A Festival for Consciousness, Love and Healthy Sexuality
A sex positive party like the Schwelle Festival combines sensual experience, personal growth and conscious encounter in a way that goes far beyond traditional parties. From October 13–18, 2026, the renowned event opens its doors—or rather its hearts—once again, inviting you into an atmosphere that unites retreat vibes, festival energy and profound bodywork. Some of the experiences on-site are also reflected in the “Swing Baby – my kinky little secret” books, which offer intimate insights into the world of desire, boundaries and curiosity.
What does sex positive mean?
Being sex positive means viewing sexuality as something natural, valuable and life-affirming. Instead of shame or judgment, openness, curiosity and a conscious approach to boundaries take center stage. People are allowed to express their individual needs, provided communication and mutual consent align. This creates a culture that not only enables freedom, but also promotes responsibility. This very attitude shapes the Schwelle Festival and creates a space where diversity is lived.
A Safe Space for Everyone
The Schwelle Festival is open to all gender identities and expressions, so that different people can feel equally welcome. At the same time, the number of participants is limited to 300 people to ensure an intimate atmosphere. The exclusive “Der Waldhof”—a 4-star resort in Zell am See—creates the ideal setting for workshops, sessions and nighttime events. All guests stay directly on-site, allowing a protected sense of community to emerge, and enjoy vegan or vegetarian cuisine.
The festival is aimed at people who want to connect more consciously with their own sexuality, discover new facets within themselves and unfold in a safe environment.
Reinhard Gaida, MSc, the founder of Schwelle, supports people in exploring conscious relationships, sexuality and bodily experience. With more than twenty years of experience in therapy, breathwork, hypnosis and conscious sexuality, he accompanies people on the path to their authentic self—toward more freedom, authenticity and joy in life, beyond shame and societal expectations.
Workshops, Playparties and Conscious Body Practice
Workshops play a central role at a sex positive party like the Schwelle Festival, as they offer orientation, safety and inspiration all at once. The program is diverse yet easily accessible, because international teachers and experienced facilitators convey topics such as consciousness, bodywork, sexuality and relationships. The offering is complemented by playparties, mindful sessions, talks and workshops on consent and safer sex. This creates an environment where people can dive into new experiences with clarity and trust. The program of the Schwelle Festival is diverse and profound, while remaining easily accessible. International teachers and experienced facilitators offer:
- Workshops on consciousness, bodywork, sexuality and relationships
- Playparties for explorative encounters
- Mindful sessions, talks and movement offerings
- Consent and safer sex workshops
The Schwelle Community stands for a responsible, non-judgmental and mindful approach to sexuality. This very mix of consciousness and openness makes the festival one of the outstanding events in the field of sex positive culture, as both depth and playful moments have their place here.
No-Gos That Are Never Accepted at a Sex Positive Party
The sex positive approach is primarily about shaping intimacy respectfully, freely and consciously. Communication forms the foundation so that encounters remain pleasant for everyone. It is also important to always ask for consent and set clear boundaries so that every person can feel safe. Another central aspect is personal responsibility, as every decision is actively made. No-gos arise wherever respect is lacking: transgressive behavior, pressure, alcohol abuse, manipulation or disregarding boundaries are absolutely taboo. Equally unwelcome are hidden expectations or the assumption that physical closeness is a given. At the Schwelle Festival, a very clear set of rules applies that protects everyone while enabling authentic, voluntary and beautiful experiences to be shared.
Safety First: SSC & Safer Sex
A genuine sex positive party is based on clarity, respect and consent, which is why the entire festival is oriented around the principle Safe – Sane – Consensual (SSC). This includes:
- no drugs
- no alcohol during workshops
- clear consent
- mutual responsibility
Safer sex also holds a high priority. Condoms, gloves and disinfectant are available so that encounters can proceed consciously and safely. Every person decides autonomously about boundaries and needs, allowing trust and stability to emerge.
Preparation & Must-Haves for Five Days of Ecstasy and Mindfulness
Those participating in the Schwelle Festival ideally bring openness, curiosity and a desire for connection. Additionally recommended are:
- Massage oil & lunghi
- Water bottle and comfortable clothing
- Party outfits & accessories
- Swimwear and sun protection
- Favorite toys, floggers, ropes
- Condoms & disinfectant
- Earplugs for rest periods
The diversity of experiences creates a balance between vibrant party moments, mindful workshops and quiet spaces like the Cuddle Space, which deliberately remains free of sexual activity so that all people can relax safely.
Sex Positive Party Experiences in the Swing Baby Books
The “Swing Baby – my kinky little secret” books tell of a journey into the world of conscious sexuality, where courage, curiosity and genuine encounters take center stage. The stories provide intimate insights into personal development, playful adventures and the special dynamic of sex positive spaces. The Schwelle Festival is also featured, as it is a place where many of these experiences arise and form into defining moments.
