Your complete Sparty rulebook: What to expect and how to prepare

Thinking about hitting up Sparty at Szechenyi Baths in Budapest? It's an exciting event that's all about high energy and having a blast with a big crowd! So, to make sure everyone has a great time and stays safe, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind. Here's a handy guide to help you understand the rules, prepare for your visit, and make the most of this one-of-a-kind experience.

Essential Sparty rules

• Event timing: Sparty runs from 9:30pm to 2am, with entries closing at 1am. Entry is not allowed after 1am.
• Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to attend Sparty events. Make sure to carry a valid ID, as this will be checked upon entry.
• Entry restrictions:  Entry will be refused even with a valid ticket if you arrive intoxicated or behave inappropriately or aggressively. Additionally, entry will be denied if you have open wounds or contagious/skin diseases to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.
• Luggage restrictions: Only regular-sized sport bags, handbags, and tote bags are allowed. Larger suitcases should be left at your accommodation or at storage points in the city.
• Item restrictions: Food, drinks, glass items, sharp objects, drugs, or markers are strictly prohibited at Sparty. 
• Security check: You will need to go through a mandatory security check at the entrance that ensures no prohibited item can enter the venue.
• Mandatory footwear: Flip-flops or slippers are mandatory. If you forget them, you can purchase a pair at the check-in desk.
• Ticket and wristband: Carry your ticket or voucher and personal ID (passport or driving license). Tickets on smartphones in PDF format are accepted. Your tickets are scanned in the lobby, after which you will receive a wristband that serves as both an entrance ticket and a locker key.
• Voucher use: Your ticket vouchers are not personalized. The first person presenting the ticket code on the voucher will receive the wristband. So, protect your ticket from fraud by keeping it secure and not sharing the code with anyone.
• Locker & cabin information: Lockers are 120x30x65 cm standard wardrobe boxes. Lockable private cabins or changing rooms are allocated automatically. It's not guaranteed that two people will get adjacent cabins.
• Return the wristband: Lockers and cabins work with wristbands issued at check-in. A 3000 HUF fine applies for lost wristbands if you are not able to return them when the event ends.
• No daytime services: Daytime services like saunas and massages are not available during Sparty. For these, you must book separate Szechenyi Baths tickets and plan your visit before or after the event.
• Follow the dress code: As this is a bath party, swimsuits, beach clothes, and slippers are mandatory. No sports attire is allowed in the pools, and you cannot go around the premises without appropriate swimwear. 
• Weather conditions: Sparty occurs in all weather conditions except severe storms. The event may continue in rain, but severe lightning may require temporary evacuation for safety.
• Smoking policy: Smoking is allowed only in designated areas with ashtrays near the pools.
• Drug policy: Drug use is strictly forbidden and subject to Hungarian laws.
• First aid: A trained medical team is on-site to provide first aid if needed. Don't hesitate to seek help if you feel unwell or get injured.
• Recup system: Sparty uses a Recup system to reduce plastic waste. Each Sparty Cup costs 700 HUF, with a 350 HUF refund for each returned cup (up to 4 cups per SpartyPay card).
• Policy on lost items: Sparty organizers do not take responsibility for lost items. Use the provided storage facilities and inquire at Szechenyi Baths in person if something goes missing.
• Safety precautions: Jumping into the pools is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Such actions can cause injuries to yourself and others. Violators will be removed from the premises to maintain a safe environment for all attendees.
• No wandering off in restricted areas: Stay within the designated areas for Sparty. Entering closed-off areas is not allowed.
• Restrictions on inflatables and equipment: Large inflatables and equipment like swim boards, water pistols, and diving gear are prohibited. Small inflatables, arm floats, and mini vests are allowed.
• Payment method: You'll need a SpartyPay card for all payments at Sparty, including at the bars, and you can only top it up with cash. The starting amount is 20,000 HUF, which includes a 3,000 HUF deposit. So, be sure to bring cash to pay for the card.
• Refunds: Return your SpartyPay card at the end of the event for a refund of any remaining balance and the deposit. Refunds are only available on the night of the event. Ensure you handle this before the event ends to avoid losing your deposit and remaining balance.
• Photography: Photography for personal use is allowed. For professional or press-related photography, contact Sparty organizers at press@spartybooking.com in advance for an official permit. Sparty staff also take photos and videos at the event, and you might end up in some of them. By coming to the event, you agree that you won't claim any rights to those photos or videos.