The best things to do in Chiang Mai this weekend (October 9-12)

Deaf Shop is turning four, and the much-loved music hangout is throwing a proper birthday bash before shutting up shop for a two-week break. Expect an all-vinyl soundtrack courtesy of Selecta Roots Muang, Moodyboom and Oomboi Lauw, spinning records well into the night. More than just a party, it's a celebration of the community of music lovers, artists, locals and curious visitors who have made Deaf Shop their home over the past four years. Entry is free, so come raise a glass and give the team a proper send-off before they take a well-deserved break before reopening again on October 30.

Oct 10. Free. Deaf Shopi. 7.30pm-late

Who says field trips are just for kids? Retro Recess is taking its next adventure into the foothills of Doi Suthep for a morning of forest trails, wildlife spotting and good old-fashioned outdoor fun. The group will explore the beginner-to-moderate Huay U-Mong Nature Trail at Choeng Doi Suthep Nature and Wildlife Center, keeping an eye out for deer, peacocks, buffalo and hidden temple ruins along the way. Afterwards, everyone heads to Lansieow – Freeative Art Space for lunch and a chance to make some new friends. Bring comfortable shoes, plenty of water and a little curiosity. Lunch is at your own expense, and spaces are limited, so RSVP in advance.

Oct 10. RSVP here. Choeng Doi Suthep Nature and Wildlife Center, Chiang Mai. 9am-2pm

Nature hikes not your thing? Lucky for you, Retro Recess is doing a double-whammy weekend, with an inner-city park party on Sunday as well. Skate X Create is their almost-monthly playful afternoon at Chiang Mai Railway Station Park where you can strap on your skates, get creative with a sketchbook or have a go at double Dutch jump rope. There’ll be music, shared art supplies and plenty of space to paint, doodle, roll around or simply lounge on the grass with some new friends. All abilities are welcome, and there’s absolutely no pressure to create a masterpiece or show off your skating skills. Bring your skates, art supplies, a blanket and a few snacks, and let the afternoon unfold.

Oct 11. Free, donations welcome. Chiang Mai Railway Station Park. 2-6pm

Forget the big stages and settle in for something a little more intimate at Kindred Studio’s monthly LivingRoom Session, a celebration of Chiang Mai’s homegrown music scene. This edition brings together folk-pop singer-songwriter Daisy Howard, who has spent three years working on her debut album exploring love, heartbreak and life in the north, alongside local favourites Madame Blue, whose heartfelt songs draw inspiration from love and dreams. Expect an evening of stripped-back performances, personal storytelling and the sort of atmosphere that feels more like hanging out in a friend’s living room than attending a concert.

Oct 9. B200. Kindred Studio. Doors 8pm, music 8.30pm

En garde! Chiang Mai is sharpening its competitive edge this weekend as the Chiang Mai Fencing Open 2026 brings fencers together for three days of international competition. Organised by Chiangmai Fencing Academy and the Chiang Mai Provincial Sports Association's fencing division, the tournament takes over Chiang Mai Hall at Central Plaza Airport. Whether you're an experienced fencer looking to check out the scene, or simply curious about the sport, there's plenty of swordplay to get excited about. It may not be the usual sporting weekend you had in mind, but… you get the point. 

Oct 9-11. Chiang Mai Hall, CentralPlaza Chiang Mai Airport. Enquiries: 095 326 6699. 8am-5pm

Hotel bars are not uncommon, but what is uncommon is when they have something extra worth visiting for. The Marriott’s Wang Bar is one of these spots, where the bar is less about the drinks (although they’re still very good) and more about the experience. Inside, you’ll find three zones that are all about the fun, packed with massive-size golf simulators, private karaoke rooms and e-gaming setups that are a blast – all starting at just B750 per hour. At the bar, golf-inspired drinks make up the menu, served in a plush yet authentic Lanna-heritage style setting. A great start to the long holidays, or a nice filler after the splashing is over next weekend. 

Now open. Free entry, B750 per hour of activity. Wang Bar, Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. Open Wed-Sun, 2pm-midnight.