What’s up in March.
Events in Thailand this March from Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Ayutthaya, Koh Samui and more. Keep your eyes on this calendar if you are out and about.
Thao Thepkasattri-Thao Sri Suntorn Festival: 2nd-17th
This festival has a strong historical connection to Phuket and lately has been promoted as one of the most important events in the island. The fair lasts many days and largely consists of sporting and cultural experiences. During the festival, several things happen at the same time at other locations in Thalang District (in the north of the island) such as at Wat Pranangsang and Talang Chana Kasuk Memorial Field.
Chiang Mai International Music Festival 2013: 8th-10th
PIMEX must be one of the most interesting marine showcases in Asia. Last year it displayed a collection of well-known yachts from prestigious shipyards around the world including Ferretti Yachts, Sunseeker, Princess Yachts and Fairline, with an estimated value of US$250 million over the four-day event. The 10th Anniversary event will be the biggest and cover over 2,000sqm of air-conditioned exhibition space as well as up to 60 on-water display boats.
Chiang Mai Golf Classic: 28th-31st
Chatchai Suphin, a young Thai artist, creates his paintings from his personal experience from fellowmen. His previous series entirely reflects his feeling derived from his surrounding people, love experience, and lost and sorrow experience. Chatchai’s painting interestingly conveys his uncommon sense. He owns experience of engraving which it can be obviously shown in his elaborate and meticulous paintings. Symbols in Chatchai’s painting are not used for only revealing their meaning, but explicitly indicating the emotional feeling. On view Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
‘Marsi’: 1st-29th
This is a public showcase of amazing artworks by Thailand’s leading artist family, headed by national artist Chamruang Vichienket. Some 70 contemporary bronze sculptures and paintings honoring the philosophy that unity and harmony are the means to achieving lifelong peace will be on display. Part of the proceeds will go to the Foundation for the Blind in Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. The Queen and Art Learning Center of Baan Silpagam Vichienket. Where: City Gallery, The Sukosol Bangkok, 417 S. Ayutthaya Rd, Phaya Thai, Bangkok // Contact: 02 -247-0123, ext. 1912
‘St. Marks 1986-2006’: 6th-21st
This event features fashion designers, sourcing from first to finish, clothing, brand preference, pick & pay, exotic Asia, International & Asia power, fashion accessories, bag & carry, move on feet, material & tanning, fashion supporting and special activities, fashion shows, business matching, exhibition, Thailand Trade Mart Tour, and seminars. Trade days: March 13-15; public March 16-17
Thailand International Furniture Fair (TIFF 2013): 13th-17th
One of the biggest names in the rock music world finally comes to Bangkok with both old favorites and new songs. Tickets are Bt5,000, Bt4,000, Bt3,000, Bt2,000, and Bt1,000, available at Thaiticketmajor. Showtime is 8:30 p.m.
Big C Super Center presents Disney On Ice! Princesses and Heroes: 22nd-25th
The 34th Bangkok International Motor Show 2013: 25th-April 7th
The FCCT Contemporary World Film Series is back, with the Polish film, “Persona Non Grata,” directed by Krzysztof Zanussi as opening feature. Screening is courtesy of the Embassy of Poland. Screening time is 8 p.m. Free admission for members; non-members: Bt150.
This festival has a strong historical connection to Phuket and lately has been promoted as one of the most important events in the island. The fair lasts many days and largely consists of sporting and cultural experiences. During the festival, several things happen at the same time at other locations in Thalang District (in the north of the island) such as at Wat Pranangsang and Talang Chana Kasuk Memorial Field.
Where: Heroines Monument, Wat Pranangsang, and Talang Chana Kasuk Memorial Field, Thalang, Phuket
A three-day annual event featuring a fascinating mix of cultural, traditional, and popular entertainment. Now in its 5th year, the event brings professional artists and dancers from many different countries to form the centerpiece, and provide a beautiful spectacle of color, rhythm, movement, and harmony. The participation of the local businesses, international companies, hotels, and restaurants guarantees three days of pure enjoyment. The festival starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m.
Makha Bucha Day: 11thWhere: Three Kings Monument, Chiang Mai //Ramlah Jafri at 089-851-8059
This important religious holiday commemorates a sermon the Buddha gave to his most advanced students. Lore says this event occurred as the said followers just happened to be in the same location at the same time. Makha Bucha is celebrated each year on the first full moon of the third lunar month. Read related story on our Culture page for more details.
