American comedian and filmmaker Woody Allen once quipped: "I believe that sex is a beautiful thing between two people. Between five, it's fantastic." Belgians would appear to agree – perhaps excessively so.
Citizens are not only displaying increasing enthusiasm for polyamorous relationships and secretive erotic soirées, but Belgium is now poised to host Europe's largest orgy next year.
The event – entitled 'Mystery Sensation' – will host up to 10,000 people and will be held in Antwerp from 19:00 until 03:00 on 21 September 2024. (The exact venue will be revealed 24 hours prior to the event.)
Mystery Sensation's website promises attendees "the most sensational night of 2024" that will "redefine the boundaries of pleasure and sophistication."
"Mystery Sensation promises a night when the city of Antwerp is not only the Diamond of Europe, but also your playground," it adds. "This is your chance to shine, to party, to discover."
Areas for erotic encounters will include 150 mattresses and ten jacuzzis. 20,000 condoms will also be available to "ensure the promise of carefree and safe discovery."
In addition, a full three-course dinner will be prepared by "some of the best chefs" at the location's restaurant, while drinks and "exquisite snacks" will be available throughout the evening from multiple bars and lounges.
A vast 'playing area'
Event organiser Gert Snoeys, who has 35 years of experience in the event management sector and 20 years of experience specifically organising swingers events, says that the night will be unlike any he has previously planned.
"We will have a playing area of no less than 4,000 square metres," he told the Gazet van Antwerpen. "In it, there will be 25 themed rooms. Imagine a dark room, an exciting BDSM room, a cinema room, and, who knows, maybe even a room in the style of Little Red Riding Hood. Anything is possible."
Tickets went on sale on Thursday and start at €250 for single women and €695 for couples. Those with deeper pockets can fork out €1,350 for a 'VIP deluxe' ticket, which offers couples "exclusive access" to an after-party as well as an overnight stay at a nearby four-star hotel.
Those keen on attending are advised to purchase their tickets now, as those bought after 31 December will be €100 more expensive.
The dress code for men is black tie, while women are urged to wear their "most elegant" cocktail dresses. Attendees must be over the age of 21.
'The taboo seems to have disappeared'
Single men, however, are barred from attending the gathering – a decision strongly supported by Snoeys.
"We do not allow single men," he said. "That could result in a gang bang and then you no longer have a high-class party."
He also emphasised that attendees are by no means obliged to engage in sexual intercourse. "Everyone is welcome, of course. There are also many curious people who just want to experience the atmosphere. That's not a problem at all. No one is obliged to do anything."
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Finally, Snoeys expressed satisfaction that group sex gatherings have gained greater momentum and social acceptance in Belgium over the past few years.
"I wanted to organise something like this ten years ago, but it was too early back then," he said. "The taboo now seems to have disappeared for many people. It is talked about openly."
He added: "Swingers clubs in Belgium and the Netherlands attract many young people today. Couples aged 21 even prefer such a party to a typical disco evening."
