What’s up in May
Commemorates the coronation of the present monarch, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the longest reigning living monarch in the world today. Because the holiday occurs on a Sunday, the following day is a holiday.Where: Nationwide // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
National Events and Festivals
May Inthakin City Pillar Festival
The “Inthakin City Pillar Festival” takes place over the course of six days each year in Chiang Mai. The final date for the 2013 event has yet to be given as of this writing but it usually occurs at some point around the waning of moon of the sixth lunar month (May).
Where: Chiang Mai // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
3rd-7th: Top of the Gulf Regatta 2013Where: Chiang Mai // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
After a very successful and record-breaking “8th Top of the Gulf Regatta,” organizers are looking forward to a bigger and better raceweek this year. Last year, the regatta “exploded” with very competitive 40 footers that provided a breathtaking race.Where: Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya// Contact: www.topofthegulfregatta.com
The fair features contests of fruit decorated floats, beauty queens, famous fruits such as rambutan, durian, mangosteen, Rakam and Sala zalaccas, varieties of santol and Thai ridgeback dog, as well as booth displays of gems and jewelry and other farmer housewife groups.
Where: The Triangular Na Choei Ground, Pattaya
4th-13th: Chanthaburi Fruit Festival (4 May 2013 - 13 May 2013)Where: The Triangular Na Choei Ground, Pattaya
The Chanthaburi fruit festival takes place at a time of the year when the abundent fruit crops are at their best. Chanthaburi offers a fantastic selection of fruits to try, including sweet rambutans, pomelos and the unusual durian fruit. There are prizes during the festival for such things as the best fruit display and the best tasting fruit and there is a full entertainment program on offer too.Visitors can enjoy the festival and the fruit that has been grown in the “fruit bowl of Thailand.”
Where: Chantaburi
Ban Bung Fai – the Isan Rocket Festival — is celebrated in a number of locations in Northeast Thailand (isan) and especially in Yasothon, where it is held with incomparable festivities.Where: Yasothon and other Isan provinces // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
An annual ceremony held to predict the abundance of food production and average supply of water for the coming rice growing season.Where: Sanam Luang, Bangkok // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
The most important of all the Buddhist festivals in Thailand, “Visaka Bucha Day” takes place on the full moon of the sixth lunar month. It commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death.Where: Nationwide // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672
Participants can choose to join the SailQuest yacht for the 210 nautical mile voyage from our SailQuest Ocean Marina (Pattaya) location to the Samui based event or you can make your own way to Koh Samui and join the SailQuest team for the regatta event (May 27 – June 1). The Samui Regatta event combines water racing with some amazing onshore parties and prize giving ceremonies.
Where: Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui // Contact: www.samuiregatta.com
Where: Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui // Contact: www.samuiregatta.com
Arts & Culture
1st-3rd: The Garden If Mine
Large-scale paintings by Nat Posila, including gigantic flowers, butterflies, and more, will be on display. On view from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd, Bangkok
This art show features 19 artists whose works give a sense of immersion into the visual culture, engaging with the pervasive influence of Internet culture and contemporary visual reproduction.Where: Bangkok Art & Culture Center, Wang Mai, Pathumwan, Bangkok // Contact: 02-214-663
Painting exhibition featuring two of the most recognized names in the local arts community: Elizabeth Romhild and Sumet Jumsai na Ayudhya. The exhibition juxtaposes the unique self-expression styles of two artists: one an academically trained Asian male architect whose take in art is structural and masculine, the other, a self-taught European female painter who expresses emotion through the visuals of femininity. By juxtaposing their artworks,the exhibition explores the trait differences of their creators but also embraces the common features apparent in their works. On view from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Where: La Lanta Fine Art, 245/14 Sukhumvit Soi 31 // Contact: 02-204-0583 or 02-260-5381; e-mail: info@lalanta.com
A collection of more than 80 photos of China’s natural wonders — including the magnificent Forbidden City, the Potala Palace in Tibet, and the Himalaya Mountains – is on display at the outdoor arena. Admission is free.Where: Central World, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd (BTS: Chidlom)
The longest running Broadway show in history, having completed 25 years and 10,400 shows this year is presented by BEC Tero and Scenario, the top Thai musical theatre company. Based on a story ‘Le Fantome De L’Opera” by French writer Gaston Leroux, ‘Phantom’ was first made into a silent film in 1925 but hit the world headlines as a stage-musical in 1986, with outstanding music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; and Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman playing the lead-roles. The Times called it ‘God’s Gift to Musical Theatre.’ The present production is on a world-tour of several countries, including Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Taiwan in Asia.Where: Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre, Bangkok
Inspired by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s speech about Thai orchids and elephant conservation, Siam Paragon is organizing the “7th Siam Paragon Bangkok Royal Orchid Paradise 2013.” The event takes place June 6 -12 at the Siam Paragon (BTS Siam Square).This year marks the 7th anniversary of the event, dubbed as the largest orchid exhibition in Thailand, which Siam Paragon hosts in collaboration with public and private organizations. It features a special orchid arrangement in the theme of “The Miracle of Orchid: Conserve Orchid, Preserve Elephant” — a giant elephant made from Rhynchostylis orchids. The floral statue’s grand pieces of armor will be on display at the botanical space on the mall’s M floor.