National Elephants Day: 13thWhere: Nationwide
Organized by Mae Sa Elephant Camp, the “National Elephant Day” celebration takes place 1- 5 p.m. Elephants have always played a dominant role in the Thai life and history and are accorded a respect and attention not found in many other countries. This festival highlights their concern and love for elephants. Admission is free.
Pattaya International Music Festival: 15th-17thWhere: Mae Sa Elephant Camp, Mae Raem, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai // Contact: 053-206-247, 053-206-248, e-mail: maesaele@loxinfo.co.th
Considered as one of the biggest international beach music festivals in Asia, the much-awaited event brings together several famous Asian and Thai artists from various musical genres to this popular beachside resort destination. Performances are scheduled on stages set separately along the beautiful beach during the three-day event.
National Muay Thai Day: 17thWhere: Separate stages from the Dolphin Roundabout to the Bali Hai pier in South Pattaya, Pattaya
Ayutthaya hosts the “Martial Arts Festival” and “Wai Khru Ceremony” this month in conjunction with the celebration of the “National Muay Thai Day.” Smaller events and ceremonies are also being held at various Thai boxing gyms and venues in Thailand in connection with the observance.
Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX): 21st-24thWhere: Ayutthaya
PIMEX must be one of the most interesting marine showcases in Asia. Last year it displayed a collection of well-known yachts from prestigious shipyards around the world including Ferretti Yachts, Sunseeker, Princess Yachts and Fairline, with an estimated value of US$250 million over the four-day event. The 10th Anniversary event will be the biggest and cover over 2,000sqm of air-conditioned exhibition space as well as up to 60 on-water display boats.
Where: Royal Phuket Marina, Kho Keaw, Phuket // Contact: Andy Dowden, Exhibition Director at e-mail: andy.dowden@informayachtgroup.com
This inaugural ‘Chiang Mai Golf Classic’ underscores the strength of the Asian Tour as it expands professional golf across the region. Organizers are assembling a collection of international stars along with the region’s elite players, led by Thai golferds Thongchai Jaidee and Thavorn Wiratchant to grace the event. Total prize of US$750,000 await winners.
Where: Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai, Chiang Mai // Contact: www.imgworld.com
Samui Fine Dining Fest: 1st-April 30thWhere: Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai, Chiang Mai // Contact: www.imgworld.com
The world on a plate – that’s how the organizers of the “3rd Samui Fine Dining Festival” is promoting this dining extravaganza, a joint effort of some of the island’s top restaurants. Participating restaurants will offer a six-course fine dining menu each day for the entire month. The festival aims to promote the island further as a holiday destination via its first class dining facilities.
‘Safe Place in the Future (?) Dystopia Now Utopia Never’: 1st-3rdWhere: Participating restaurants are Banyan Tree, Beach Republic, Chef’s Table, Dining on the Rocks, Le Jaroen, Nikki Beach, Ochos, Orgasmic, Rockpool, Sala Samui, Sui Kin Pan Asian Restaurant, The Barge Fine Dining, The Edge, The Five Islands Restaurant, The Terrace, Tree Tops and Zazen Restaurant // Contact: www.samuifinediningfestival.com
First exhibited in 2009, this art show continues to coherently emphasize the artists’ interpretation of core issues about the concept of “Safe Place.” On view every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Good Luck: 14th-20th AprilWhere: Jim Thompson Art Center, 6 Soi Kasemsan Rama 1 Rd // Contact: 02-612-6741
Chatchai Suphin, a young Thai artist, creates his paintings from his personal experience from fellowmen. His previous series entirely reflects his feeling derived from his surrounding people, love experience, and lost and sorrow experience. Chatchai’s painting interestingly conveys his uncommon sense. He owns experience of engraving which it can be obviously shown in his elaborate and meticulous paintings. Symbols in Chatchai’s painting are not used for only revealing their meaning, but explicitly indicating the emotional feeling. On view Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Tang Contemporary Arts Gallery, 919/3 Silom Galleria, 5th floor, Silom Road (Soi 19) // Contact: 02 630-3264, e-mail: bkk@tangcontemporary.com
The daughter of the late Prince and Princess Chumbhot, who established the old teakwood Suan Pakkad Palace just north of downtown Bangkok, Marsi – born in 1931 — spent most of her adult life in Europe, studying, and then teaching art history in Thailand and Spain. Her art evokes many of the great European masters. Open daily, 10am-10pm.
