Wonderfruit Festival Launches In Thailand This December

You probably know a few people who’ve been travelling in Thailand. They loved the food, the weather, the constant smiling faces of the people, the dubious whisky… and other substances that R$N, of course, would know nothing about (apart from that Tonka, who will ingest anything not put into a child-proof container) but very often, you’ll hear that the music left a lot to be desired. Well, that it’s a load of pop shit, anyway. It’s lowest common denominator stuff because that’s not what most people are after on their trip East. But the Wonderfruit Festival, which launches on 19-21^st December in Chon Buri, Thailand, is all about offering something a cut above all that.

Quality music seems to be very badly represented in the region, but Wonderfruit aims to change all that with a line-up that includes live performances from Hercules & Love Affair, Nick Mulvey, Seth Troxler and Fat Freddy’s Drop.

Taking place just 80 kilometres from Bangkok, on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Wonderfuit hopes to offer a wide range of music and also boutique food, art, theatre, talks, workshops and outdoor pursuits, as well as some great music. There will even be some ‘eco-farming’ going on, which we’ve never seen at a festival before. Well, maybe something hydroponic, on occasion…

In any case, though, it’s fair to say it’s not aiming to be the usual nihilistic gurn-fest. In the words of two of Wonderfruit’s founders (who own Scratch), Pete Phornprapha and Montonn Jira, ‘Since we own the land, we will be creating some permanent sustainable models for the festival, and the experience as a whole, to serve as an advocate for eco-friendly and sustainable ways. We want to help people understand that social responsibility and enterprising shouldn't be viewed separately. Part of the proceeds will be used to create opportunities to ignite the movement throughout the year and not only at the festival. It is a long-term goal and this is just the start.

 ‘We are working with the best people in all relevant fields to make sure that the programme is developed properly over the years to better impact lives and values in society. And of course to celebrate and have fun.’

 Manu Ekanayake