Christmas and New Year Party in Goa

The “Party Capital of India” Goa is in the party mood all through the year. The fun doubles especially during Christmas and New Year in Goa owing to its festivities. The smallest state of India has a reputation for its scenic beaches, parties, celebrations, food, music, nightlife, and tropical weather. It is one of the favorite places to visit in December in India owing to its medley of exhilarating options.

While Christmas in Goa is usually religious, it also has a wild side. Midnight masses, feasts, carol singing, etc. are held at the Churches in Goa. There are also options for dance, exchange of gifts, and fireworks. New Year events in Goa are indeed worth your time. Dance away the night getting high on drinks as well as foot-tapping music at nightclubs, beach shacks, river cruises, and more.

One of the hottest destinations in India for Holiday Seasons is the tiny emerald Goa. Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Goa attracts millions of visitors from around the globe owing to its sun-kissed beaches, centers of Ayurveda and meditation, World Heritage Churches and Cathedral, and its vibrant nightlife & party scene. So it’s no wonder that tourists arrive in thousands for Christmas and New Year celebrations in Goa.

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Come December and the charm of New Year and Christmas Party in Goa becomes the talk of the town. With its inherent party culture, Goa serves as an ideal destination for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. In fact, one of the best places to celebrate Christmas and New Year in India is indeed Goa. But also beware of the rush and make preparations in advance as accommodations are pre-booked for what is the peak season of tourism in Goa.

[Know more about the celebrations of Christmas and New Year in Goa.]

Christmas Party in Goa

As you all know, Christmas is all about celebrating good spirit in people. Gifts are exchanged, according to the depths of pockets, and Santa Claus brings gifts for many children. Dress up in the finest clothes and partake in Missa de Galo, traditionally known for midnight mass. Also, music and dance are an integral part of the celebrations. It is wonderful to see that Christmas celebrations in Goa are not just restricted to Christians. People belonging to different communities partake in the celebration along with great zeal and enthusiasm.

Churches of Goa

Goa is also popular for its temples, churches, and other rich monuments. While the New Year celebrations need to be cherished, the peace and refreshment that the churches will offer you will make your holiday to Goa more memorable. Some of the most popular churches in Goa include Basilica of Bom Jesus, The Se Cathedral, the Lady of Rosary, The Rachol Seminary, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.

• Masses and Feasts at Churches

Christmas is celebrated religiously at Churches in Goa. The spiritual feel is truly blissful. Attending a midnight mass must be on your list if you want to celebrate the festival traditionally. Prayers, hymns, sermons, and the divine ambiance is indeed a cherished experience. Many Goan churches also host feasts where one can enjoy with delicious Goan specialties and other delights

• Dance on Christmas Eve

Like former traditions, there are grand Christmas parties in Goa, especially on the eve of the festival. Dances are organized at villages, popular resorts, beaches, and many other places here. Foot-tapping music coupled with a merry ambiance, tempts you to dance all night. In other words, make your Christmas in Goa special with such an event.

• Attend fireworks show

In addition to traditions, Christmas festivities in Goa have a fun side. At night, fireworks light upon the skies. Attending these shows of colorful fireworks are among fun things to do in Goa for family, couples on honeymoon, and anyone on holiday at the festival season.

New Year Party in Goa

Live music, food, beer, fun, frolic, parties, sun, sea, and the sand describe the perfect facet of Goa during the New Year bash. Tropical beaches, spectacular churches, water sports, rave parties, bars & pubs, and delicious Goan food will create a joyous occasion for you and deserve to be celebrated with all the merriment possible. While enjoying New Year celebrations, one can indulge in various activities such as beach sports, sightseeing, dancing, and beach bumping.

The New Year celebrations in Goa are a gala affair for kids too. They can enjoy swimming, building sand castles, snorkeling, and other fun-filled activities. On the other hand, the elderly people can explore the grand churches and temples in Goa. They can also enjoy Ayurvedic massages to get relief from nagging aches and pains.

Here is the list of a few things that you must enjoy to celebrate your New Year’s Eve while on the Goa holiday tour:

Parties in Goa

• Goan Rave Parties

When it comes to Christmas and New Year celebrations in Goa, the vibrant nightlife and parties are the most sought-after activities for fun and revelry.  par often plays host to numerous musical programs and Rave parties in Goa is certainly a craze on a New Year’s Eve. People dance & sing as Goan Trance music is played throughout the night. Such Rave Parties are held every night around the holiday season from Christmas to the New Year season. Remember drugs are a strict no-no in Goa.

• Cruise Parties in Goa

Partying aboard a grand cruise sounds like just the perfect idea for an unforgettable Christmas or New Year celebration.  These parties are a major tourist attraction of Goa. Along with the abundance of food and drinks, the music of Goa’s cruise parties never ceases. There are a number of choices for tourists looking for Cruise parties in Goa.