Where: Hall of Mirrors, Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam)
‘Suffering’: 1st-28thWhere: Hall of Mirrors, Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam)
Amrit Chusuwan employs a variety of medium and materials including found and ready-made objects, light boxes, and photography and film, while focusing on Buddhist thoughts about suffering. Works on display from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Where: DOB Hualampoing, DOB Building 2F, 318 Rama IV Rd (MRT: Hualamphong) // Contact: 085-482-3566
‘Double O Seth Goldscissors’: 1st-31stWhere: DOB Hualampoing, DOB Building 2F, 318 Rama IV Rd (MRT: Hualamphong) // Contact: 085-482-3566
Sethapong Povatong’s latest series of pop-inspired collages are layered with an array of curious imagery including those of comic book heroes, architectural wonders, consumer products, flora, and fauna. Open Tuesday to Sunday, noon-8 p.m.
Where: Art Gorillas, Lido Bldg 2F, 260 Siam Square Soi 3 (BTS: Siam Square) // Contact: 02- 658-3975; www.myspace.com/artgorillas
Vichienket Family Sculpture Exhibition: 2nd-17thWhere: Art Gorillas, Lido Bldg 2F, 260 Siam Square Soi 3 (BTS: Siam Square) // Contact: 02- 658-3975; www.myspace.com/artgorillas
This is a public showcase of amazing artworks by Thailand’s leading artist family, headed by national artist Chamruang Vichienket. Some 70 contemporary bronze sculptures and paintings honoring the philosophy that unity and harmony are the means to achieving lifelong peace will be on display. Part of the proceeds will go to the Foundation for the Blind in Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. The Queen and Art Learning Center of Baan Silpagam Vichienket. Where: City Gallery, The Sukosol Bangkok, 417 S. Ayutthaya Rd, Phaya Thai, Bangkok // Contact: 02 -247-0123, ext. 1912
American-Swedish fashion and portrait photographer Jesper Haynes displays intimate snapshots of life inside his New York apartment. The playful documentary photos, captured over a 20-year period, are presented as collages, revealing relationships the lensman experienced while living in the Big Apple’s trendy East Village. Open Monday-Tuesday, 11am-7pm, Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m.-1 a.m.
Where: Nospace Gallery, 21/108 Block D, Royal City Avenue (MRT: Phra Ram 9); www.nospacebkk.com
‘Another World, Another Boundary’: 10th-3rd AprilWhere: Nospace Gallery, 21/108 Block D, Royal City Avenue (MRT: Phra Ram 9); www.nospacebkk.com
A group of Chinese artists explores parallel realms beyond the boundaries of everyday existence. Intangible, surreal, virtual or spiritual, the seven artists propel viewers into other worlds that are borne from religious belief, computer gaming, or inner psychological examination. On display, Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
BB Forever: 1st-10thWhere: Tang Contemporary Art, Unit B-28 (Basement), Silom Galleria, 919/1 Soi 19 (BTS: Surasak) // Contact: 02-630-1114; www.tangcontemporary.com
‘BB Forever – Brigitte Bardot laq legende’ features an extensive collection of close to 30 photos, many never before seen snapshots,that trace her career of becoming one of the leading figures of the 20th century cinema and being described as a “locomotive of women’s history.”
Where: Sofitel Sukhumvit Soi 11(BTS: Nana
‘Another Side’: 13th-30th AprilWhere: Sofitel Sukhumvit Soi 11(BTS: Nana
Dreams have long provided creative impetus to artists and this group exhibition of Thai and international artists again delve into the artist’s subconscious. Celebrating the irrational and unpredictable, the 20 artworks on view resist canonical norms, creating non-linear interpretations through painting, sculpture, printmaking and photography. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-7pm.
Where: La Lanta, 245/14 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (BTS: Phrom Phong) // Contact: 02-260-5381; www.lalanta.com
‘Don’t Worry Be Lucky’: 18th-18th AprilWhere: La Lanta, 245/14 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (BTS: Phrom Phong) // Contact: 02-260-5381; www.lalanta.com
To convey his life’s journey, Chiang Mai-based Luck Maisalee uses animals and other symbols. His works are loaded with a whimsical innocence that reflects his playful personality. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’: 28th-30thWhere: Galerie N, 139/5 Wireless Rd. (MRT: Lumpini) // Contact: 02 654 0522
Thailand witness its first ever performance of Benjamin Britten’s renowned operatic adaptation of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in celebration of Britten’s birth centenary. Tickets available at Thai Ticket Major offices for Bt800 or Bt2,500 with a themed cocktail reception. Student tickets are Bt500.
