The debut of Death Fest 2025 marked a powerful cultural moment. Co-organized by Peaceful Death, The Cloud, and Choojai and Friends, the three-day fair transformed IMPACT Exhibition Hall 6, Bangkok into a space of reflection, courage, and connection?drawing a remarkably diverse crowd of young adults, families, and seniors alike.
The opening ceremony was led by Wipavee Phuthim, a 28-year-old woman living with terminal cancer who chose to forgo chemotherapy to focus on living her remaining time with clarity and peace. Her presence set a moving tone for the event, showing that preparing for death isn't about surrender?but about choosing how to live, right to the end.
From the start, Death Fest challenged the long-held taboos surrounding death in Thai culture. A standout moment was the "Test Die" experience, where visitors lay in real coffins?many for the first time?and even selected their preferred style. What was once seen as fearful became a personal and even empowering act of readiness.
Another crowd favorite was the "Last Photo" portrait session, where participants lined up to take their final portrait for use in their future funerals. The mood was far from grim?many described it as peaceful and freeing, reflecting a shift in how society approaches death.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in meaningful conversations at the Human Life-Brary, shared hopes on the Before I Die Wall, and explored 75+ booths offering services related to aging, caregiving, grief, and end-of-life planning.
The overwhelming turnout and engagement made it clear: a new generation is embracing the idea that preparing for death is part of living well. With Thailand's aging population rising, the timing felt more relevant than ever.
Death Fest 2025 continues through 23 March, open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at IMPACT Exhibition Hall 6, Bangkok, Thailand.
Come explore one of the most meaningful conversations of our time?because when we talk about death, we learn how to truly live.
Stay connected at Peaceful Death on Facebook or follow #DeathFest2025 for live updates.###