There’s psychedelic colours in the air, a peace sign hanging from the ceiling, and a ring of flowers in your hair. The Mamas and Papas are wailing about California, loudly. And the sun is still shining.
Doesn’t sound much like a Dubai nightclub, right?
Welcome to Pacha’s new themed “day parties”, which see the venue given a schizophrenic, weekly shake-up.
I stopped by for the concept’s launch, on the last Friday in March, which boasted a “Flower Power” theme. Expectations were set suitably low.
But from the minute I rocked up to see a spray-painted hippie van planted bang in the middle of the Souk Madinat’s welcome roundabout, I felt the peace and love starting to flow.
The club’s main room was transformed with spangly, dangling peace signs sprouting from the ceiling, but despite a brewing rainstorm, the real action was going down on the rooftop.
Guests are welcomed by a wall-sized Sgt Peppers cover – selfie-tastic, with the Fab Four blacked out. Psychedelic signs and slogans (“LOVE”) line the walls, while tie-dye-dressed waiters hand out peace-sign glasses and flower rings.
Best of all – the music. Booming from the soundsystem was an endless stream of classic ‘60s rock, pop and soul – suitably surreal at a club known primarily for house. So infectious, it was impossible not to get a groove on.
Any reservations were parked swiftly at the door, this was shameless kitsch fun, of the kind you’d never expect to find at an intent, international club brand like Pacha.
We’ve been promised another Flower Power party before summer, but in the meantime the venue is cycling through a series of four different themed day parties for the four Fridays in April.
Things continue with a tropical feel on Friday April 3, with lush leaves promised for the Jungle Fever party. A week later guests are encouraged to wear nothing but white for the classic White Day Party.
April 17 will see the venue put aside for a showcase of UAE DJs and artists with a Local Showcase, while things will be on familiar territory with a Defected in the House party on April 24.
Having seen how seriously Pacha takes its weekly overhauls, all these events are likely to kick off. But secretly, I’m still waiting for the sweet sixties to return.
• Pacha’s day parties take place on Fridays from 1pm until 10pm (after which normal clubbing resumes). Free entry. A BBQ brunch package is available 1pm until 4pm, priced at Dh500
