The Complete Guide to Beach Parties and Festivals Around the World
Some people take advantage of the summer to travel, while others prefer to take a break in the middle of the year, in winter or spring, to find some sun. For these lucky ones (and others), I offer you a complete guide to beach parties and festivals around the world. Incredible events take place every year on the world's most idyllic beaches, where music, dance, and culture merge.
Full Moon Party – Koh Phangan, Thailand
If you love to party all night, Koh Phangan's Full Moon Party is a must. Held monthly during the full moon, this outdoor party attracts thousands of revelers from all over the world. Located on Haad Rin Beach, it's known for its DJ sets, bright neon lights, bonfires, and body painting. An electric atmosphere is guaranteed for a party that lasts until dawn!
San Juan Festival – Barcelona, Spain
The Festival of San Juan takes place every year on the night of June 23rd and 24th, marking the beginning of summer in Spain. In Barcelona, locals gather on the beaches to celebrate the arrival of the summer season with fireworks, barbecues, and music. It's a night where tradition and modernity collide, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and warm.
Mardi Gras – New Orleans, USA (and area beaches)
Although the heart of Mardi Gras celebrations is in New Orleans, some beaches in the region, such as those in Gulf Shores, Alabama, become veritable party grounds for carnivals. Parades, extravagant costumes, and outdoor concerts provide a joyful and colorful atmosphere. Mardi Gras, whose origins date back to 17th-century France, was brought to Louisiana by French colonists in the early 18th century. The first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans took place in 1837, marking the beginning of a tradition that would continue to grow over the years to become the spectacular event we know today.
Baywatch Festival – Maldives
For lovers of crystal-clear waters and heavenly beaches, the Baywatch Festival is the event not to be missed. Located on private islands in the Maldives, this festival combines electronic music, art, and water sports. It's the perfect opportunity to dance at sunset while enjoying an idyllic setting. The white sand beaches become a meeting place for famous DJs and travelers looking for fun and unforgettable memories.
Holi Beach Festival – Goa, India
Every year, Goa's beach transforms into a unique celebration during the Holi Beach Festival . Inspired by the Indian festival of Holi, this festive event features color baths, electronic music, and outdoor performances. It's an explosive mix of culture where participants are enveloped by clouds of color and music that blends international influences with traditional sounds.
World Bodypainting Festival – Pörtschach, Austria (Wörthersee lake beach)
Although this festival doesn't exactly take place on a seashore, the World Bodypainting Festival on Lake Wörthersee deserves a special mention. It's one of the largest bodypainting art events in the world, where artists use human models as a living canvas. Techniques range from traditional bodypainting to digital art and even interactive installations, creating a stunning spectacle where bodies become expressions of pure creativity. The event takes place on the shores of this beautiful alpine lake, where breathtaking views and creativity intertwine for an extraordinary spectacle. In addition to bodypainting competitions, live performances, fashion shows, and workshops are offered, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in this artistic world and learn more about this growing art form.
Sziget Festival – Budapest, Hungary (Óbuda island)
If you're looking for a beach party with an international musical atmosphere, the Sziget Festival is a must-see event. Although it doesn't take place directly on the sea, this huge festival takes place on Óbuda Island, on the banks of the Danube. With hundreds of concerts, street artists, and an electronic music scene, this festival is a true cultural melting pot where music and art come together.
Reggae Sumfest – Montego Bay, Jamaica
Reggae lovers won't want to miss Reggae Sumfest , one of Jamaica's most famous festivals. Held annually in July, it takes place on the beach in Montego Bay, featuring live performances from the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, and Caribbean music. The relaxed atmosphere, island warmth, and intoxicating rhythms make it a dream party destination.
Ultra Music Festival – Miami, USA
The Ultra Music Festival takes place every year in March, usually over a three-day weekend, just before or during Spring Break in the United States. The event takes place in Miami, Florida, primarily in Bayfront Park, located in the heart of the city, close to the water. Although the Ultra Music Festival doesn't take place directly on the beach, Miami is one of the most iconic beach destinations where the event really comes into its own. This electro festival attracts the world's best DJs every year. It's a veritable explosion of music and energy, with after-parties not to be missed on the beaches of South Beach.
Rio Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio Carnival takes place every year during the period leading up to Ash Wednesday, usually between February and March. It officially begins on Friday evening and ends on Wednesday morning, marking the end of the carnival season before the start of Lent in the Christian tradition. Rio Carnival is one of the most spectacular festivals in the world, and although the main event takes place in the city, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema also become a festive gathering place. Between samba parades and beach parties, it is a celebration of the body, music, and Brazilian energy that invades the coast.
From the beaches of Thailand to the coasts of Brazil, every corner of the world offers unforgettable beach festivals. These events provide the perfect opportunity to combine relaxation and festivities, while discovering local cultures through music, dance, and traditions. So, whether you're looking for traditional, electro, or reggae music, don't hesitate to plan your next trip around one of these must-see festivals. And above all, don't forget your Khiónê swimsuit to fully enjoy these moments on the warm sand!