving headfirst into Indonesia’s shifting soundscapes, DITA carved her place through the ‘Perky Club’ collective, blending Jakarta’s grit with Bali’s sun-dazed hedonism. Her sets drift through proto-house, ‘90s breaks, Balearic waves and whatever else catches her ear, stitched together with the sort of effortless instinct you can’t fake. Local favourite Brent Burns joins her for the night, for a dance floor where unpredictability is the only constant. May 3. B300-500 via here and B700 at the door. Bar Temp., 9pm onwards

MOVIEMOV – Italian Film Festival 2025 arrives not with blockbusters or big-budget flair but with something far more elusive: nine Italian features that exist beautifully out of frame. Each one, from a different filmmaker, resists easy categorisation – the kind of stories that don’t shout, but linger. Included are titles like Il Mio Compleanno by Christian Filippi and Diamanti by Ferzan Özpetek. Opening and closing with two documentaries on writer Tiziano Terzani – one a life journey, the other a final interview – the festival doesn’t just showcase cinema. It asks you to slow down and actually watch. May 3-6. Free. House Samyan.

Khana Bierbood is back, and they’re bringing with them a fresh wave of sound after the release of their latest album. The band, formed in 2012 by university friends in Bangsaen, Thailand, blends Western 60s-70s psychedelic influences with Thai funk, Luk Tung, and Molam styles. It’s a fusion that feels both timeless and contemporary, rooted in generational storytelling and cultural reflections, laced with a sharp, witty edge. The night will also feature a live set from Scottish singer-songwriter feeney.mark, whose original material will make its Speakerbox debut, bringing fresh energy from Blackridge, West Lothian. A night where the old and new collide with irresistible rhythm. May 3. B500 at the door. Speakerbox, 9pm onwards

Discover a unique path to healing, where sound, flowers and spirit converge. Through the gentle power of bach flower remedies, release pent-up emotions and ease the wounds that linger within. A crystal sound bath offers a deep cleanse for your energy, restoring balance with every resonating note. Meanwhile, an oracle reading offers insight, guiding your spirit towards clarity and peace. It's an invitation to reconnect, to listen deeply and to restore harmony in ways that transcend the everyday. Whether you're seeking emotional release or spiritual direction, these practices promise a transformative journey of healing that nurtures both the heart and soul. May 4. B1,111 via Instagram @soundscape.th. Energy Space, Slowcombo, 11am-1pm

A blend of ceramics and painting, beckons viewers to admire a conversation between artist and material, where memories are etched into clay. Each piece reflects the artist’s unique touch – a dialogue between the hand and the earth that reverberates through every curve and line. Some artists express dreamlike realms through lines, while others channel inner emotions with vivid colours or symbols that invite the viewer to engage with deeper themes. While their methods may feel familiar, the use of fresh mediums adds a layer of unpredictability, transforming these works into something more than just art – they become an experience. Until Jun 8. Free. MMAD Mass Gallery, 11am-7pm

An exhibition that plunges the heart of loss and destruction, unfolding not only through the lens of wars and disasters but also the disintegration of the human spirit. In a world ravaged by power struggles, conflict, and endless turmoil, it becomes clear that the very essence of humanity is at stake. Yet, in this wreckage, art emerges as neither a weapon nor a simple escape. Instead, it offers a sanctuary – a space for contemplation and introspection. The exhibition gathers works from 19 artists, each reflecting on the collective human experience of grappling with loss. It invites viewers to consider how new life can emerge from the rubble, sparking the possibility of rebirth from devastation. Until May 11. Free. Joyman Gallery, 11am-6pm

Created by a fraudulent psychologist, delves into the complexities of capitalism. This thought-provoking display aims to critique and satirise the way society interacts with the capitalist system, while also highlighting the mental health issues it fosters. Presented through the lens of a fake bookstore, the exhibition showcases counterfeit books, offering a unique perspective on the consequences of living within such a system. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the impact of capitalism not only on societal structures but also on individual well-being, using irony and symbolism to challenge conventional views. By blending art and social commentary, it provides a compelling exploration of the emotional and psychological toll caused by modern economic systems. Arp 11-May 3. Free. Lou Hieb Seng, 11am-7pm

