Have you ever heard legendary stories about the infamous Full Moon?
Whether you are planning a trip to be part of its revelry, or you are just curious about what it is all about, this guide to the full moon party is for you.
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The vast party takes place almost every month along the stretch of a beach on Koh Phangan island in Thailand. On the night of the full moon, sometimes right before or after, thousands of people from all over the world come to partake in its festivities and dance until the sun rises. Thailand’s full moon party is arguable the wildest and biggest party in Southeast Asia with an attendance of over 30,000 people. There is no wonder why this party has gained so much popularity all across the globe.
From what to expect, where to stay and what to wear – here is the ultimate beginner’s guide to Thailand’s Full Moon Party.
What is the Full Moon Party?
Sometime in the mid-1980s, on the night of a full moon, a bunch of backpackers threw a party on the beach. Some say it was a birthday party, while many claim it was just a good excuse to party. But really, who cares? A party is a party, right?
Year after year, the word spread and the party got bigger and crazier until it reached its notorious and bucket list-worthy status for countless travellers visiting Thailand. The full moon party is an enormous festival-like event with heaps of debauchery, drinking and everything that goes with it.
All beach bars blast music from their sound systems and the entire beach is lined with fire dancers, glow-in-the-dark paint stands, and alcohol vendors. Though the party is quite rowdy and commercialized today – it is definitely a great place to have a fun time!
When is the Full Moon Party?
As the name suggests, the party usually takes place on the night of the full moon, but seldom the dates shift due to local holidays. Hence, while planning your trip, make sure you’ve done enough research to not miss out on this fun and exciting opportunity.
How to Get to the Full Moon Party?
Depending on where you are coming from, the closest islands to Kho Phangan are Koh Tao and Koh Samui. Inexpensive ferries run daily between these islands. The actual moon party takes place on Haad Rin beach on Koh Phangan island.
From Bangkok: if you’re coming from Bangkok, the fastest way to reach the party is to take a short flight to Koh Samui and get on a ferry to reach the island of Koh Phangan. Budget-friendly boat and overnight buses are also readily available options.
Where to Stay?
Accommodation is typically complicated to get on Koh Phangan island during the week before and after the Full Moon Party. Thus, make sure you book a place in advance to save yourself from any future stress. On the other hand, you can find accommodation on a nearby island, attend the party and catch a ferry back to your hotel.
What to Wear to Thailand’s Full Moon Party?
Generally, people wear traditional and neon party clothes with a swimsuit underneath because that is what most of the people are left in at the end of the night. The full moon party in Thailand is not the occasion to wear fancy or expensive clothes you love or would not want to see ruined.
There is really no need to pack anything special for this event as you can buy all your FMP swag from street vendors in about $10 – $15. Additionally, make sure to wear sneakers to avoid any glass hurting your feet.
What to Expect from the Full Moon Party?
The full moon party in Thailand is packed with people from all around the globe, fire dancers, dance stages, DJ’s, drink bucket stands, alcohol vendors and everything else to make it the wildest and craziest night of your life!
During the party, it can be quite tough to keep track of how much alcohol you’ve consumed, thus pace yourself. Apart from the booze rush, you can expect giant fire-lit jump ropes, spinning fire poles, twirling fireballs, and all kinds of music bursting through sound systems.
The party gets in full action by midnight as it’s a late-night or early morning event, so do not expect to get any sleep as the moon party does not taper off until sunrise. Indeed, the part is long and fun!
Helpful Tip: You’re likely to come across people using drugs but remember that they’re illegal in Thailand and involve heft fines!
The full moon party in Thailand is a wild, festive event with visitors coming from all over the globe. If you’re still not intrigued enough to pack your bags, check our website for more fun and interesting travel destinations!
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