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

Soak up the sounds of jazz at this five-day jazz festival that is taking over the city’s best music venues. In celebration of UNESCO International Jazz Day, the city is hosting a saxophony of events from live performances to workshops, jam sessions and special appearances. The city’s best jazz venues will play host to the event, with things going on every day at Moment’s Notice Jazz Club, North Gate Jazz Co-Op and The Mellowship. Level up your jazz with Mathieu Franceschi, jam with Dandylion and enjoy a musical tribute to Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga on Friday, before sliding between various funk, jazz and neo-soul and acid jazz performances throughout the weekend.

April 30-May 1. Free. Various jazz bar venues, more info here. 8pm-midnight.

Cancel your plans and make way for a party like no other, celebrating 20 years of essential Chiang Mai underground electronic music by Puretek. As Chiang Mai’s biggest and best underground electronic music label, their lineup of DJs is unmatched, especially with Noise and Deep Green also lending their support for venues, artists and party vibes. Get there early to enjoy a free barbeque from 3-6pm and also catch local legends like DJ Jeremy play at Deep Green before sundown. As the night continues, head over to Noise for the late night party with DJ April and DJ Casper playing until 4am. 

May 2. B500, one ticket for both venues. Deep Green and Noise. 3pm-4am.

The campervan-driving, cassette tape-listening folks are back at Jing Jai Market this Friday, with their ‘first Friday of the month’ regular vintage market event this weekend. Taking over the regular offering of handicrafts and nick-nacks, expect to find old vinyl records, second-hand film cameras, vintage clothing and all sorts of weird and wonderful things. There’s also a decent offering of collectables, old books, pins and decor that is perfect for any old-world lovers. 

May 2. Free. Jing Jai Market. 4-10pm

Despite the fire just last week, the Dhara Dhevi music festival is still a go, with an immersive lineup of magical blues, jazz, acoustic, and pop performances by top artists like Chiangmai Blues, TACO Bells, Jazzenger and many more. Indulge in beautiful music, unique crafts, delicious food and a musical weekend under the stars. There’s even a range of art and workshops that you can get your hands on while enjoying the live music, along with special craft shops and vendors for those who like unique gifts. The event will run from 6-9pm for four days, with completely free entry to all who attend. 

May 1-4. Free. Kad Dhara, Dhara Dhevi. 6-9pm

The Northern Labour Network invites everyone to join a march in solidarity with workers and protest current labour issues and show collective strength in the face of bosses and those who exploit the working class. The Labour Day march will begin at Thaphae Gate, with performances from fellow workers, submission of demands, panel discussions from five labour groups and a number of activity booths. The march will then make its way at 5.30pm from Thaphae Gate Plaza to Three Kings Monument. The event will also feature an open mic session for anyone who wishes to speak and the submission of workers' proposals to Chiang Mai mayoral candidates in the upcoming election.

May 1. Free. Thapae Gate and Three Kings Monument. 5pm onwards.

After delivering an electrifying set last year, David Rust is back with another performance at Liquid Room, promising fresh tracks and even more energy this time around. If you missed out last time, don’t make the same mistake this time as the event is even wilder and bigger than ever before. 

May 2. B300 early bird, B500 on the door. Tickets here. Liquid Room. 9pm-late.