Bangkok's best Christmas markets to celebrate the year end

Bangkok can seriously be considered Asia's shopping capital, with its main attractions such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and a slew of shopping centres dotted all over the capital.

Year-end gets extra special with its pop-up markets making the tropical Christmas a glitzy and festive one.

There may not be snow in Bangkok but the fairy lights and pretty wares being sold at the markets can bring smiles and warm cheers to every visitor. Asia-City.com lists 17 fantastic year-end shopping carnivals for you to go market-hopping at if you are visiting Bangkok in December.

Most of the markets offer free entry, unless stated otherwise, and can go on until midnight - perfect if you are looking for some after-hours browsing and shopping.

One of the highly recommended stops is the Winter Market Fest #3 at Sansiri, overlooking the San Samran Bridge. According to Asia-City.com, it is probably Bangkok's closest event to a proper Christmas market.

It has a whopping six zones of food, arts and crafts, and many festive activities like performances and game prizes to be won. Visitors can also expect to be treated to musical performances by popular Thai bands like Pod Modern Dog and Nop Ponchamni at this market carnival.

With a name like The Great Outdoor Market, this is another event not to be missed.

Taking over two docks, this hipster market has live bands and DJs, and many vendors peddling beautiful handmade crafts, clothes, ornaments and more sourced from all over the region.

Another popular market to visit is the bigger and better Artbox Market held every Thursday to Sunday this December.

It features around 150 young Thai designers and also over 100 food stalls - definitely a place for you to go with your pockets full of money and your tummy empty.

wjeanne@sph.com.sg