A festival of creativity, sustainability, and community. Celebrating a decade of innovation. If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai in December, make sure to include it in your itinerary—you won’t be disappointed by the vibrant creative energy and connections that await you.
Leaving Laos, I had the pleasure of attending Chiang Mai Design Week 2024 (CMDW2024), I can confidently say it was an unforgettable experience that truly encapsulated creativity, and sustainable innovation. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, CMDW2024, organised by Thailand’s Creative Economy Agency (CEA), proved once again why Chiang Mai stands as a beacon of design and cultural excellence in Southeast Asia.
A Journey Through Time: From Local Roots to International Recognition
When I first visited CMDW back in 2014, it was a modest affair, showcasing the unique blend of traditional Lanna craftsmanship and emerging modern design. Over the years the festival evolved, expanding its horizons and attracting international attention without losing its local charm.
By the time CMDW2024 rolled around, the transformation was remarkable. The festival has grown into a significant platform for creators, designers, artists, and craftsmen from around the globe. The addition of creative markets, workshops, and seminars over the years has turned Chiang Mai into a global city, recognised by UNESCO, as a creative city of crafts and folk art.
CMDW2024: Scaling Local Creativity to the Global Stage
This year’s theme, “Scaling local – creativity, technology and sustainability – for reviving recovery”, perfectly captured the essence of CMDW2024 as it still pulls together after the Covid pandemic. Held from 7-15 December across Chiang Mai’s historic districts like the Three Kings Monument, Chang Moi, and Thapae, the festival featured over 150 programmes spread across six main categories:
- Lanna Gastronomy Tourism Economy Exhibition: I indulged in delicious Lanna cuisine while learning about sustainable culinary practices that support local communities.
- Ready Set Old Exhibition: This exhibition re-imagined Chiang Mai as a “Blue Zone” city for healthy ageing, inspired by global examples like Okinawa and Sardinia.
- Super Slow Exhibition: An immersive art experience promoting mindful living and sustainability, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the vibrant festivities.
- Floral Wonders Exhibition: Witnessing the fusion of creativity and technology in the local floral industry was truly inspiring, highlighting economic growth and job creation.
- LABB.FEST 2024: The live music performances, blending Thai and international artists, were a highlight, fostering both creative and cultural exchanges across Asia.
Each category showcased the festival’s commitment to integrating creativity, technology, and sustainability, setting a benchmark for other creative events in the region. Check some more of the festival’s photos here.
Personal Highlights: Must-Experience Moments at CMDW2024
During my visit, several events stood out:
- Lanna Gastronomy Tour: Sampling traditional dishes while understanding sustainable farming practices was both delicious and enlightening. It was fascinating to see how local ingredients are transformed into gourmet delights without harming the environment.
- Super Slow Exhibition: This art experience encouraged me to slow down and appreciate the intricate details of each piece. It was a refreshing break from the fast-paced digital world, allowing me to connect deeply with the artwork and the artists behind them.
- LABB.FEST 2024: The live performances were electrifying, featuring a mix of Thai and international musicians. The energy and creativity on stage were contagious, making it a perfect evening of cultural celebration.
Sustainability at the Core of CMDW
One of the most impressive aspects of CMDW2024 was its unwavering commitment to sustainability. From reusable exhibition pavilions to recyclable materials, every event was designed with the planet in mind. I was particularly impressed by how over 95% of sign materials were replaced with recyclable options like corrugated cardboard, significantly reducing the festival’s environmental footprint.
Electric tram shuttles and bicycle services made getting around the festival grounds both eco-friendly and convenient. Additionally, the reduction of printed materials by 30% since 2020 highlighted CMDW’s dedication to minimising waste and promoting green practices.
Economic and Cultural Impact: Beyond the Festival Grounds
CMDW2024 didn’t just showcase creativity; it drove economic growth and cultural preservation. Over nine years, the festival has attracted more than 1 million attendees and generated much-needed revenue for Northern Thailand. Revitalising historic buildings and transforming them into thriving creative hubs was a testament to CMDW’s role in sustainable urban development.
The homecoming movement, encouraged by initiatives like the Homecoming Creator project, brought talented individuals from around the world back to their hometowns, reconnecting them with local communities and fostering a vibrant cultural scene.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Chiang Mai Design Week
As CMDW2024 celebrates its 10th year, the future looks brighter than ever. The festival aims to elevate its global presence by fostering collaborations among designers, artists, and entrepreneurs worldwide. Being part of the World Design Week Network, CMDW is poised to uphold international standards, strengthen global partnerships, and expand its outreach.
Plan Your Visit: Experience CMDW for Yourself
If you’re a traveller seeking a blend of culture, creativity, and sustainability, Chiang Mai Design Week is an event you shouldn’t miss. From engaging exhibitions and interactive workshops to inspiring live performances, CMDW offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a designer, artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates the power of design, CMDW promises an enriching and memorable experience. Do it like a local by renting an AirBnB and enjoy a more genuine feel of the city.
#ChiangMaiDesignWeek #CMDW2024 #ScalingLocal #SustainableDesign #CreativeEconomy #ChiangMaiCreatives #EcoFriendlyArt #GlobalDesignHub #InnovativeDesign #CulturalSustainability #ChiangMaiUnmasked