Sunset Cruise embarks on the one-hour journey from Santa Monica to River Mandovi and guests get to witness enthusiastic performances of folk dance and DJs.

Dinner Cruise, on the other hand, is a two-hour ride around the river Mandovi and takes place during the night, with similar entertainment as Sunset Cruise. To savor the view of the sunset, Sunset Cruise is the best option for travelers.

Goa Backwater Cruise is an amazing way to get into a better understanding of this beautiful state, by spending time beside its lush greenery and mangroves.

Nothing beats Christmas and New Year festivities like a cruise party in Goa. It is something that everyone on a holiday in Goa must experience.

Also Read:  Best River Cruises in Goa For an Unbeatable Experience!

Covid-19 Guidelines for River Cruises & Water Sports in Goa

• The Beach Shacks in Goa

Beach shacks in Goa are happening places set along the entire sandy coastline. Offering the pleasures of the coastal paradise, here you can enjoy the Christmas and New Year festivities in Goa. Owing to beautiful views, delightful food, amazing drinks, bonfire, and live music coupled with nature’s melody of waves, you are in for a great time.

The beach shacks of Goa are absolutely perfect for friends, couples, and even solo travelers. Although they remain open all through the year, the beach shacks enliven up after sunset. In fact, the best excitements of your holiday are available with Goa beach nightlife.

If you wish to spend your New Year or Christmas away from the loud parties, beach shacks offer cheap and peaceful celebrations with a traditional flavor. Bonfire, beachside barbecue, Goan food, trance parties & music, and echoing wave initiates the perfect beginning for New Year.

Curlies: One of the oldest shacks in Goa, Curlies provides the perfect ambiance, if you are looking for parties.

Location: Anjuna Beach
Type of music: Trance, DJ plays his unique music

Coco Loco Club: For people who love live music, open-air celebrations, and lively nightlife; Coco Loco Club is the place to be.

Location: Arambol Beach
Type of music: Latin and Reggae music, and trance and house music

Thalassa: This shack offers a breathtaking view of the sunset from its waterfront. Spend time in luxury with live music and party on your waterfront deck at Thalassa.

Location: Teso Waterfront, Siolim
Type of music: DJ with mixed music

Wendy’s Fire-Wendy’s: All the party animals head to Wendy’s Fire-Wendy’s and sing along to their favorite songs. Not only this, but relish Goan food, lively ambiance, and great music.

Location: Colva Beach
Type of music: Soulful Goan music, Karaoke

[Get More Ideas for Christmas & New Year Vacation]

• Happening parties at Night Clubs

Nightclubs in Goa are definitely heavenly for party lovers. Rejoice in life like never before. After the sun sets, the nightclubs light up like a bride. Bright lights, groovy music, food, and alcohol will create a blissful time. Celebrate New Year festivities that start before Christmas and till the time of the Goa Carnival.

While some of the best nightclubs are at Baga Beach, there are many budget options in North Goa and the choicest luxury options in South Goa. A rave party in Goa, at one of the nightclubs, must also be on your bucket list.

Famous Night Clubs in Goa

Silent Noise Club

Groove on “The Breakup Song” with your wireless headphones just like Anushka and Ranbir from “Hai Dil Ae Mushkil”. Select your music and dance to its rhythm till you drop.

Location: Palolem Beach
Type of music: Electric punk, trance, EDM, Indian and pop

SinQ Night Club

One of the most famous nightclubs in Goa, SinQ is all about rocking music with a first-class bar. So, hit the dance floor and dance like no one’s watching.

Location: Sinquerim Beach
Type of music: Salsa nights, karaoke sessions, and dance shows

Tito’s

Celebrate Christmas and New Year at one of the most famous clubs in Goa. Tito offers great music, lip-smacking cuisine, and live bands to all party lovers.

Location: Baga Beach
Type of music: Live bands, soft tunes from the piano

Hill Top

One of the most happening party places in Goa, Hill Top is great to dance all night long. This nightclub is the ideal place for all the party animals.

Location: Vagator
Type of music: Trance music

Leopard Valley

Leopard Valley has one of the biggest open-air arenas in India. It is famous for its ambiance and music, which is perfect for party freaks.

Location: Palolem – Agonda road
Type of music: Trance, DJ with varied music

• Get High at Pubs and Bars

Drinks, especially feni, and the many alcoholic varieties complete the Goa holiday. As the coastal state welcomes people from all around the globe for fun, drinks are easily found to get high and in the festive spirit. In fact, getting high is a favorite among most people attending the 31st December party in Goa. Owing to its liberal laws and lower taxes for alcohol, drinks set the mood for celebrations along with finger-licking delights. There are plenty of drinking options for everyone and for all kinds of budgets. Choose to quench your thirst at pubs, bars, exclusive resorts, beachside options, and more.

Cafe Mojo

From the friendly staff, pool table, karaoke, British-inspired decor, and great music, Cade Mojo is the most happening place in Goa. It is the best bar to enjoy beer, cocktails, and other liquor.