In the theme ‘Be Your Own Island’, this exhibition features eight emerging artists, each offering their own distinctive viewpoint. The space is divided into individual rooms, with each artist’s work carefully displayed in its own dedicated area. The diverse range of art on show covers a variety of themes, from personal identity to social issues, allowing visitors to explore different perspectives. Each artist brings their own voice and vision, making for an engaging and thought-provoking experience. This exhibition provides a platform for new talent to showcase their creativity while offering a fresh and dynamic take on contemporary art. Until Jun 29. Free. Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, 10am-8pm

An exhibition by seven artists brings together traditional and modern Thai art in a celebration of the essence of cultural heritage. In Phra Nakhon, an area rich in history, timeless architecture and artistic treasures from the Ayutthayan to the Rattanakosin eras remain a testament to Thailand’s enduring identity. This unique showcase blends classical and contemporary styles, offering a fresh interpretation of the nation’s artistic legacy. Set on Phra Arthit Road, a historic and cultural hub, the event highlights the creativity and spirit of Thai culture. Visitors, both local and international, are invited to explore the connections between past and present while gaining a deeper appreciation of the artistic traditions that continue to shape the country. Apr 1-May 31. Free. 10 10 Art Space, 10am-7pm

Artist D-Jai Kosiyabong's solo exhibition explores the intersection of visual art, sound, language and memory, offering a multi-sensory experience. By blending painting with sound, Kosiyabong challenges traditional ideas of communication, creating a space where meaning emerges from the gaps between different forms of expression. Her innovative approach encourages viewers to reconsider how they understand and interpret the world around them. The exhibition invites a deeper reflection on how language can dissolve into pure sensation, moving beyond words and inviting the audience into a realm of raw experience. Apr 3-May 31. Free. SAC Gallery, 11am-6pm

Experience a contemporary acrobatics performance that fuses physical movement, poetry and human connections. The show follows the tale of a traveller and a couple who run this enchanting cafe. More than just a dining spot, it serves as a meeting point for diverse stories. Characters include a lively Brazilian tourist, a businessperson with a love for dance and two close-knit siblings, each forming surprising bonds. The performance highlights the beauty of new encounters, blending cultures and people through passion and remarkable acrobatic talent. Created and directed by Chloe Farah, an internationally recognised contemporary acrobatics artist, the production showcases her innovative approach to storytelling and movement. Until May 18. B1,190-1,490 via here. Alliance Française de Bangkok, 7pm onwards

This immersive, interactive digital art exhibition themed "Nature and Wildlife" highlights the beauty of ecosystems and biodiversity through advanced techniques like projection mapping, laser art and high-quality media. Spread across nine rooms at King Power Mahanakon, each space presents a distinctive experience reminiscent of a fantastical zoo. Notable features include the Kaleidoscope zone, enveloped in a variety of flowers that serve as food for butterflies; a laser projection room showcasing the majesty of predators; and an interactive underwater world. Youngsters can also enjoy a colouring activity and have their creations appear on the walls. A special surprise awaits with the appearance of Moo Deng, the famous pygmy hippopotamus from Khao Kheow Zoo, who awaits in different rooms to delight you. Until Jul 31. B350 via here and B1,000-1,200 including the Sky Walk via here. Fourth floor, King Power Mahanakon, 10am-9pm

Enhance your weekend with a delightful brunch at Bangkok Trading Post, where a selection of carefully crafted dishes, complemented by two hours of unlimited Tanqueray Gin, offers the ideal relaxed feast for friends and family. The brunch features a variety of sharing-style dishes, including starters such as Shucked Oysters, Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad. For mains, enjoy options like Steak and Fried Egg, Crispy-Crusted Salmon and Pork Schnitzel. To finish, indulge in an individual Apple Crumble Tartlet served with Yuzu Cheese Mousse, White Crumble and Vanilla Ice Cream. Until Jun 29. Reserve via 02-079-7000. Bangkok Trading Post, 137 Pillars Hotel, midday-3.30pm

