Contributor:
Rapahel Kevin Tevar
Finance Officer, APCOM
White Party Bangkok is Asia’s biggest gay New Year’s Eve festival. It’s a multi-day circuit event held in the heart of Bangkok that attracts tons of gay guys from across the globe. It is known for having production values that rival major international concerts, massive LED screens, world-class lasers, and superstar DJs.
White Party supported APCOM by selling their VIPs tickets that were donated.
The theme for the 2025/2026 “Ken Land” was a playful, campy twist on the Barbie universe. The concept was simple: “Welcome to a world where everyone is a Ken.” It encouraged us to break out of the box and be whatever version of “Ken” we wanted, whether that was Muscle Ken, Glam Ken, Diva Ken, or Leather Ken. The visuals were bright, pop-art inspired, and unapologetically fun.
Why is this space important to you?
I love to party, and for me, this space is more than just a party. It is a safe, affirming space where LGBTQIA+ people can exist fully and unapologetically as themselves. And I love that the theme this year allows me to be more playful and girly than the past years’ themes, it makes us feel more comfortable with our identity as queer people.
Why is this space important to the community?
It’s special as not everywhere can have a party like this, it fosters a powerful sense of global queer community, bringing together people across cultures, identities, and borders through joy, visibility, and shared experience. While partying can be just a lifestyle for others, coming together as queer people transforms it into something deeper: an act of solidarity, resistance, and celebration. Spaces like this matter because they create belonging, amplify our presence, and remind us that our identities are not only valid but worthy of being celebrated loudly and collectively.
What would you say to people who say it’s just a party?
I’d say that joy is a form of resistance. When life is often difficult for us, coming together to dance, laugh, and celebrate our existence is healing. “Ken Land” wasn’t just about the music; it was about creating a temporary stage where we could feel completely safe and celebrated for exactly who we are.
Tell us about your experience at the White Party
I went to the AGM party which was the opening night for White Party BKK. The energy was unmatched because everyone normally goes to the opening night. So, there were a lot of old friends and I met a lot of new friends, as well. Their production is massive, they even have Nymphia Wind, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16, as the guest performer that night. I also went to the New Year’s Eve party which was themed as “Ken Land” and I went as Rugby Player Ken.
White Party supported our fundraising for LGBTQI community
Yes, this year they partnered with APCOM (a regional organization that focuses on LGBTQIA+ rights and health) to support the #APCOMPassion Emergency Fund. They used the festival’s massive platform to raise money for the community members facing urgent health and human rights crises. It felt good to know that the ticket proceeds were helping underprivileged communities.
Anything else you’d like to share?
If you plan to go next year, prepare your outfits early! The creativity level is high, and it’s so much more fun when you lean into the theme. Also, pace yourself because it’s a 4 day marathon. Drink water, look out for your friends, and just have fun with it.