‘Blithe Spirit’:14th-16th & 21st-23rdWhere: Aksra Theater, Pullman king Power Bangkok, Rangnam Road // Contact: Stefan Paul Sanchez, CEO & artistic director, Grand Opera (Thailand) at 02 652-0888, 082-51-7574; e-mail: echoopera1@googlemail.com, www.grandopera-thailand.org
Bangkok Community Theatre’s March dinner theatre production, directed by Mark Sobels, and set for performances at The British Club for six evenings. “Blithe Spirit” is a classic Coward comedy. While working on a novel about the occult, Charles Condomine decides to invite an eccentric medium, Madame Arcati, to hold a séance at his house. When the ghost of Charles’ first wife, Elvira, is inadvertently summoned, Charles second wife, Ruth, is not pleased. Magic and mayhem follow as Elvira makes herself at home! Tickets at Bt1,200 (including dinner).
‘The One Acts’: 1st-2ndWhere: British Club Bangkok, Silom Road // Contact: 087-529-3188; Email: bct.th.org@gmail.com; www.bct-th.org
“The One Acts,” present three one-act plays in one evening: “A Jolly Sinister Jape”directed By Wendy Khan; “Prince Charming’s Complaint,” directed By Doug Heron,” and “Oprah Made Me Do It” directed by Christopher T. Parsons. Ticket prices are Bt1,000 and include an all-you-can-eat gourmet Indian buffet. The two evening performances will be on March 1 and 2 (dinner buffet opens at 6:30 p.m. and show begins at 7:30 p.m.)
ThaiCraft Fair: 2ndWhere: Indian By Nature Restaurant, 306/64-68, Château Dale Plaza, Thappraya Road, Jomtien, Pattaya // Contact: www.pattayaplayers.org or e-mail pattayaplayers@gmail.com
ThaiCraft Fair will hold its first main event of 2013 on this date from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for high-quality handcrafted products direct from over 50 village artisan groups all over Thailand, from decor and furnishings to gifts, toys, accessories, bags, clothing, personal care products and much more. Create your own crafts with the ‘ThaiCraft FunShop.”
51st Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair 2013: Until 2ndWhere: The Jasmine Executive Suites Hotel on Floor ‘L’, Soi 23 Sukhumvit Rd. (BTS Asoke/MRT: Sukhumvit) // Contact: www.thaicraft.org
This premier exhibition showcases exquisite gems and jewelry from all around the world, from handcrafted, contemporary and traditional, to urban jewelry, precious and semi-precious stones. Ticket is Bt100. Trade & Public visitors: Feb. 26-28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; March 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bangkok Expo 2013: Until 3rdWhere: Challenger 1-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-630 1390/7; E-mail: info@bangkokgemsfair.com; www.bangkokgemsfair.com
Five exhibitions in one: the “Furniture Expo 2013,”Television & Electronic Expo 2013,” “Fashion, Beauty & Spa Expo 2013,” “Wedding Expo 2013,” and “Food Expo 2013.” Open 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
BIFF & BIL 2013: 13th-17thWhere: Hall 1-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact: 02-314-0855; E-mail: naamadvs@gmail.com
This event features fashion designers, sourcing from first to finish, clothing, brand preference, pick & pay, exotic Asia, International & Asia power, fashion accessories, bag & carry, move on feet, material & tanning, fashion supporting and special activities, fashion shows, business matching, exhibition, Thailand Trade Mart Tour, and seminars. Trade days: March 13-15; public March 16-17
Where: Challenger 1-2, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact: 02-507-8370; e-mail: fashionact@ditp.go.th
A grand trade fair showcasing all kinds of furniture from here and abroad, interior furnishing and accessories, materials and parts, and more. Trade days: March 13-15; Public March 16-17.
Where: Challenger 2-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-507-8363; e-mail:
tiff@ditp.go.th
Sports World Expo 2013: 15th-24thWhere: Challenger 2-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-507-8363; e-mail:
tiff@ditp.go.th
Thailand’s sporting industry showcase features local and international sporting equipment and accessories. Sports related products and services of the largest quantities of the most varieties would be on sale. Products in this promotion will comprise of new product launches, special sale items, clearance items, and loss leader items.