The event will also feature orchid competitions with over 120 species of orchids competing for the HRH Princess Sirindhorn Cup. A certificate will be awarded to the most beautiful orchid. There will also be exhibitions of award-winning orchids and other orchid-arranging activities. Orchids and gardening toolswill be on sale.
A must attend event of the year for orchid lovers, “7th Siam Paragon Bangkok Royal Orchid Paradise 2013” is opened to all. Admission is free.
Where: Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam Square)
Until June 2nd: Tim Hetherington: Infidel
This photo and video exhibition by Tim Hetherington (1970-2011) features some of the artist’s best work including photographs taken in Afghanistan, those published in the book, “Infidel,” and those featured in two films. Open: 4-10 p.m., Tues-Sun.
Where: WTF Cafe & Gallery, #7, Sukhumvit Soi 51 (BTS: Thonglor)// Tel: 02-662-6246; e-mail: somrak@wtfbangkok.com
Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month: German Film Series 2013
Goethe Institute Thailand presents some of the best German movies in this film series, scheduled every second Tuesday of the month from 6 p.m. onwards. Film showings in English subtitles.
Where: Bangkok Art & Cultural Center, Rachathevi Road (BTS: National Stadium)
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the NCC Exhibition Organizers (NEO), is organizing the “Bangkok Bike 2013,” the exhibition of its kind in the country, it is designed to promote the use of bicycles for both recreational and regular use and enhance the popularity of cycling tours for both local and foreign visitors. Some 170,000 people are expected to attend the four-day event. There will be displays and sale of bicycles, bike parts, and accessories of all kinds, demonstrations of Biker Style (fashion, clothing, and accessories for cyclists); gadgets and cameras for cyclists as well as introduction of Bike Trips (hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions, and groups of cyclists). Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Exhibition Hall 4, Impact Muang Thong Thani // Contact: www.bangkokbikeexpo.net
9th-11th: Horti ASIA 2013
Exhibition that aims to support and promote all aspects of Thai tourism and will offer a vast array of tour packages, accommodations as well as golf & diving products and services.
Where: Plenary Hall 1-3, Meeting Room 1-2, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.thailanddiveexpo.com
22nd-26th: THAIFEX-World of Food Asia 2013
This photo and video exhibition by Tim Hetherington (1970-2011) features some of the artist’s best work including photographs taken in Afghanistan, those published in the book, “Infidel,” and those featured in two films. Open: 4-10 p.m., Tues-Sun.Where: WTF Cafe & Gallery, #7, Sukhumvit Soi 51 (BTS: Thonglor)// Tel: 02-662-6246; e-mail: somrak@wtfbangkok.com
Goethe Institute Thailand presents some of the best German movies in this film series, scheduled every second Tuesday of the month from 6 p.m. onwards. Film showings in English subtitles.Where: Bangkok Art & Cultural Center, Rachathevi Road (BTS: National Stadium)
Trade Fairs & Shows
1st-6th: Power Buy Expo 2013
The last week to enjoy the grand showcase of state-of-the-art electronic appliances and IT products to complement the modern, trendy lifestyle. Get more special privileges, plus discount and promotion from over 200 leading brands.
Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-904-2000: www.powerbuy.co.th
2nd-5th: International Innovative Crafts Fairs (IICF 2013)Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-904-2000: www.powerbuy.co.th
The International Innovative Crafts Fairs spotlights materials from every part of Thailand, which can be adapted into a craft. IICF also provides a seminar with foreign experts to help event visitors gain more related knowledge.
Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 036-705-4050; www.sacict.net
2nd-5th: Bangkok Bike 2013Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 036-705-4050; www.sacict.net
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the NCC Exhibition Organizers (NEO), is organizing the “Bangkok Bike 2013,” the exhibition of its kind in the country, it is designed to promote the use of bicycles for both recreational and regular use and enhance the popularity of cycling tours for both local and foreign visitors. Some 170,000 people are expected to attend the four-day event. There will be displays and sale of bicycles, bike parts, and accessories of all kinds, demonstrations of Biker Style (fashion, clothing, and accessories for cyclists); gadgets and cameras for cyclists as well as introduction of Bike Trips (hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions, and groups of cyclists). Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Where: Exhibition Hall 4, Impact Muang Thong Thani // Contact: www.bangkokbikeexpo.net
This international tradeshow focusing on the horticultural and floricultural production and processing technology industry is organized by VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Open to trade May 9-19 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and public on May 11 (10 a.m-4 p.m.).
Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-670-0900; e-mail: hortiasia@vnuexhibitionsap
9th-12th: House and Condo Show #28Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-670-0900; e-mail: hortiasia@vnuexhibitionsap
A house condo festival organized by The Thai Real Estate Association, in conjunction with the Housing Business Association and the Thai Condominium Association, the most comprehensive residential property fair.
Where: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.housecondoshow.com
16th-19th: Thailand Travel and Dive Expo 2013 Where: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.housecondoshow.com
Exhibition that aims to support and promote all aspects of Thai tourism and will offer a vast array of tour packages, accommodations as well as golf & diving products and services.Where: Plenary Hall 1-3, Meeting Room 1-2, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.thailanddiveexpo.com
A grand exhibition for the Asian food industry, THAIFEX 2013 features Halal Food, Food Technology, Food Catering, and Hospitality Services and Retail and Franchise. Also a chance to get in touch with exhibitors: local and overseas manufacturers, exporters, importers, agents, distributor and service providers; and visitors: food importers, wholesalers, distributors, food manufacturers and processors, supermarkets, department stores, grocery stores; fast-food, hotel and restaurant chains, and many related industries from around the world. Open to trade: May 22-24 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.) and the public on May 25-25 (10 a.m.-8 p.m.).
Where: IMPACT, Nonthaburi // Contact: www.thailandfoodfair.com
23rd-26th: Shopping Paradise Fair 2013Where: IMPACT, Nonthaburi // Contact: www.thailandfoodfair.com
If you are interested in fashion and leathers, beauty and health, gift and decorative items, gadgets, house ware, electronics, and related products, this one is for you.
Where: Zone C Ground Level, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.mac-exhibition.com
Where: Zone C Ground Level, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.mac-exhibition.com
SHOOT-OUT AT WADALA, Directed by Sanjay Gupta, May 3 — An action-packed crime drama, which is a sequel to the much-talked-about gangster film of 2007, “Shootout at Lokhandwala,” and is based on the book Dongri to Dubai by Hussain Zaidi. Like the earlier film, this story is also based on the real-life encounter between Mumbai’s police force and its notorious mafia. Stars John Abraham and Kangana Ranaut www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG0NeRQext4
AURANGZEB, Directed by Atul Sabharwal, May 17 — A classic Bollywood story of crime, action, songs ,and the old formula of double-roles. It centers around Yashvardhan,a real estate agent known for his illegal works, and his handy-man Ajay. Talented actor Arjun Kapoor (son of famous producer-director Boney Kapoor) plays the double-role of Ajay and Vishal, while the superstar of the Southern Malayalam cinema Prithviraj, plays the lead. www.youtube.com/watch?v=80vj5eWL_-A
YEH JAAWANI HAI DEEWANI, Directed by Ayan Mukerji, May 31 — This is the ultimate Bollywood song-dance-romance extravaganza ,which is one of the most looked- forward- to films of the year, as it stars the super-star pair of Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone,who were once a real-life ‘couple’. They play the romantic lead in a film that was lavishly shot in Kashmir, Paris and other places. The song-dance sequences are one of the highlights of the film, including a special number created by Bollywood’s best-known chorographer Farah Khan, with the lead-actor, and the Bollywood dance-queen of yesteryear, Madhuri Dixit. www.youtube.com/watch?v=9o1rWMtfPsc
The Indian films will play, for a limited run, at Major Cineplex Ekamai, and Major Cineplex, Rama 3.
For details, check – www.majorcineplex.com/indianmovie
