Bangkok Design Week 2026 is creeping up on us. It’s hard to believe it's only a bit over two months away.
The city-wide festival returns from January 29-February 8 2026, sticking with its usual stomping grounds across eight districts: Charoen Krung-Talat Noi, Phra Nakhon, Pak Khlong Talat, Yaowarat, Bang Pho, Phrom Phong, Hua Lamphong, Bang Lamphu-Khao San and Phra Khanong-Bang Na. But there's more happening outside these core areas too, with exhibitions popping up in neighbourhoods all over town thanks to artists, studios, shops and venues that've signed on for the next year's edition.
This time round, the theme is ‘Design S/O/S’. Before you panic, it's not a cry for help. It's actually about showcasing design as a survival tool, which feels pretty apt given the state of things.
The organisers have split it into three strands. First up is ‘S’, Secure Domestic, which pushes local design to punch above its weight and give the home market a proper shake-up. Then there's ‘O’, Outreach Opportunities, all about forging new collaborations and getting Thai design onto the international stage. Finally, ‘S’, Sustainable Future asks how we're going to navigate what's coming next while keeping our heads above water.
Whether you're a design-obsessive or just fancy a wander through some of Bangkok's most atmospheric quarters, it's worth blocking out a day (or three) in late January or early February. The whole thing runs for 11 days and won't cost you a satang to get in.
Bangkok Design Week 2026, January 29-February 8. Free admission.