Budapest: A Bachanallian EDM Banger

Every picture you can find of Sparty (Spa+Party) Budapest, a wild rave set in an ancient Hungarian bathhouse, barely touches the surface of our wildest night in Budapest. Book with caution, thank us later.

Yeah, it's like that. (Photo from http://www.bathsbudapest.com/)

Budapest may not seem like the sexiest pick for a vacation, but the gorgeous capital of Hungary has become an increasingly popular, value-driven destination for travelers looking to get their tourist fix by day and party fix by night.

We recently assembled a squad for Sziget, a weeklong festival held just outside the center of the city. While the festival was a blast, much to our surprise, the wildest night of our trip far away from Sziget in an ancient Hungarian bathhouse not too far from our AirBnB. The name of the party is “SPArty Budapest,” and if you follow our lead and take part this insane event, you’ll be participating in something you’ll never forget, even if you’d prefer to.

The party takes place at Széchenyi, a magnificent thermal bath and largest of its kind in Europe. Every weekend (depending on season) this stunning, century-old Neo-Baroque bathhouse erupts into a giant rave at night, seething with European party animals and stocked with enough sights and sounds to send the most responsible traveler into a glow-in-the-dark, hedonistic frenzy.

As night arrives, each of the sprawling thermal pools occupying the house’s courtyard erupt into pool parties packed with patrons. Presiding from the center of the main pool is a centuries-old statue of Leda and the Swan, a classical mythological scene, and gigantic, blossoming, technicolor sea shell. Set like a pearl within the shell, a DJ commands the swirling chaos crashing before them, flanked on each side by fire dancers spinning and swinging blazing batons over a sea of ravers, transforming an ancient Hungarian heritage site into a bacchanalian banger that could pass for B-roll in a Baz Luhrmann flick.

Yes, it’s bonkers. No, we didn't check the pool's pH balance.

Leda, the Swan, and the Scene

This event isn’t for the faint of heart, nor will you find many party goers over the age of 30. But if you’re open to embracing the absurdity and channeling your inner semester abroad student, this is a bucket list item worth checking off.

While SPArty claims on their website that tickets can be purchased at the door, in our experience that wasn’t the case, so be sure to purchase a couple weeks ahead of time. They also offer express tickets and premium passes, however it’s best to opt for the normal ones that come with a locker. Along with saving a few bucks, you’ll have virtually the same level of access as VIP wristbands without the responsibility of holding down an inconveniently located table. As far as drinks go, you’ll be able to load up some euros on a waterproof wristband/drink card allowing you to leave your valuables in your locker for safekeeping.

Overall, this party is not for everyone -- especially if you’re privy to hand-sanitizer and a moderate sense of morality. However, once you've gotten a COVID shot, if you find yourself backpacking through Europe, or if you’ve ever considered visiting Budapest with a fun group of friends, this is an insane party you should plan sooner and thank us later.