Sand, music and a touch of moonwax

PHOTO COURTESY OF SNEAKY SPINS

Multiple choice question: Moonwax is A) an organic substance found on the surface of some meteors and space debris, B) a rash suffered by astronauts upon their return to Earth or, C) a party on the beach at Tahsi in Ilan County this Saturday night? If you answered C, then you're already in the know.

The folks at Sneaky Spins are teaming up with a crack team of event organizers to put music in the ears of Taiwan's partygoers and sand between their toes. Best of all, it's free. Showing the true spirit of summer fun, an expanding line-up of DJs are volunteering their time and their vinyl to entertain the sand-speckled masses on Ilan County's most famous beach. Taking to the turntables between dusk and dawn will be Sneaky Spin's own K Fancy, Coffee, Em, D1, Taipei newcomers Phifty-Phive and DJ DeBalzac as well-as Emmanuel Ferreira, who played Second Floor last fall and is now breaking news in Vancouver's break-beats scene. Triple Stage will also be on hand to break a few records.

In addition to the dance music, there will be a chill-out area where revelers can relax or catch a few Zs before heading back to the fun. As of press time, organizers were struggling to work out the logistics of black-light volleyball. Beverages will be on sale at the site and campfires will provide an opportunity for barbequing.

"Ya'll better bring a change of underwear 'cause we're gonna have that good a time!" said one organizer.

As tourist-trod as it's become, Tahsi still lacks accommodation. The few home-stays available are likely to go fast and so partygoers arriving by train are encouraged to tote a tent. Alternatively, the first train back to Taipei will arrive in Tahsi at approximately 4:58am for anyone wanting to race against the sun. Tahsi (大溪) is two hours southeast of Taipei on the slow train. Riders can also take the fast train to Toucheng and then take an NT$250 taxi to Tahsi's beach. Organizers say that they will be graciously accepting donations at the DJ booth to help cover costs of the event.