Santana: The Sentient Tour Concert: 6thWhere: Hall 4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact: 02-678-1000, ext.3202;
One of the biggest names in the rock music world finally comes to Bangkok with both old favorites and new songs. Tickets are Bt5,000, Bt4,000, Bt3,000, Bt2,000, and Bt1,000, available at Thaiticketmajor. Showtime is 8:30 p.m.
Where: Arena, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact: 02-262-3838
Where: Arena, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact: 02-262-3456
Dubbed as “The most innovative automotive technology works for mankind.” VIP Day: March 25, noon- 8 p.m.; Press Day: March 26, 9:59 a.m.-6 p.m.; Public: March 27-April 7.
Japanese Cooking Classes: 1st-May 30thWhere: Challenger 1-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok // Contact:02-971-6467
Dusit Thani College (DTC), in cooperation with Japan’s most prestigious culinary institute – The Tsuji Culinary Institute of Osaka – is offering an “Authentic Japanese Cuisine Courses,” open to both the public and student of DTC majoring in Culinary Arts. The 10-day course starts at 10 a.m. and last until 1 p.m. every day. Fee is Bt60,000 per person inclusive of tool kit, apron, chef’s hat, and certificate. Courses will be conducted in Thai, Japanese, and English.
Open Audition: 4thWhere: Dusit Thani College, Srinakarin Road // Contact: 02 361-7811, ext. 141-43
An open audition will be held for Linda Stockham’s play, “Divorce Sale,” by Pattaya Players. There are 10 parts (three males and seven females of flexible ages). Audition starts at 6:30 p.m. Shows are on June 14-15 at The Rattanakosin Ballroom.
BFW World Tour-Bangkok Edition: 8th-10thWhere: The Eastern Grand Palace Hotel, Pattaya // Contact: e-mail pattayaplayers@gmail.com
Get into the world of high fashion when BFW brings its world tour to Bangkok. The show starts at 4 p.m. until 11 p.m. every day for three days until March 10 only.
Le Meridien Bangkok Wedding Fair: 23rd-24thWhere: The Landmark Hotel Bangkok, 138 Sukhumvit Road (BTS: Nana) // Contact: bfw.labels.com
Le Méridien Bangkok is hosting the ‘The Wedding Fair’ this month. The hotel presents with Grand Atelier the chic and glamorous wedding venue for the once in a lifetime occasion in Bangkok, along with wedding consultants to ensure that all elements are arranged to match your expectation and to create an unforgettable celebration. Discover contemporary wedding concepts, culinary delights, stunning suite rooms, and the chance to win a honeymoon stay at Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
World Film Series: 4thWhere: Le Meridien Bangkok Patpong, Suriwongse Road // Contact: 02-232-8806 or e-mail sales.lmbkk@lemeridien.com
The FCCT Contemporary World Film Series is back, with the Polish film, “Persona Non Grata,” directed by Krzysztof Zanussi as opening feature. Screening is courtesy of the Embassy of Poland. Screening time is 8 p.m. Free admission for members; non-members: Bt150.
Where: FCCT, Penthouse, Maeeya Bldg, Chidlom (BTS: Chidlom)
A new chapter is being written for Thailand’s motorsport as the kingdom gears for the “2013 FIM Motocross World Championship Grand Prix of Thailand” (ThaiMXGP) in Sri Racha this month. Held under the auspices of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of Thailand (FMSCT), Motorcycle Sport Association of Thailand (MSAT), and in corroboration with Sport Authority of Thailand, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nonkham Sub-district Administrative Organization, and Pin Thong 3 Industrial Estate, this is the first ever Motorcross Grand Prix to be held in Thailand. Motocross World Championship is a worldwide motocross series sanctioned by the F.I.M since 1957. ThaiMXGP is the second round from 18 rounds for the 2013 season. The event is therefore considered a great leap for motorsport in Thailand and is expected to raise the racing standards in the country and allow Thai riders to step into the world-class arena. This event will be broadcast live from Thailand to 120 countries with approximately 100 million viewers. Ticket prices are Bt1,800; Bt3,500 (grandstand).
Where: Pin Thong 3 Industrial Estate, Sri Racha // Contact: Chequered Flag Motorsport Agency Ltd at 02-423-2727; www.fmsct-live.com
