Punch Sethapanichsakul

Whether it's catching the suspenseful finale of a para-cycling competition, moving to the beats of underground techno or discovering new ways to experience a plum (yes, the fruit) – the city is pulling out all the stops this week. Ease into it all with a movie night in the park at Ploen Ruedee Market, where Zootopia and Superman are screening under the open sky, free of charge. If that's not enough to kick off your Friday, end the night dancing into the early hours at Techno Night 5 at Liquid Room CNX. Or, if you'd rather ease in a little more gently, head to the Lobbyist for a social evening of learning how to speak Thai like a true local.  As the weekend gets into full swing, head out to Rajabhat University in Mae Rim to take in the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Cup, where athletes from 44 countries are competing in one of the most inspiring sporting events Chiang Mai has ever hosted. For something closer to the city centre, the CMU Project in Thai Art 2026 exhibition at Central Airport Chiang Mai showcases the creativity of the next generation of Thai artists across fashion, ceramics, furniture design and more. And then its the plums. Juicily in season, the Plum to Table Festival at Kriengkrai Mahamitr is where you’ll find wild new ways to eat the humble plum – from free tastings to cooking demonstrations and live music. And if sophistication is more your thing, the Contrasts Concert at the Shangri-La Hotel brings together soprano, clarinet and piano for an intimate evening

From runners and hikers to cyclists and full-time ravers, MASOMETOP brings its community-driven energy to 828 for a night where movement meets music. This genre-hopping ride takes you from the gravel-paths of the UKG scene to dark synths and driving techno as the night gets deeper. There’s even complimentary shots for the first 30 guests, so get in early and settle in for the long haul. March 20. B150 (includes one drink). 828.Alleyway. 6pm-late

The Retro Recess crew is at it again, this time swapping ball-pit shenanigans with something a little more arty. Step out for an afternoon and join this laid-back, community-driven photography session where curiosity is asked to take the lead. With guidance from Chiang Mai’s most playful adults, curious prompts, shared shooting time and gentle guidance leads you through the sois and back alleys of the Old City for a photographer's walkabout that’s anything but serious. Whether you’re shooting on a DSLR, whipping out an old film camera or just using your phone (they have experts in both at hand to help), it’s where you can connect, experiment and rediscover the joy of taking photos with great encouragement from Sabrina and her team.  March 22. B100. Starting at Studio By Char. 3pm-5pm

Dust off your leather jacket and prepare to lose your voice as HAJI FURUTA – one of Chiang Mai’s heaviest rock bands – are rolling into Yoda’s CNX Gallery with a spike-studded dose of hard rock and no-nonsense rock ’n’ roll. Warming things up is DJ Analog Budda, spinning gritty cuts before the main act takes over and cranks the energy all the way up. It’s loud, it’s sweaty and at this price point, there’s really no excuse not to be front row. March 21. B100 (includes a free drink). Yoda’s CNX Gallery. 9pm-11.30pm

Learn how to speak Thai like a local in the low-lit, moody atmosphere of the Lobbyist. This bar, hidden inside the Nimman Mai? Hotel, feels like stepping into a secret haven – think warm toned walls, soft glowing lighting and plush seating that makes you want to settle in for the night. But, instead of soft murmurings and sweet musings between couples, the space lifts its voice for a night of Thai language learning over a cocktail or three. Fun, friendly and open to all, this is where you want to be if Gen Z Thai slang is next on your flashcard schedule. And when drinks are served, it’s a perfect excuse to finally learn more than just ‘khob khun kha’. Mar 21. B399 per person. Call 053 400 567 to book or message on Instagram. Lobbyist Bar. 7pm

Every year, Chiang Mai University students put together an art thesis exhibition, showcasing everything they have worked on throughout the year. This year the theme is Vrddhi – a Sanskrit term meaning growth – with the main goal of cultivating and preserving local Thai arts and culture. This is the city’s biggest showcase of new-generation creativity, with work spanning accessories and jewellery design, furniture design, fashion design, stop motion and ceramics. Taking place at Central Chiang Mai Airport from Friday through Sunday, it’s an easy choice, given you can witness fresh takes on local Thai culture from the next generation of Thai artists before catching up on your weekly dose of retail therapy and chain restaurant buffet dinners. Mar 20-22. Free. Central Chiang Mai Airport. Opens 6pm on March 20, then open from 11am-9pm on March 21-22