Location: Panaji
Type of music: Live music by local bands and DJs

Soro

Head to Soro to taste the fine blend of wines, beers, and other spirits. Enjoy the Goan food along with pizzas, burgers, and soups, all of which have phenomenal taste and flavors.

Location: Vagator
Type of music: English and Hindi music

Cavala

This is a popular place in the beachside Cavala Resort. Visit here for casual dining, and delicious food and drinks.

Location: Baga
Type of music: Retro and rock music

• Play the Game of Luck at Casinos in Goa

Among the fun celebrations, trying your luck at the casinos in Goa is a must. As here, the casinos are legal, you can indulge in the absolute fun. There are a number of exciting options both onshore and offshore. While casinos are mostly found at most upscale hotels and resorts, there are also floating offshore are the ones that are absolutely amazing. You have the option of enjoying the ride on cruises and luxury yachts while trying your luck.

In addition to super fun, the casinos have some of the best New Year events in Goa. Dress up for the occasion, delight in live music, and watch live dancers, all the while testing luck. The popular games to try include Black Jack, Rummy, Stud Poker, and Flash, among others.

Big Daddy Casino

This casino is Goa’s best offshore casino. It has an entertainment zone, multi-cuisine restaurant, cigar lounge, sundeck, barbeque section, and children’s play area.

Location: Panjim
Types of Games: Baccarat, Andar Bahar, Casino War, Rashi Wheel, 3 Card Poker, Roulette, Mang Patta, 5 Card Poker, Black Jack, Texas Hold’em Poker, Indian Flush, Mini Flush, Pappu (Indian Rummy).

Deltin Royale

This classy casino has four floors with a restaurant, 123 gaming tables, a poker room, a kid’s zone, and more. Deltin Royale offers international dancing performances, comedy shows, and live bands.

Location: Panjim
Types of Games: Baccarat, Casino War, Blackjack, Roulette, 3 Card Poker, Money Wheel, 5 Card Poker, Texas Hold’em Poker, Mini Flush, and slot machines.

Casino Strike

The largest onshore casino in India, Casino Strike offers the latest slot machines, Russian dancers, and exclusive games that are not available in any other casino in India.

Location: Bambolim, North Goa
Types of Games: Roulette, Blackjack, Indian Flush, Andar Bahar, Baccarat, Casino War, slot machines.

Casino Pride

If you loved Teen Patti as a teenager, then you are going to love Casino Pride. Enjoy poker and live events in Bollywood style.

Location: Panjim
Types of Games: Baccarat, 3 Card Poker, Texas Hold’em Poker, Casino War, Blackjack, Roulette, Money Wheel, 5 Card Poker, Flush, and slot machines.

• Unique Experience with Silent Noise Parties

A very special experience, in other words, the best New Year party in Goa is the trendy Silent Noise party. With no noise pollution, peppy beats on your headphones, and only an evening of absolute fun & dance, it is one of the best options for nightlife in Goa.

Although the party happens every Saturday night, near Palolem Beach, the charm is absolutely surreal during the season of New Year festivities. Put your headphones playing to different genres of music like trance music, hard rock, pop music, etc. while going wild on the dance floor.

Owing to the charming vibe of Goa, it is among the best places for Christmas and New Year festivities. Owing to the abundant nighttime options, you will surely have an unforgettable holiday.

Short Escape to Goa
2 Nights / 3 daysDelightful Goa Vacation
3 Nights / 4 daysAmazing Goa
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• Spectacular Beaches

The beaches of Goa are the best venues to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Goa. The coastline of Goa extends up to around 100 kilometers. Pure & palm fronted beaches entice tourists with their bright blue waters and hurling waves. Some of the most popular beaches in Goa are Calangute, Baga, and Vagator. To enjoy New Year celebrations, many beaches play host to New Year parties full of dance, music, food, and drinks.

Drinker’s Heaven

Another thing that is hugely popular in Goa is the availability of the vast range of cheap alcoholic beverages. There are plenty of local and luxury bars and discos to enjoy. Kaju Feni is the extremely cheap and local liquor available in Goa. It is made either from coconut or the fruit of the cashew nut tree and is available in Goa only.

[Get Christmas and New Year Holiday Ideas !]

Hotels in Goa during Festive Season

When it comes to Christmas and New Year celebrations in Goa, the season starting December till mid-January sees a mad rush of tourists. At this time of the year, Goa hotels remain a choc-o-bloc, hence, advance bookings are necessary.

Some of the best hotels in Goa are booked for a year in advance and it is very difficult to find accommodation in even the most affordable of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, even if the price shoots up considerably. Hence a book in advance.

[Browse through Goa Holiday Packages to Plan Your Trip]

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Debashree Chakraborty

A travel writer by profession and self-professed addict to literature and travelling. Go through her penned down travel experiences on indianholiday.com