There seems to be one or two weekend markets in almost every town and city in Thailand, especially the more touristy ones. Chaing Mai, as the main spot where visitors like to stay because of its relaxing atmosphere compared with Bangkok which is more crowded and hotter. It has many evening markets scattered inside the old town and the surrounding area such as Night Bazar. But, the 2 more interesting ones are only happen on weekend.
On Saturday the evening market is Wualai walking street, located on the small Wualai Street. Another one is bigger and is located inside the old town, Sunday walking street. They both are different from others because they are focused on selling handicrafts and colorful handmade products; woodworks, silverwares, paper lanterns and umbrellas, herbal soaps and shampoo, paintings, handmade journals, traditional cloths, natural fabrics made locally, etc. The products in these places for are perfect to purchase as souvenirs for friends and families back at home.
It could be quite crowded having to sometimes squeeze among people because everyone wants to go there but at the same time it is very colorful and still have the relaxed feeling because it gets a lot cooler in the evening. More than that, there are street performers in different parts of the streets make the markets livelier. Some perform traditional music and dance whereas some modern like music bands. There are also bands played by blind young people too.
Food is abundant! Yes, Thailand is known for its amazing cuisines. You can walk around buy bit of the food here and there and try, it is very fun, fill the stomach, and cheap. Most of them are newly cooked so you will not be likely to get stomach upset. Thailand doesn’t have only paadthai so trying different types of food at these markets can be the educational experience as well.
Another very common thing found at the markets is traditional Thai massage. Chairs and mattresses are put just at the side of the streets easy for tourists to stop and get either foot or body massages. It usually costs between 150-200 baht (around 5-7 usd) per hour, which is super cheap. Walking around could make one’s feet sore or start to have sore muscles so why not get an hour massage then?
So, if you happen to arrive and stay at Chiang Mai on Saturday and Sunday, it is worth sparing time in the evening and explores one of these markets and you will love it!