Chiang Mai celebrates the week before Songkran with a festival of art, music and performances, Chiang Mai Fest 2011, from Apr 8-10. The festival features local and international talent at the Three Kings Monument, in the center of town. Not-to-be-missed events include “Play with Mask” (a contemporary dance performance by Anucha Sukuma), koto artist Noriko Tsuboi, guitarist Gilbert Medam and gigs by Nantida Kaewbuasai, Lanna Cummins and Pom Boythai of Bangkok Xylophone. There will also be art exhibitions by veteran artists including Pichai Niran, Sa-Ngad Pui-Ok and Saran Suwannachot at the Chiang Mai Cultural Center during Apr 8-30. More information at www.chiangmaifest.com.