5 things to do in Yangon this weekend: September 16

Myanmar street photography from Featured Collectives

The people behind Featured Collectives, a platform for Myanmar street photography, host two exciting events this weekend to celebrate the launch of a new book. First up, the opening of an exhibition at Myanmar Deitta Gallery, featuring glorious prints by dozens of artists. Then, on Sunday, a talk on the art of street photography and the challenges faced by women in the industry. Speakers include Minzayar Oo, Chit Min Maung and Yu Yu Myint Than.

Exhibition: Saturday, opening from 7pm at Myanmar Deitta Gallery, Botahtaung Township.

Talk: Sunday, 4pm-6pm at The Rough Cut, Sanchaung Township.

Pascal Khoo Thwe reading at Pansodan Scene (Sunday)

Pascal Khoo Thwe at the Park Royal Hotel in Yangon on September 15, 2016. Photo: Aung Naing Soe / Coconuts Yangon

The author of the acclaimed From the Land of Green Ghosts reads from the book. Followed by a Q&A and book signing. Get in the mood with our interview here.

Pansodan Scene, 4pm until 6pm.

Eat delicious Burmese food at Anya Ahta

Aung Soe Min, the artist and restaurateur who runs Pansodan, Pansodan Scene and Pansuriya, has done it again. Anya Ahta, the new downtown eatery, is a streetside joint with an artsy style.

You can feast while admiring numerous paintings in the wall.

The cuisine is focused on central Myanmar. Lots of small dishes and salads. At about $3 per person, the price is right. Oh and there’s draft beer.

Well worth checking out and has all the welcoming vibe that Aung Soe Min’s establishments are justly celebrated for.

Anya Ahta, #136 Street 37. Open from 7am to 10pm.

Global Harmonies at French Institute (Sunday)

The group singing session is back after a summer break. No experience necessary.

The French Institute, #340 Pyay Road. 2pm until 4pm.

Oktoberfest at Shangri-La Hotel (Saturday)

Who says Oktoberfest needs to be in October? Not Shangri-La Hotel, which is hosting the event a tad early at its Gallery Bar. Free-flow beer, soft drinks and a ‘mini-buffet’ for $25 per head. Also, excitingly: traditional games.

Shangri-La Hotel, 6pm until 10pm.