In a few days, we’ll be bidding goodbye to rainy November and ushering in a hopefully less rainy December. And there are so many reasons why December is one of my favourite times of the year. The grand Christmas decorations that deck the streets, long holidays (Christmas eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve), a million reasons to party, self-indulgent feasting and the general air of “Oh the year’s finally coming to an end!”. What’s not to like?
If you love music, getting together with friends and having yourself a great time, December won’t be a letdown. With many festivals and events lined up throughout the month, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Don’t forget the office gatherings and house parties either!
Here’s my list of must-attend events for the upcoming month:
1) UpToTheSky Festival
3 December 2011, Old School @ Mt Sophia


If you’re a fan of indie music and all things experimental/underground, you’ll love this one. Coming to our shores on 3 December 2011 is what’s been touted the ‘ultimate indie music festival’. Boasting international acts like Mogwai (DJ set/UK), Deerhoof (US), Zebra & Snake (Finland), Cambodian Space Project (Cambodia) and local greats, The Great Spy Experiment (SG) in the line-up, this festival promises 12 hours of musical invigoration. There’ll also be a flea market where you can shop for bohemian togs.
For more details and ticketing, go to: http://uptotheskyfestival.com/
2) ZoukOut 2011
10 December 2011, Siloso Beach, Sentosa

The characteristic beautiful-model-against-beach-backdrop ZoukOut poster

As one of the most highly anticipated dance music events in the region, ZoukOut needs little introduction. Now a yearly affair and arguably a tradition amongst Techno, House, Trance, Hip Hop and Mambo Jambo aficionados, the long and accomplished list of DJs are set to keep you on your feet for a staggering 14 hours. Heavyweights like Armin Van Buuren, Avicii, Bob Sinclair and Ladytron are just amongst the few who will be gracing the decks this year. I guess it’s safe to say that if you aren’t there, you’ll be missing out on the party of the year.
Happy hour tickets are already sold out, so move fast if you’re planning to be there!
For more details and ticketing, go to: http://www.zoukout.com/
3) Hed Kandi: Singapore
24 December 2011, Azzura Beach Club Sentosa

Hed Kandi is a UK-based house music label that has produced several chart-toppers and has moved on to host parties all over the world. Azzura Beach Club regularly hosts acclaimed DJs from the label at their swanky beach-side venue. This Christmas Eve, Hed Kandi’s official House ambassador and producer Roger Williams will be hitting the decks to serve up a night of thumping dance anthems.
For more details and ticketing, go to: http://www.azzura.sg/
4) New Year’s Eve Countdown Party
31 December 2011, Tanjong Beach Club

Fresh from hosting Singapore’s rendition of the Full Moon Party in November, Tanjong Beach Club is all set to welcome 2012 with a blast. Frolick with a mojito in hand, the sand in your toes and gyrate to the tunes from LA-based nu-disco duo Poolside Music and local heroes Fred E, Has, Maurice, Syndicate and Pushin’ On. If you have a penchant for beach parties and grooving alongside beautiful folks, this is a great way to greet the new year.
For more details and ticketing, go to: http://www.tanjongbeachclub.com/
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With so many events lined up in December, I’d recommend stocking up on the energy drinks and clearing your sleep debt to make way for some all-night partying. And while you’re soaking up the festivities, don’t forget to stay clean. Keep the night fun and drug-free for you and your friends. Nothing is a bigger buzz-kill.
Enjoy,
DJ Dathe