As the monsoon rains begin to ease and Bangkok transitions toward its drier season, October 2025 promises to be a lively month filled with cultural festivals, international conferences, cutting-edge exhibitions, and blockbuster concerts. Whether you’re visiting or living in the city, here’s a curated snapshot of what to look forward to.
1. Cultural & Festival Highlights
While many of Thailand’s grandest celebrations take place outside of Bangkok, the capital still serves as a hub for those wanting to connect with the nation’s cultural pulse.
- Book Expo Thailand 2025 — From 9–19 October, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center hosts this major literary fair, drawing publishers, authors, and book lovers from across Southeast Asia. Expect panels, book signings, readings, and a bustling marketplace of Thai and international titles
- Dragon Ball Heroes Rise Asia Tour (ICONSIAM) — Running through 1 August to 19 October, this pop-culture exhibition brings together fans of the Dragon Ball franchise with immersive displays, art installations, and interactive experiences in ICONSIAM’s Attraction Hall.
- Dark Festival 2025 (Halloween-style) — Ring in the spookiest season with Bangkok’s signature “Dark Festival” from 31 October to 1 November, featuring Halloween themes, dramatic stage designs, and immersive entertainment.
Though some of the more traditional festivals (like the Rap Bua festival in Samut Prakan, or the Naga Fireball Festivalalong the Mekong) take place outside the city, they remain easy to reach as day-trips from Bangkok.
2. Music & Concerts Worth Marking
October 2025 will be a vibrant month for music lovers in Bangkok, with both domestic and international acts making their presence felt.
- BLACKPINK – Deadline Tour Asia Stop — One of the biggest draws this month is the arrival of K-pop powerhouse BLACKPINK, performing 24–26 October at Rajamangala National Stadium.
- DAY6 – 10th Anniversary Tour — On 24 October, this South Korean rock/pop band will celebrate their milestone with a show in Bangkok
- Other major music events are listed on Songkick for Bangkok in October, giving fans a chance to catch a diverse range of genres.
Keep an eye on Bangkok’s concert calendars — surprises often pop up during the month
3. Conferences & Exhibitions: Innovation & Industry
Bangkok continues to cement its reputation as a regional hub for trade, innovation, and professional exchange. October brings a series of conferences and exhibitions that attract both local and international audiences.
- Gamescom Asia + Thailand Game Show — 16–19 October at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Expect major game publishers, cosplay competitions, developer panels, and gaming activations.
- ASEAN International Optics Fair (WOF | Bangkok) — 9–11 October, this fair at the IMPACT Exhibition Center addresses optics, photonics, and precision technologies.
- WSPID 2025 (World Congress of Pediatric Infectious Diseases) — Held 28–31 October in Bangkok, this global medical congress brings together researchers, clinicians, and public health experts to explore advances in pediatric infectious disease.
- Sustainability Expo 2025 — Extending from 26 September into early October, this expo promotes green technologies, sustainable living, and eco-friendly business innovations.
- ASEAN Ceramics & ASEAN Stone — A trade show in mid-October focusing on ceramics, stones, and related industries.
Whether you’re in business, tech, or the creative sector, October’s calendar offers a lot of room to expand your network and deepen your expertise.
4. Urban Experiences & Tours
Of course, not every event is formal. Bangkok’s local tours and experiences continue year-round, and October is no exception:
- City & Temple Walking Tours — On 1 October, options include walking through Rattanakosin Island to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and local markets.
- Night-time Tuk-Tuk & Food Tours — Explore Bangkok’s glowing cityscape after dark while sampling street food and visiting landmarks on tuk-tuks.
- Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Market Tour — Departing from Bangkok, visitors can ride canals, explore floating markets, and visit local vendors.
If you come with flexible days, you may even venture to outlying cultural festivals or riverside fairs in the surrounding provinces.
5. Tips for Navigating Bangkok in October
- Weather: October is still part of the tail end of monsoon season. Afternoon downpours are possible, so carry a compact umbrella or light raincoat.
- Tickets & Advance Buys: For big concerts like BLACKPINK, shows and major exhibitions, tickets often sell fast — book in advance.
- Transportation: During festival days or concert evenings, traffic can become intense, especially near stadiums and convention centers. Use public transport or leave early.
- Hybrid Experiences: Many conferences and fairs will offer hybrid or online options — check their official websites for virtual access.
- Day-trips: With festivals happening outside Bangkok (e.g. Rap Bua, Naga Fireball), consider planning day trips or overnight stays to explore beyond the capital.
October 2025 is shaping up to be a rich blend of culture, entertainment, and innovation in Bangkok. Whether you’re immersing yourself in high-energy concerts, engaging in a trade-show, or simply wandering temple alleys on a quiet evening, there’s always something happening in the city.