50,000 expected at Phuket 'mega-beach party'

Sydictive Element executive Worachat Phetchnantawong described the event as a world’s first music festival by the sea. He said it was moved from Thalang district’s Surin Beach to Krathu district’s Patong Beach following objections from business operators. 

The firm obtained the province’s approval on December 28, so the event would certainly go ahead, running from 3pm today until 6am tomorrowDecember 31, and resuming again at 3pm tomorrow and ending at 6am on Monday. Fifteen world-renowned DJs and 15 top Thai DJs, as well as other celebrities, would attend, according to Worachat. However, Paris Hilton, who officially launched the Sydictive Element party in Bangkok in October, had yet to confirm her attendance pending discussion of payment of her airfare. 

Ticket sales for the event had been strong, organisers said. The change of location would not be a problem for those who bought tickets earlier, Worachat said, adding that those who were unhappy with the new location could ask for a refund.

He said the event was expected to attract 50,000 people. Preparation of the sea stage and VIP seating section was 90-per-cent complete, and three barges equipped with lighting systems were to be towed to Patong Beach later yesterday evening.

Among the conditions imposed on the organisers are: limiting use of the beach to an 800-metre stretch; a ban on sales of alcohol in public areas; a requirement that no performances violate Thai traditions; appropriate and sufficient security measures; cleanliness and payment for garbage-collection servicesa requirement for up to 240 VIPs on each barge used; and sufficient life vests and at least 10 fire extinguishers on the stage and five cylinders on each VIP barge.