Tiger Jungle Art Camp

What is it: The legends behind Chiang Mai’s raucous live music series We Are Punk take their show on the road once again, hosting another Chiang Dao Punk Fest at the end of January. And in Tiger Jungle Art Camp they’ve found the perfect venue.     Why we love it: The ferocious energy of this festival is unmatched in northern Thailand, with bands coming to play their loud and proud bangers from across the country and overseas (this years acts will blast into town from Tokyo, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, China and Germany) reminding one and all that punk knows no borders and jams with a cause will always rally community spirit. Don’t be fooled by the tough leather-clad exterior, the Chiang Mai punk scene is extremely welcoming.   The wooden ‘Nevernever Land’ structures of Tiger Art Camp are as if they were built for the event itself – playful, practical and with a DIY anarchic ethos as real as the festival punters. Short and sweet, this is a one day festival so you can get as rowdy, grubby and lit as you like, making it easy to go all out in the moshpit without peaking too soon.    Time Out tip: The following morning, treat yourself to a soak in the free hot springs around the corner to melt away the bruises and steady yourself for the drive home. Jan 30. B700 in advance, B1,000 on the door. Tiger Jungle Art Camp, Chiang Dao.

What is it: Yok Yek Party may last just one night, but given its a self-described ‘12-hour dance ritual’, we thought it just about fit the bill as one of the north’s more alternative ‘festival’ events this season. In short, it brings together eight DJs and live acts for a non-stop run through of techno, house, minimal, breaks and electro – from midnight to midday.     Why we love it: Although it’s their first event, those in the scene will recognise Nerd Party and their lineup of artists such as DJ Nobita, Chalo, DJ Casper, April and Lsyndrome. Add on the unusual hours and we’re extra curious – the party starts at midnight and continues through the night, stopping at midday the following day.    Yok Yek brings a strong regional lineup with a lush jungle setting and a serious sound system from Miki Vection, ensuring every bass beat lands exactly where it should. It’s also happening on Valentine’s Day, a perfect date night idea for that techno-head you’ve been trying to party with for the last year.    Time Out tip: This is an endurance party, not a sprint. Sure it’s in Chiang Dao but you don’t even need a hotel for this one if you plan to dance through the whole night. We recommend bringing a warm layer (it can definitely get hold in those jungles), comfy shoes and a little goodie bag of carbs, sugar and energy shots to keep you going all night long.  Feb 14. Midnight-midday the following day. B400 early bird, B800 on the door (20+ only). Tickets here. Tiger Jungle Art...