Reap Factory offers a quick and affordable tree-course lunch starting at B450. Available daily, the Express Set Lunch Menu features six options that include Thai, Western and Japanese dishes, all made with fresh, responsibly-sourced ingredients. Thai choices include Set A, which comes with satay gai, pad krapao salmon or salmon kra-thium prik Thai, and chao guay for dessert. Set B features a spicy glass noodle salad, sweet and sour pork or golden-fried chicken, and pandan noodles in coconut milk. It’s a delicious and speedy way to enjoy a variety of flavours. Reap Factory Courtyard, daily

Biscotti welcomes chef Giuseppe Bonura, a native of Syracusa in Sicily, to the team. Imbued with a modern twist on traditional Sicilian flavours, chef Giuseppe’s new menu spotlights authentic ingredients and contemporary flare. Dishes include Panzanella Alla Siciliana, a refreshing tomato salad with almond cream, pine nuts and balsamic red onion; Arancini, Sicilian croquettes filled with beef ragu and caciocavallo cheese, served with a spicy tomato sauce; and Risotto Al Branzino, a wonderfully fragrant sea bass risotto. His stunning main course offerings feature stars such as pan-fried sea bass with spelt, mussels, clams and artichoke in a rich prawn bisque, and fantastic desserts like sweet mandarin cannolo, which combines orange ricotta, mandarin compote and hazelnut ice cream for a perfect finish. Reserve via 0-2126-8866. Biscotti, midday-10.30pm

This collaboration presents a fitness experience with The Ripple Club’s transformative aquatic workouts. Offering two class types – Ripple Signature and Ripple Box – The Ripple Club introduces aqua cycling and aqua boxing to Thailand, providing a fresh approach to aquatic fitness. The program delivers a low-impact, full-body workout suitable for all fitness levels, using water’s natural resistance to strengthen muscles while reducing stress on the joints. Combining high-intensity cardio with targeted strength training, both classes maximise efficiency in less time. Participants enjoy benefits such as stress relief through rhythmic movements, enhanced muscle recovery, and decreased soreness, creating the perfect balance between fitness and rejuvenation. Every Sat and Sun. Check the program here. W Bangkok, 8.30am-9.20am and 9.30am-10.20am

The debut performance of The Little Prince in Thailand blends immersive digital interactive experiences with captivating installation art, inviting audiences to explore this much-loved story. The journey begins with the Story Book Theatre offering an engaging introduction to the narrative. Covering more than 2,000 square metres, the event promises an inspiring and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Also, you can visit "The Store," where you will find an exclusive selection of merchandise inspired by The Little Prince. Each item has been thoughtfully designed and chosen to reflect the charm and essence of the story, providing a unique keepsake for fans to take home. Jan 24 - May 11. B350-1,100 via here. Icon Siam, 10am-8pm

This exhibition brings a fresh approach to addressing the mental health challenges faced by many in Thailand. It creates a therapeutic space that blends digital art with engaging sensory elements such as light, colour, sound and touch. The focus is on the connection between the body and mind–acknowledging the importance of physical sensations in managing emotions. The exhibition focuses on the psychological concept of 'self-compassion', encouraging the audience to reflect on their well-being and mental state. Until Jul 12, 2025.  B200 via here. 2nd floor, MMAD at MunMun Srinakarin, 11am-8pm

This isn’t your average burlesque night – it’s a cosmic adventure that blurs the lines between theatre and spectacle. The show unfolds like a space odyssey, each act more thrilling than the last, taking you on a journey through glitzy, otherworldly moments. As the night begins, a welcome drink sets the tone for an evening of surprises and starry-eyed wonder. The doors swing open at 7:30pm, and the show launches into orbit at 8pm sharp. It’s a celebration of glamour, fantasy and the unexpected – an experience that promises to be as unforgettable as the stars themselves. May 3. B990 via here and B1,190 at the door. Hemingway's, 7.30pm onwards