Cicada Market, Hua Hin
Opened in October 2010, the Cicada Market in Hua Hin has become one of the area’s most popular open-air markets.
More than just a night market, this 10-rai space is a forum for local artists to exhibit and sell their work, with a weekly schedule of live entertainment that includes local bands, international acts, theater, performance art and various derivations of dance.
Located the pretty Suan Sri in the Khao Takiab area, Cicada differs from the city’s other markets, such as Chat Chai, Pae Mai or the main street’s night market. Defining itself as an ‘art market’ and offering locally made handicrafts, paintings, drawings, vintage bric-a-brac and specialty artisan items, visitors here can pick up one-off works of art, plus souvenirs, clothes and accessories by local designers.
Set in tropical gardens, the ambiance is relaxed, stylish and bohemian, with paths illuminated by lanterns and fairy lights and art installations throughout. Two indoor galleries – The Art Factory – display the works of local artists and university students, plus a rotation of touring national and international exhibitions. Visitors can buy the art on display, or have their portrait sketched by one a local artist.
The markets are divided into four sections: Art A La Mode, Cicada Art Factory, Amphitheater and Cicada Cuisine. The amphitheater offers a diverse schedule of events that encompass music, dance, theater and more. Depending on the weekend, visitors can enjoy traditional Thai dance, magic shows, comedy, international indie bands, local musicians, and b-boy and street dance competitions.
For food, Cicada Cuisine offers a picturesque garden dining area. Food vendors offer the
full range of Thai street foods, from the local specialty of khao khluk kapi – fried rice with
shrimp paste – to Pad Thai to Isaan (North Eastern) dishes. There’s also a selection of
international foods, including Italian, Japanese, Korean barbecue and Chinese. Grilled fresh
seafood here is also a specialty.
How to get there: Cicada Market is easily accessible from Hua Hin via cab or tuk tuk. It’s located in the Khao Takiab area, near Takiab Mountain, a ten-minute drive from Hua Hin Night Markets in the very center of town. It is located opposite the entrance to the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Or you can also hire a car and driver in Bangkok.
Opening times: Every Friday and Saturday 4.00 – 11.00 pm. Sunday 4.00 – 10.00 pm.