If you fancy something a bit more elevated, the Contrasts concert is for you. The classical chamber orchestra is filling the Shangri-La Hotel with the sounds of vocal and instrumental symphonies for one special night. The programme features three prominent artists: soprano Hannah Xiong, clarinetist Nutt Kasemsant and pianist Jonas Dept. Together they take audiences through different eras of music, showcasing the remarkable range that three very different sounds can produce in harmony. Each ticket includes a glass of wine and canapés, and with only 80 seats available, the experience is refreshingly up close and personal. Dust off those dress shoes and get ready for a night that oozes sophistication. Mar 21. B950 per person. Tickets here. Shangri-La Chiang Mai. 6pm

Who knew plums could be experienced in so many ways? Kriengkrai Mahamitr is hosting a Plum to Table Festival, taking you on a journey from orchard to table and celebrating everything this underrated fruit has to offer.Don't underestimate this one, set to be a lively occasion filled with free tastings, cooking demonstrations and live music, there’s much more to it than just the fruit. And, if you're a fan of Japanese culture, it get’s even better with an opening ceremony featuring a Kagami Biraki ritual – where everyone helps open the ume plum brewing barrel together and share the very first glass. Mar 21-22. Free. Kriengkrai Mahamitr. 11.30am-9pm

For the first time ever, Chiang Mai is hosting the Union Cycliste Internationale Para-Cycling Road World Cup and it’s happening at Rajabhat University (Mae Rim Campus). Sure, it’s a little far from the city, but with over 44 countries and 400 individuals taking part, this three day sporting event is one full of adrenaline and suspense. Time trials kick off on Thursday, with races running through Saturday, featuring everything from standard bicycles to modified bikes and handbikes that can be used by athletes with a range of physical impairments. If there’s one time to be there, make sure it’s at the finish line on the main road of Rajabhat University around 3-4pm when the main race of the world cup comes to a photo-finish.   Mar 17-22. Free. Rajabhat University (Mae Rim Campus). More information on specific races and race timetables, click here. 

If electronic music is what gets you dancing, Techno Night 5 is calling your name. Tekno.CNX brings people together with beats that can be felt and understood across cultures – no matter what language you speak, you can vibe to the music. Or at least, that’s what they claim. This weekend, Foster, Indrew, Swill'O and Che'Molly take to the decks, ready and willing to keep the floor moving well into the early hours. Taking place at Liquid Room CNX, the dark and gritty atmosphere adds to the underground feel and makes for the perfect setting for a night on the town. But with only 100 tickets available, grab yours before they're gone. Mar 20. Early bird B226, Final release B339. Tickets here. Liquid Room CNX. 9pm onwards

This Friday night, Ploen Ruedee Market screens two films back to back under the open sky. One of Chiang Mai's more exciting weekend spots, Ploen Ruedee transforms its market venue into an open air cinema for the evening – inviting you to grab a blanket, pull up a chair and settle in for a movie in the city's warm night breeze. On the bill are Zootopia and Superman, two family friendly picks that keep things light and easy-going.. Whether you're bringing the kids or just looking for a laid back night out, it's an easy yes. Best of all, entry is free – which means more money to spend on market street food, ice creams and a beer or two as you set in for the night on a camping chair or slightly-weathered hay bale.  Mar 20. Free. Ploen Ruedee Market. From 6pm

Fringe – a coffee and wine bar just off Nakhon Phing Bridge – has built a following for its contemporary design and community driven events this past year. And while their usual arrangement of vintage threads and fine wines continues unabated, focus now turns to our pets. If you can’t help but take your companion with you wherever you go, then this one’s for you. The Pet and Party night brings together live DJ sets, coffee, wine and a welcoming outdoor atmosphere that’s all about the furry ones. It’s a simple concept, but knowing Fringe, executed exceedingly well. Although completely optional, those with dogs get a small gift and a five percent discount, offering space to socialise without any anti-animal drama.   Feb 27. Free. Fringe. 5pm-late

Graph, known for excellent coffee and clean, minimal interiors, is now expanding further into community markets. After last month's 'Eat Well Live Well' edition spotlighted intentional local food brands, the energy is back with a market focused on design, decor and collectibles. From vintage furniture, rare ceramics and carefully sourced interior pieces that feel personal rather than mass-produced, it’s a great time to refresh your display cabinet. Whether you’re refreshing your home or simply looking for inspiration, this market is worth carving out time for. Feb 27-Mar 1. Free. Graph Roastery and Warehouse. 10am-6pm

