In the crypto world, the terms altseason and meme season frequently arise. Both seem similar—discussing the price increases of coins other than Bitcoin—but they actually have different characters and momentum. Understanding this difference is essential knowledge for beginners before participating in market euphoria.
🔹What is Altseason?
Altseason is a period when the majority of altcoins (all coins except Bitcoin) experience significant increases. It usually occurs after Bitcoin stabilizes or consolidates. In this phase:
The market capitalization of altcoins rises sharply.
Projects with strong fundamentals (like ETH, BNB, SOL, ADA) become the main drivers.
Investors begin to seek profit opportunities outside of Bitcoin.
In other words, altseason is when the 'rational market' moves, where attention shifts to technology and project adoption.
🔹What is Meme Season?
Meme season is different. It is more influenced by trends, communities, and social media hype. Its characteristics:
Coins without clear fundamentals (DOGE, SHIB, PEPE, WIF, and others) can rise thousands of percent.
Price movements are triggered by community sentiment, public figures, or simply internet culture.
High risks, extreme volatility, and rapid increases can be followed by rapid declines.
Meme season is not a direct part of altseason, but rather a phenomenon in its own right.
🔎The Relationship Between Them.
Altseason usually appears first, followed by an influx of funds into smaller coins.
Meme season can emerge as a spin-off from altseason, when investors who have already profited seek 'additional adrenaline' in the meme market.
Not every altseason is followed by a meme season, depending on market conditions and global trends.
📌Lesson for Beginners.
1. Do not confuse altseason with meme season.
2. Altseason is more about projects that have utility.
3. Meme season is a game of mass psychology—don’t enter just because of fear of missing out (FOMO).
4. Use a small capital if you want to try meme coins, and don’t forget the principle: only invest money that you are prepared to lose.
🔑 Conclusion:
Altseason is a major wave that drives many altcoins up, while meme season is a short party that can bring quick profits along with high risks. As a beginner, it is wise to read the momentum, as each season has its own 'language' and consequences.