Nightlife in Goa

Rave Parties

Goa’s party culture, unique to the state, was brought here by the hippies who descended in droves during the ‘60s.  They found the pristine beaches perfect for all night music and dancing, which were usually accompanied by alcohol and drugs.  These uninhibited partying zones have since grown hugely popular with young locals and foreigners alike, and the intrigue attached to them (venues are kept secret till just a few hours before the party begins in order to avoid raids by cops) only adds to the excitement.  Rave parties also gave rise to a uniquely Goan form of music called Goan Trance.  These days however, government regulations have led to the watering down of these parties into more acceptable drink-food-and dance modes, and the drug culture has toned down to a large extent.  Every year around New Years, however, organized raves are held (usually on full moon nights) that can easily compete with Ibiza or Miami for sheer party fervor.  Parties begin at 11 pm, go on till 8 in the morning, and can sometimes carry over into several days of non-stop abandon, sometimes spilling over into nearby locations.  The alcohol flows freely, and partiers are encouraged to dress up hippie-style so as to add to the ambiance. Ask around at beach shacks near Anjuna or Vagator for details of an upcoming rave.   

Bars, Pubs, and Discos

While most five star resorts have bars and discos attached, you don’t have to head that far for a great night out.  Often times, the best party spots or watering holes are just a few houses down the road.  Many locals here have turned part of their homes into restaurants, and while facilities may be basic with just a few chairs and tables thrown together, the atmosphere is perfect – relaxing and cozy and just right for impromptu parties with friends.  The food is delicious Goan seafood, and your choice of tipple will come in the form of “feni,” the local spirit brewed from cashew.  It’s not unusual to find restaurants here that double as bars and pubs or morph into nightclubs on weekends.  So finding a spot that’s perfect for your mood should be no problem at all.  Or just grab the best seat in the house at whichever beach shack is organizing a barbeque and bonfire evening, and sit the night out by the waters listening to local music under the stars.  If you’re not really into frantic all night partying, then this is the authentic Goan experience for you.