Hua Hin is among the most popular destinations in Thailand for its beaches and nightlife. However, since most people focus on the beaches, bars and shopping malls, they may not know that there are many night markets or pedestrian streets that are also worth a visit. And Cicada Market is an excellent recommendation, especially for those who consider themselves foodies.

History

Cicada is short for “Community of Identity Culture Arts & Dynamic Activities” and you can call it the “Art” market if you like because everything you see here is beautiful and many artisans sell their crafts. Cicada Market is founded as a way to connect artists, creators, designers, tourists, students and the community by integrating culture and the arts into lifestyles.

As an art market with Hua Hin atmosphere, Cicada Market is a source of contemporary art in various fields, including the invention of handmade decorative objects, fashionable clothes, collective second-hand items and SME products with innovative ideas to display and sell outdoors. Also, open your eyes and open your mind with creative activities, workshops and exhibits such as performances, dance, music, university fine arts, community theater and various artists.

Location

Cicada Market is located next to the main street of Hua Hin, Phetchkasem Road or Hua Hin Khao Takiab Road. This is the main street of the Cicada Market that runs through the city. It splits into two roads at its southern end – one part turns right, heading south, and the other part (left), leads to the Khao Takiab district. This is the place to go. Once you have passed the sign “Khao Takiab”, you will have to go straight for approximately 500 meters and you will arrive at the Cicada Market!

Opening Hours

Cicada Market is only open on weekends, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

• Friday and Sarturday: 4pm -11pm
• Sunday: 4pm – 10pm

Visitors should be aware that the market can become quite busy, particularly during Thai National Holidays.

How to get there

Cicada Market is about 6 kilometers south of the center of Hua Hin town. You can pick one of some ways to get there:

• By Songthaew: Songthaews are shared taxis that run on fixed routes. Look for a Songthaew with a sign that says “Cicada Market” or “Tamarind Market” and hop on. The fare is around 20-30 baht per person. The Songthaews usually run until midnight.
• By Tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Hua Hin. Negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in. The fare should be around 150-200 baht one way, but it depends on your bargaining skills.
• By Bicycle: You can rent a bicycle in Hua Hin town for around 50-100 baht per day and cycle to Cicada Market. It’s a flat and straightforward route, and you can enjoy the sea breeze along the way.
• By Car or Motorbike: You can rent a car or motorbike in Hua Hin town and drive to Cicada Market. The journey takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There’s ample parking available at the market for a fee.

Structure of Cicada Market

Cicada Market is divided into 4 zones : Art A La Mode, Cicada Art Factory, Amphitheater and Cicada Cuisine.

Art A La Mode

Visitors can peruse a variety of wares sold by art and craft vendors along the paths of the site. These vendors offer a range of items, including clothing, handmade bags, fashion accessories, souvenirs, crafts, used items, and cards. Most of the vendors are young people from local art colleges, as well as vendors from Bangkok and nearby areas.

Cicada Art Factory

In the center of the site are two white buildings with raised floors, known as the Cicada Art Factory. These buildings serve as a venue for art exhibitions, showcasing the works of young artists with original styles as well as those from further afield. The artists are rotated regularly to display the diverse range of artistic content, which includes illustrations, portraits, paintings, photos, and sculptures. The concept of the Art Factory is to promote young artists and help them generate revenue from their original works.

Amphitheater

An amphitheater-style venue provides visitors with entertainment that is both educational and amusing. You can enjoy edutainment activities performed by bands, dance troupes, or theater groups, with performances that are rotated regularly to capture the attention of visitors. This venue also serves to promote the work of talented artists in the performing arts field.

Cicada Cuisine

Food zone featuring many restaurants selling Garden Cuisine style, with grilled, steamed, stir-fried, fried, Thai dessert recipes. Premium wines and natural fruit juices.

Next to Cicada Market, a new market has popped up called Tamarind Market. This market is almost connected to the Cicada Market, so in fact most people don’t even realize that they have switched from one market to the other. The stalls and the food are similar in concept.

Overall, Cicada Market is a great place to experience the creative and artistic side of Hua Hin, while also enjoying delicious food and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or just a fun night out with friends and family, Cicada Market is definitely worth a visit.

Reviews from TripAdvisor

Varun Kumar

Nice market on weekends in Hua Hin
Apr 2023 • Couples
It’s open only on Saturday and Sunday evening. It’s cheap. Food variety is good. Live band is very good. Don’t confuse with the everyday night market.

EvolvedBonobo

Awesome market!
Mar 2023 • Solo
Great place to visit! Excellent vibe, relaxed atmosphere, and a good variety of food! A must-do while visiting Hua Hin! Easy access by the green baht bus.