A swingers party is where a more-or-less evenly-balanced number of male-female couples meet to swap partners. This may be as a group of friends, on a commercial basis, or organised through the internet (see my page on online swingers' groups). There is enormous diversity in the format, etiquette, and expectations at parties; every party is different, so it can be difficult to make comparisons between them. For example:
- male-male sex may be frowned upon at some parties, while it is accepted at more enlightened venues
- some parties are held in private houses, some move to a different location each time, and others are held in dedicated premises
- erotic dress (usually defined as something you'd feel uncomfortable wearing down the street, such as lingerie or a leather g-string) is often required after a certain time, or there may be no particular dress requirements
- some parties have a definite cut-off time, while others go until after daybreak. Personally I think that is stupid because if you haven't had your fill by about 3am, then something's clearly not working for you, and I find I'm rooted the next day as well.

Because of this diversity, is difficult to make overall comments. However, almost all parties have the following in common:
- no means no, and you ask before you play
- safe sex is required
- if one partner in a couple leaves the party, then the other partner goes with them
- bookings are essential. You may be given a telephone number to call on the day of the party to get the location.

Related activities include gangbangs and bukkake parties (which make no attempt at gender balance) and erotic balls (which, unlike swingers parties, may or may not include a play component).

A directory can be found at vixen.com.au (although some contact details are not current). This page is really good, but it will not open for me; hopefully you have better luck, because it is very good.
 
Remember that if you are in a loving, committed relationship there may be emotional issues which you will have to deal with. These include, most obviously, jealousy. Swinging is not an activity to be taken up lightly, and you should also read my thoughts on emotional aspects of group sex.

For more on single guys at swingers' parties, read the single guy's page.
For help for first-timers at swingers' parties, read the first-timer's page.

The location descriptions given below are deliberately vague.