The best things to do in Chiang Mai this weekend (Sep 18-21)

Let your imagination soar this weekend as the city celebrates fantastic cinema in all facets – be it international classics, locally made short films or something even more weird and wonderful. From surreal to sci-fi, horror to fantasy, experience world-class cinema alongside outstanding short films from Thai and international youth filmmakers over the next week at venues across the city. From pop-up showings to mini cinemas and Major IMAX theatres, the city is filled with film and you’re cordially invited.

Sep 20-27. Ticketed shows, more details here. Various locations. Various times.

Calling all Spartan race warriors – this free community workout at Training Box Chiang Mai brings together competitors and fitness enthusiasts to get ready for the famous obstacle race later this month. Training includes obstacle course techniques, motivational drills and expert tips from Spartan brand ambassadors. Expect sweat, grit and plenty of team spirit at the workout that’ll no doubt convert into competitive drive. 

Sep 20. Free. Registration required here. Training Box Chiang Mai – New Born. 9am-11am. 

Chiang Mai’s most paw-some party of the month is finally here, with two evenings dedicated to pets and their people. Whether your little friend has four feet or none, bring them along and enjoy activities, talks and plenty of tail-wagging fun. Aside from the festive, exotic offerings, there are also free health check-ups for cats and dogs courtesy of Cozy & Care Pet Hospital, as well as talks on special care and even a beautiful smile dog contest – so be sure to brush those gnashers before you arrive.

Sep 18-19. Free. Jing Jai Market. 4pm-8pm. 

The Comedy Club Bangkok is back in the north again, this time bringing along with them the internationally renowned comedian Ahmed Ahmed for one night only. With more than 30 years on the circuit – from Netflix and Showtime specials to the groundbreaking Axis of Evil Comedy Tour that drew over 20,000 people and aired on Comedy Central – Ahmed delivers razor-sharp laughs with global flair. Needless to say, comedy in Chiang Mai is here to stay. 

Sep 20. B600-900. Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. 8pm onwards.

Creativity takes centre stage as Addict Art Studio transforms into a hub of workshops, live music and pop-up art experiences – all in the name of supporting children’s right to education. From linocut printing and collage-making to stencil art and live painting, the programme is packed with opportunities to learn, play and create. Alongside the hands-on fun, expect a mini craft market, experimental live sets and performances from local and international artists. Proceeds from the weekend go towards improving learning environments and providing resources for kids in remote areas.

Sep 20. B20 entry, donations welcome. Addict Art Studio. 2pm-10.30pm

Join Red Box as they team up with Blackbird Wines for an evening of fine vintages and contemporary Thai gastronomy. Treat yourself to a six-course tasting menu where every dish is thoughtfully paired to bring out the character of each pour. Blackbird Wines – a boutique Napa Valley producer celebrated for its Bordeaux-inspired blends – brings a touch of California craftsmanship to the glass, while Red Box chefs work their magic with food.

Sep 20. B4,500 per person (six-course menu with wine pairings). Red Box. 6.30pm onwards.

Love it or hate it, the star of InterCon’s afternoon tea this month is the Jackfruit. Smelly, strong but devilishly versatile, who knew this tropical fruit could be so chic? All September long, sample this Thai twist on the classic afternoon tea with servings of sweet and savoury bites inspired by the golden-hued fruit. Tea and coffee are included but add a bit of bubble to proceedings with a sparkling glass of prosecco. It is the weekend after all.  

1-30 Sep. B950 per person (B1,150 with a glass of prosecco). KAM Lobby Lounge, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping. 

Anantara Chiang Mai transforms its historic teak mansion into a hub of creativity this September with Artistry in Bloom – a month-long program featuring free live concerts from young classical musicians from Prem International School. Enjoy the ‘Whispers of the East’ afternoon tea where you can paint your own edible canvas, and ‘MĀEYE: The Eye That Sees with Love’, a moving exhibition by artist Hom Nguyen exploring the bond between mother and child. 

Sep 6-30 (concerts Sep 6 and 13). Free, schedule here. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.

What if your identity wasn’t based on what you buy – but what you grow, share and co-create? That’s the guiding question behind this immersive course, hosted jointly by the Pun Pun community in Mae Taeng and the indigenous P’gakenyoa people of Hin Lad Nai, Chiang Rai. Across two sacred sites, explore what it means to reconnect with the land, the self and each other through ancestral practices, community rituals and ecological living.  This in-depth course offers hands-on learning for topics such as seed saving, wild foraging, traditional farming, organic cooking and even forest beekeeping. A rare collaboration between two inspiring communities offers a chance to slow down, go deep and reimagine what natural life could be.

June 6-11 and Nov 2-7. B12,000, email [email protected] for registration. Pun Pun Organic Farm and Learning Centre.