The Ultimate Guide to Sparty: Budapest’s Legendary Bath Party Experience
Sparty, the iconic bath party held every Saturday from February to December, is a must-visit event for anyone seeking an unforgettable nightlife experience in Budapest. Located in the historic Széchenyi Baths, this unique party combines quality electronic dance music, captivating acrobatic performances, and a mind-blowing visual experience, all set amidst the thermal waters of one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks.
Location and Accessibility
Sparty takes place in the heart of Budapest’s City Park, at Széchenyi Baths. The venue is easily accessible via public transport by taking metro line 1 and getting off at the Széchenyi Gyógyfürdő stop. For those preferring a taxi, it’s advisable to use official taxi companies to ensure a safe and reliable journey. If you are arriving in a wheelchair, kindly inform the organizers so they can prepare to welcome you.
Ticket Information and Purchasing
Tickets for Sparty can be purchased online through their webshop using a bank card and an email address. Online tickets are available until Saturday at 8 PM, after which only basic passes can be bought at the door for 28,000 HUF per person, including entry and access to a standard locker. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets in advance due to limited capacity.
Sparty offers various ticket options to cater to different preferences:
- Basic tickets provide entry and access to a standard locker.
- Basic Flexi tickets include a rebooking option.
- Premium tickets come with two prepaid drink coupons, a recup coupon, and a standard locker, along with the flexibility to rebook.
- Premium Plus tickets offer three prepaid drink coupons, a recup coupon, and a private changing room.
- Express tickets provide express entry, three prepaid drink coupons, a recup coupon, flip-flops, and a private changing room.
- Express Superior tickets add a towel and a Sparty duck to the Express package.
Preparing for the Event
Before heading to Sparty, it’s essential to prepare for the night ahead. Gates open at 9:30 PM, with last entry at 1:00 AM. The party concludes at 2:00 AM, so plan accordingly. Upon arrival, you’ll go through a security check, and tickets will be scanned in the lobby to receive your wristband, which serves as both an entrance ticket and locker key.
What to Bring
When preparing for Sparty, it’s essential to pack only the essentials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are the must-haves for your night at Széchenyi Baths:
- Swimwear: A swimsuit is a must for enjoying the thermal waters.
- Towel: Bring a towel to dry off with, or consider purchasing one as part of a ticket package.
- Flip-flops: These are mandatory, so either bring your own or buy them at the check-in desk.
- ID or Passport: While not necessary for entry, it’s good to have some form of identification on you.
- Cash: Since SpartyPay cards can only be topped up with cash, ensure you have enough Hungarian Forints (HUF) for the night. There is an ATM machine in the building ans two others nearby, but it’s better to come prepared.
It’s advisable to leave valuables, expensive electronics, and important documents at your accommodation to avoid any potential issues during the party.
Best deals of Budapest
Payment and Sustainability
At Sparty, an electronic payment system called SpartyPay is used. You can obtain a SpartyPay card upon entry and top it up with cash. The recommended initial top-up is 20,000 HUF, which includes a 3,000 HUF deposit for the card. Debit and credit cards are not accepted for topping up SpartyPay cards. To minimize plastic waste, Sparty operates a Recup system, where you need to purchase reusable cups before ordering drinks. These cups can be returned for a refund.
Useful Tips
To make the most of your Sparty experience, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
- Arrive Early: Getting to the venue a bit before the gates open at 9:30 PM can help you avoid long queues and secure a good spot in the pools or on the dance floor.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water before arriving to offset the high prices inside, and continue to hydrate throughout the night by balancing your drink intake with water.
- Use Lockers: Keep your belongings safe by storing them in the lockers provided with your ticket.
- Familiarize Yourself with Rules: Understand the event guidelines to avoid any issues with security, such as no drugs or diving into the pools.
- Plan Your Exit: After the party ends at 2:00 AM, consider heading to other late-night venues in Budapest or plan your transportation back to your accommodation in advance.
Rules and Staying Safe
To ensure everyone has a blast at Sparty while staying safe, here are some key rules and tips to keep in mind:
- No Smoking or Diving: Smoking is a no-go in the pools, and jumping or diving into the water is strictly off-limits. These rules are in place to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
- Respect the Venue: Sparty happens in a historic bath complex, so be sure to treat the facilities with care. Avoid littering and don’t use the pools as toilets.
- No Food or Liquids: No food, liquids, or sharp objects are allowed inside. This helps keep the place clean and safe for everyone.
- Secure Your Stuff: Always lock your locker before heading out to the pools to keep your belongings safe.
- Emergency Procedures: If someone gets hurt, contact the staff right away. They’re trained to handle emergencies and will call for medical help if needed. Emergency care is free within the party area.
- Weather Conditions: Sparty goes on in most weather conditions, but if there’s a strong lightning storm, pool areas might be evacuated for safety. Follow any instructions from staff.
- Contact Lenses: For sanitary reasons, it’s recommended to wear glasses instead of contact lenses during the event.
- Respectful Behavior: Avoid incautious sexual relationships, as this behavior is strictly prohibited in the venue.
By following these guidelines and being mindful of your surroundings, you can help create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone at Sparty.
Winter Sparty
Don’t let cooler temperatures deter you from experiencing Sparty in winter. The contrast between the chilly air and the warm thermal waters (34-38 degrees Celsius) adds an extra thrill to the experience. It’s a unique opportunity to party in a bikini while the outside temperature hovers around 5 degrees Celsius.
Capturing Memories
Throughout the night, you’ll have the opportunity to witness incredible acrobatic performances and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Feel free to take photos and videos for personal use, but remember to tag Sparty on social media when sharing your memories. Using drones is strictly prohibited and may have legal consequences.
After the Party
Once Sparty comes to a close, you can head to other nightclubs in Budapest that remain open late. If you wish to enjoy the full facilities of Széchenyi Baths, including saunas and massages, consider visiting the day after your Sparty experience.
In conclusion, Sparty offers an unparalleled nightlife experience in Budapest, combining music, performance, and a unique setting. Whether you’re a seasoned partygoer or just looking for something new, Sparty is an event not to be missed.