The heat is turning up in Chiang Mai, but the air conditioner will no longer be of much help as the local government requests all air conditioners be set to 26 or 27 degrees celsius. This push is part of a broader national campaign, as Thailand responds to an ongoing energy crisis with roots in escalating Middle East tensions.  Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered the measures to begin on 10 March, with Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon launching a formal campaign a week later. Now, Chiang Mai Governor Rattapol Naradisorn has rolled it out across all sectors – both private and governmental. Photograph: Sky News Air conditioning, once a solace for anyone looking to survive Thailand's summer, is now encouraged to sit between 26 and 27 degrees celsius, doors and windows should be kept closed and units switched off the moment the working day ends. While reasonable on paper – during a Chiang Mai March, it is a lot. The measures don't stop at temperature either. Offices are being urged to cut paper use and shift to electronic documents, turn lights off in empty rooms, and the lift – unfortunately – discouraged in favour of the stairs. He’s also asked businesses who can, to operate work-from-home protocols to reduce energy and petrol use, and shift meetings online. Officials have also been told to ditch the tie and wear short-sleeved shirts, except during ceremonies, which may be the most quietly radical part of the whole thing. There's also no official end date. The campa

Calling all seasoned thrifters and vintage lovers. If you’re into Y2K fashion, vintage accessories, secondhand clothing, street food,fairy lights and spoons (yes, spoons!) all in the heart of Nimman, then you’re in luck.  Think Park is back with its Saturday Vintage Flea Market and, contrary to what you’d expect with a market full of cheap second-hand finds, if you're looking to save money, you'll want to stay home – because the finds here are too good to resist. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai The market feels right at home at Think Park, the open-air creative hub at the north end of Nimmanhaemin Road. Founded by Varisa ‘Gift’ Passakornnatee – who studied theatre design at St Martin's in London before convincing her family to turn the plot into a community creative space – Think Park has always been built around supporting local artisans and independent makers. The Saturday Vintage Flea Market manifests that spirit in full swing. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai Past editions of the market have thrown up some serious standout finds – denim jackets with the kind of quality and durability that modern clothing rarely matches and leather handbags whose wear only deepens their charm.  And it's not just clothing. Handmade crafts make an appearance too, including rings made from silver spoons – the kind of one-of-a-kind local souvenir that will beat a mango sticky rice mini magnet any day of the week. Photograph: Think Park Chiang Mai   Beyond the thrill of the treasure hu

Songkran is just around the corner and Chiang Mai is taking it up a notch by adding nine extra days to the city’s festival schedule.  Traditionally Songkran is celebrated over three days, with the official national holiday falling on April 13-15. But Chiang Mai has never been one to keep the party short. Chiang Mai Municipality has just confirmed that this year's celebrations will stretch across 12 days, from April 6-17, making it one of the most expansive Songkran celebrations the city has seen.  The extended period is part of a wider effort to boost tourism and showcase everything the city has to offer during Thailand's most iconic festival. This makes sense given Chiang Mai is one of the hottest picks for travellers this year, with a Traveloka report placing it second most searched destination for bookings in April nationwide. Photograph: A little adrift For those more, let’s say aquaphobic folks, don't panic – the water fights won't be running throughout the entire period. Songkran is about far more than just water anyway.  Aside from the big water battles that take over Nimmanhaemin and the Old City (to name just a few hotspots), local groups and communities will also be celebrating the festival at its heart – a time for purification, paying respects to elders and welcoming the Thai New Year with merit-making and temple visits. From April 1, visitors can take part in bathing Phra Phuttha Sihing at Wat Phra Singh to ask for blessings throughout the month.  Mid-April is

Not every week does the world come to Chiang Mai. But if any week calls for breaking your usual routine, it’s now as the city hosts hundreds of paralympians for a cycling world cup and all the seat-gripping adrenaline that comes with it.   With Chiang Mai becoming the first city in Thailand to host the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Para Cycling Road World Cup, this is a landmark event for the city. The championship brings together riders from 44 countries, with over 400 athletes, staff and officials taking part in one form or another. The circuit itself covers 8.4km (per lap) on wide, fully closed roads, featuring climbs that only add to the challenge. Photograph: Thai Para Cycling Association Para-cycling is contested by athletes with a range of physical impairments, including limb differences and neurological conditions. Each rider carries a unique story and the racing itself is anything but ordinary – expect a striking variety of modified bikes on the course, from standard bicycles to handbikes, with riders competing across different classes. Among the competing teams is the Gaza Sunbirds, a team of Palestinian amputee athletes, who are now competing at world cup-level. There are few sporting events anywhere in the world that offer stories as powerful as these and this week, they're unfolding right here in Chiang Mai. Photograph: Mohammaed Dahmani Haitham Rajabhat University (Saluang Campus) plays host to an action-packed week of elite competition that runs fro