
A major event is being planned for this weekend in front of Central World at the Ratchaprasong Intersection. This is the heart of the shopping district in Bangkok and many of the traders here were hard hit during the recent red shirt protests. The most affected, of course, were the shops in the ZEN department store which were completely destroyed in a fire. In order to bring the smiles back to the Ratchaprasong community, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Central Pattana Public Co., Ltd., and Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association are organizing the “Smile at Ratchaprasong” this weekend. This extravaganza will feature three styles of activities representing the unique symbols of this shopping street: Music, Arts, and Shopping attractions will be featured for three consecutive days at the Central World square in front of Central World on Ratchaprasong Road from July 2 to 4, 2010.

Shopping with a Smile (10am to Midnight): Nothing does it better. Shopping brings you the happiest smile ever. Featuring the Big 4 of the shopping mall paradise around Ratchaprasong Square: Isetan, Amarin Plaza, Erawan Bangkok and Gaysorn Plaza. Irresistible discounts: Up to 80% off! Every purchase of ?1,000 gets you a lucky draw coupon to win a travel package worth ?20,000 – (100 prizes!). Don’t miss this event or your chance to shop and win a travel package.
Creative Performances, Workshops and Artistic Displays (3pm to Midnight): Good news for those who miss the creative products available at the handmade crafts market in front of the Central World. Come on down to the SMILE Market: the market for creative handmade products. For those who crave for inspiration, come join the brilliant “SMILE Live” artistic drawing event. Watch a graphic drawing battle between The Spanky’s vs Smile Street performers, including awesome B-Boy & B-Girl dancing shows from AKA gang!
3 Smiles Music Festival: Over the three evenings, there will be numerous top acts entertaining the crowd with three distinct flavours. Starting on Friday with “Smile Chill”, on Saturday night there is “Smile Indie” and finally on Sunday night there is “Smile Dance”. You can find more information about this event at the Smile at Ratchaprasong website. Also check out the photo contests on the website where you have an opportunity to win some great prizes. I will be going on Saturday so maybe see you there!