Did you know that there’s one weekend each year when being transported to the bustling streets of Bangkok doesn’t require a long-haul flight and big wad of spending money? A trusty Tube ride will do the trick, as a huge Thai festival lands in the capital city once a year, kindly bringing the sounds, smells, tastes and traditions of Thailand straight to London’s door-step. And – you guessed it – that particular weekend is just around the corner.
June 27 – June 29 are the dates to mark in your calendars, folks. So, cancel your plans and make a bee-line straight to Coal Drops Yard where you’ll be able to experience a huge celebration of Thai culture. Without having to pay a penny…
In honour of the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the UK; this year’s festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before. From food stalls and film screenings to performances and pop-up shops; you’ll be able to sip, snack and saunter your way through the festival for three days straight; trying to convince yourself that you’ve jetted off to a tropical paradise when in actual fact, you haven’t even left Zone 1.
The free-to-enter event will immerse Londoners in the very best of Thai culture, cuisine, and creativity. This year’s theme is ‘Timeless Creativity’ and will shine a light on the country’s seamless blend of rich heritage and innovative spirit.
Inside the Thailand Showcase festival
So, let’s start with the food (as I often do). Festival-goers will have the chance to sink their teeth into some of Thailand’s tastiest treats, courtesy of London’s top Thai restaurants. Authentic, high-quality, and down-right delicious delicacies will be served up by the likes of Farang London, Dang’s by Slurp, Patara and Greyhound Café. And keen cooks will have the chance to learn some tricks of the trade with some live demonstrations.
The festival won’t just be a treat for your stomach, though. It will be an utter feast for your eyes and ears, as well. Expect to see some incredible traditional Thai dance, music and theatre performances and some captivating outdoor film screenings (complete with exclusive Q&A sessions with beloved Thai actors). Bustling market stalls and exhibits will be selling everything from sustainable fashion to home furnishings. And there will even be a ‘Discover Thailand’ zone for visitors to partake in interactive experiences and enter a daily raffle for the chance to win return flights and luxury stays in Thailand. Don’t mind if I do…
Now, I know what you’re thinking – that seems like a whole lot to get through in just three days, right? And you’d be absolutely correct, so you’ll need to use your Thai-m very wisely.
Thailand Showcase is completely free to attend and will be taking over Lewis Cubitt Square in Coal Drops Yard on June 27 (12pm-8pm), June 28 (11am-6pm), and June 29 (11am-6pm).