Yaowarat and Phahurat

Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre

Opened in 1933, the theatre places a heavy emphasis on Thai dramas known as "khon" — traditional Thai dances based on Thai history and legends that take about two hours. The "khon" are mostly performed during the winter months, while other performing arts including cinema are staged throughout the year. It is best to call first to find out about which performances are on.

Take the Yaowarat and Phahurat Tour, a full day walking tour around the most interesting sights, markets and restaurants of the area.

Chinese New Year

A great time to visit Yaowarat is during Chinese New Year เทศกาลตรุษจีน, when Bangkok's Chinatown goes on steroids. Yaowarat Road will be closed to traffic as street festivities, lion dances and food fairs take place. Generally, a member of the Thai royal family comes over to celebrate among the Chinese community. Temples will be more packed than ever with many Thai-Chinese coming over to pray and burn incense. The best temples to visit this time of the year are Wat Mangkon Kamalawat and Thien Fa Foundation.

Vegetarian Festival

Another festival you might want to attend is the ten day Vegetarian Festival เทศกาลกินเจ, which is generally taking place around September or October. Many Thai-Chinese and increasingly ethnic Thai come over to Yaowarat during festival time to buy vegetarian products, such as vegetables, fruits and cooking ingredients. Most of the action happens around Wat Mangkon Kamalawat which is also more lively and in the area around Talat Noi. Look out for the yellow flags at the carts that show their meat-free status. Restaurants also adapt to the tradition, substituting meat products for soy-based products, even for traditional Thai dishes like tom yam. The most interesting festival dish are the yellow Hokkien-style noodles that are usually served with vegetables and mushrooms.

Mooncake Festival

Every year around late September or early October, the Mooncake Festival เทศกาลไหว้พระจันทร์, also known as Mid-Autumn Festival or Lantern Festival, is held in Yaowarat. Chinese families and friends gather under the full moon to pay respect to the Goddess of the Moon. Their celebratations include the eating of mooncakes and pomelos together under the light of the bright moon. Many stores in Yaowarat sell mooncakes during festival time, so you might want to try one of these sweet cakes that come in many varieties.