In a country that receives over 2.1 million travelers each month (as of September 2023), 30,000 of this very number specifically set their sights on Koh Phangan to attend one of the most famous beach parties in the world: The Full Moon Party.
The origins of this event are relatively unknown, with rumors stating it was started by a group of foreign tourists in the 80s. The parties’ momentum remained uninterrupted over the years, except for when the COVID pandemic stopped it in its tracks for two years.
In 2022, however, the parties returned with a vengeance, attracting tens of thousands of revelers from different parts of the globe to the sandy beaches of Haad Rin to party the night away.
In this article, we’ll help you decide the ultimate time of the year to attend The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan.
The Full Moon Party takes place on the evening of every full moon of every month. Some days may be moved before or after the full moon when the date falls on a national or religious holiday. During Buddhist religious holidays, alcohol consumption is prohibited, so organizers opt to move the party a day before or after the full moon.
However, if you love music, beach parties, and new experiences, then Koh Pangan’s Full Moon Party stands as a definitive rite of passage.
Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party Schedule in 2024
The Full Moon Party takes place on the evening of every full moon of every month. Some days may be moved before or after the full moon when the date falls on a national or religious holiday. During Buddhist religious holidays, alcohol consumption is prohibited, so organizers opt to move the party a day before or after the full moon.
Here is a list of Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party 2024 schedule:
- April 23
- May 23
- June 21
- July 22
- August 19
- September 17
- October 18
- November 15
- December 15
- December 31 (New Year’s Eve party)
When Is The Best Time to Attend The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?
The best time to attend The Full Moon Party depends on what you want to experience. The common consensus is that the best times are the months between January to April when the weather is not too hot and not too cold. This constitutes the peak season with the most influx of visitors. If you love meeting new people, partying in a big crowd, and letting loose at the biggest beach party in the world, this is the best time for you.
However, if you like partying with fewer people, then the monsoon season of September to November is the best time to visit.
If you want to experience the hottest weather and love to sweat it out as you dance till sunrise, the months of May and June offer the most ideal climate. For those seeking the biggest crowd of foreign attendees, the months of July and August are the best.
However, if you want to experience the pinnacle of The Full Moon Party, it would have to be in December since there are two events: December’s full moon and the New Year’s Eve party, featuring an extravaganza of activities with the most number of revelers.
Pre and After-Party Options at Koh Phangan
The Half-Moon Festival
This event occurs twice a month and happens four days before and after The Full Moon Party. The party is in a forest near Ban Tai village and features three stages with international acts and DJs.
Jungle Experience
This is another event held at Ban Tai, which is set a day before the full moon. It’s more lively with a circus, fire dancers, and Muay Thai performances. There’s also a Chillout Zone for revelers who want to take a “Disco Nap,” a place to rest your tired feet in the middle of a music festival.
Lost Paradise Party
Located on a secluded beach at Haad Yao East, it is held in a beach bungalow every two weeks. Getting to the location is part of the adventure since you need to use a 4×4 or a boat to get there—a story of one for the books. Complete your Thailand travel bucket list by ticking this off it.
Friendly Reminders
Attending Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party is a unique and exhilarating experience, whether you’re an avid partygoer or not. It’s a joyous and lively festival where folks from all over the world come to unwind, let loose, enjoy the beats of music, mingle with friends or strangers, and get one with nature.
However, to make the most of the experience, it’s crucial to know the optimal time to visit the island. The best time, however, depends on how you define a great party: is it big crowds and the most activities, or is it music-focused with fewer crowds? Ask yourself how you wish to experience The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan, and you’ll find the answer!
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Featured Image by Maor Attias
