Things To Do In Bangkok In June 2023
Pride Month is set to be one of the biggest celebrations of the year for Bangkok. Following the victory for Thailand’s progressives, marriage equality is once again on the table. Not only that, but Bangkok is also preparing its bid to host World Pride 2028, so this year’s Pride Month is sure to be extra special. You won’t want to miss out on the celebrations this June.
With that in mind, here are 7 things to do in Bangkok during Pride Month.
1. Tinder’s Singles Flea Market
Image credit: Supanut Arunoprayote via Wikimedia Commons
Thai record label SPICYDISC is partnering up with Tinder to organise the Talad Sode Made With Pride at centralwOrld.
This event’s Thai name is a pun. Instead of being called talad sod (ตลาดสด) meaning flea market, it is called talad sode (ตลาดโสด, a long vowel on the o) which means singles market.
This isn’t the first time Tinder has hosted an event for singles at centralwOrld as the mall’s Ganesha Shrine is famous for its romantic powers. So whether you’re single or just wanting to mingle, this market will feature food, fashion products, live music, and even horoscope readings with booths from the Bangkok LBGTQIA+ community.
Date: 1-4 June 2023
Time: 3pm-10pm
Address: Square C-D, centralwOrld, 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
2. Explore Thai gender and sexuality through art
Image credit: Noir-นัว Art Thesis
Sexuality is long seen as a sensitive and rather taboo subject in Thai society. This notion, however, is being challenged by Thailand’s increasingly progressive youth, especially artists.
Gender is a solo exhibition by Thai artist Suchitra Saengphuk that offers criticisms of Thai norms that have resulted in gender inequality and glass ceilings.
If you want a quiet and contemplative exploration of gender in Thai society, then this exhibit will give you something to think about.
Date: 1 June-1 July 2023
Time: 10am-8pm, closed Mondays
Address: People’s Gallery P2 Room, 2nd Floor, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Contact: +66 2214 6630
3. Discover the unseen experiences of third-gendered individuals in Thailand
Image credit: Bualuang 101
Thai gender identities are commonly seen but often poorly understood by the general public. Thai artist Thanaphon Dathumma wants to tear down this wall. Their exhibit, The Happiness on Fabric and Gender Society, shows the public a glimpse into the hidden experiences of the third gender in Thai society.
Thanaphon uses fabric and embroidery to tell personal stories from third-gendered individuals in Thailand. The materials used are feathers, fabrics, artificial diamonds, and beads that are commonly used in cabarets and mor-lam shows that typically feature these individuals.
Date: 1 June-2 July 2023
Time: 10am-8pm, closed Mondays
Address: People’s Gallery P3 Room, 2nd Floor, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Contact: +66 2214 6630
4. Riverside bar party with sensual singer Aof Pongsak
Image credit: @aofpongsak via Instagram
If you’re looking for a party at a trendy riverside bar, then you’d be happy to know that Lost and Found is organising Pride Month with Aof Pongsak on 2 June 2023.
You’ll get to experience one of Thailand’s most iconic voices at a 3rd-floor bar in Riverside Plaza. Singer Aof Pongsak, who came out as gay in 2013, is well-known for his soft voice and romantic songs. Prepare for a romantic evening out with emotional songs and riverside vibes.
You can find tickets to this musical party here. Prices are ฿950 or ฿1200 at the door, which includes a complimentary drink.
Date: 2 June 2023
Time: 8pm
Address: 3rd floor, Riverside Plaza Bangkok, 257 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Samre, Thon Buri, Bangkok 10160
Contact: +66 2431 9475
5. Go “Beyond Gender” at the annual Pride Parade
Image credit: @seeieu via Instagram
The Bangkok Pride Parade is possibly the marquee event of the month. This year’s theme, Beyond Gender, is about advocating for tolerance beyond the gender binary.
The parade will begin at the Pathum Wan intersection in front of the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre and MBK. Then, it will proceed down Rama 1 Road passing through the Siam district until finally ending at centralwOrld.
Whether you’re a member of the community wanting to express yourself or an ally wanting to support, everyone is welcome.
Date: 4 June 2023
Time: 2pm
Address: 939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
6. High octane dance party on a Chao Phraya cruise
Image credit: @mimaomusic via Instagram
You’re going to want to get in some aerobics before this boat party. The Pride Cruise will be a night party on a cruise along the Chao Phraya.
The party will feature a Drag Queen Show, aerial performances, karaoke, and a bunch of dance sessions that will absolutely leave you exhausted.
Put on your best “Feather Fancy” outfit, then bring the energy to the party.
There will be two parties: one on Friday night and one on Saturday night. Tickets are ฿800 per person for one night and ฿1,200 for two nights. This price includes a complimentary drink.
To pay, you’ll have to transfer money to Siam Commercial Bank account 186-230879-7 then notify the organisers Bangkok Island through their Facebook, Instagram, or through email.
Date: 9-10 June 2023
Time: Check-in at 6pm, Cruise from 7pm-11pm
Address: opposite the Post office, Saphan Phut Rd, Khwaeng Wang Burapha Phirom, Khet Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Contact: +66 8 8022 0666
7. Celebrate diverse genders at this party featuring DJ Rattana from Polycat
Image credit: @napolycat via Instagram
Celebrate all gender identities outside the binary at this party featuring DJ Rattana of popular Thai synth-pop band, Polycat.
Pride Night: GENDERLESS PARTY will be held at the Oriental Residence on 9th June. Remember to dress your fabulous best because the 3 best outfits will be rewarded prizes.
Tickets are ฿1,800 for the standing tickets and ฿2,200 for the seated tickets. Tickets can be found here.
Date: 9 June 2023
Time: 6:30pm onwards
Address: Oriental Room, Oriental Residence Bangkok, Saffron Collection, 110 Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Contact: +66 2125 9000
Celebrate Pride Month in Bangkok
Despite the sizzling heat and freak rainstorms, June is set to be a very hopeful month in Bangkok. So let’s get out there to celebrate, advocate, and have fun while doing so.
You could also look to travel outside of Bangkok to escape the heat by using trains with help from our guide here, or this one for buses. Alternatively, if you can’t get enough of the heat then you might want to check out Thailand’s historical parks here.
Cover image adapted from Noir-นัว Art Thesis, @seeieu via Instagram, @mimaomusic via Instagram, and @napolycat via Instagram