Chiang Rai turns up the volume this cool season as the Chiang Rai Jazz Festival 2025 makes its encore, sending trumpets, basslines and brassy bursts out across the north.
Under the theme ‘Analog Pulse,’ the Chiang Rai Contemporary Art Museum (CCAM) shifts from quiet gallery to full-bodied music playground, celebrating all things analogue. From vinyl to live instruments, acoustic sets and physical art, this year’s ‘jazz’ feels more eclectic than ever before.
Sure, it may be a ‘jazz festival’, but this year’s lineup is anything but narrow. Headlining this year is the internationally-acclaimed Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band (we can’t get enough of them, honestly), supported by Chiang Mai’s own Rasmee Isan Soul – another one of our faves.
They’re joined by Natt Buntita x PYC, PETITE, Jūji, Nice Guys, Groovy Doopy, Khela, Overload and a wave of other rising northern talent pushing the festival into bolder, more eclectic territory.
Throw in some vinyl DJs spinning warm grooves and you’re all-set this weekend. Plus, for the more proactive of us out there, hands-on art workshops, kinetic gallery installations and food stalls all add up to be the most ‘more-than-jazz’ jazz festival the region’s seen to date.
And, if you’re flying in specially, why not pair the weekend with a high-energy ‘90s-themed brunch at Le Méridien Chiang Rai – their Italian restaurant, Favola, is to die for.
With its mix of international acts and homegrown talent, Chiang Rai Jazz Festival is quietly (or rather loudly) staking its claim as a fully-fledged cultural hotspot – watch out Chiang Mai, there’s competition afoot!
And if you’ve spotted the festival poster and wondered about the curious four-eared, five-eyed figure staring back – he’s no made-up mascot. According to organisers, he comes straight from Chiang Rai folklore – a mythical helper with magic powers and an appetite to match. Maybe you’ll even meet him if you’re lucky enough.
A two-day pass sets you back B750 but is the best value for money, while one day passes sit at B400, B350 for students. Tickets are on sale via Eventpop and the main event kicks off around 3pm each day, with headliners lighting up the evenings.