If you’re looking for free things to do in Bangkok, then a trip to Lumphini Park should be on the list. And if you can make it there on a Sunday during the cool season months, you have the added bonus of witnessing the brilliant Bangkok Symphony Orchestra performing the ‘Concert in the Park‘.
*Update: New Venue at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park
From January 2019 there will be a change of venue. The concerts will be held at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park. Entrance remains free with the music scheduled to start from 5.30pm on concert nights.
Map showing new location
The free concert is performed by the orchestra at the pavilion known as Sala Bhirom Bakdi in the middle of *Lumphini Park. Bring a mat, a picnic (alcohol prohibited) and relax and enjoy the free entertainment as the band work through a varied repertoire of classical favourites, Broadway show-tunes and easy-listening music.
If, like me, you don’t consider yourself a fan of classical music, don’t be put off. It’s a wonderful, informal atmosphere with the concert attended by a mix of people of all age groups. Families with young children, older couples and groups of friends all come together to enjoy the evening of entertainment. There is something special about listening to quality live music performed in the open air. And with the Bangkok skyline as a backdrop, the gentle lilt of palm trees and the balmy evening air, ‘Concert in the Park’ makes for a memorable evening.
Performance starts at 5.30pm and continues until around 7pm. There is a wide expanse of grass in front of the pavilion which provides good views, but arrive early if you want a spot on the lawn near the front. There are some park benches near the pavilion where you can sit and listen to the music, but you won’t have the best of views. The ‘Concert in the Park’ season usually starts in December and continues on most Sundays through to the end of February.
Check the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra website for more details and for any changes to the scheduled programme.
*Update: New Venue at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park
From January 2019 there will be a change of venue. The concerts will be held at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park. Entrance remains free with the music scheduled to start from 5.30pm on concert nights.
Map showing new location
Bangkok Lights Up for the Festive Period
