A party squat, more commonly known as a squat party, refers to free parties with secret indoor locations. These events are typically unsanctioned gatherings held in disused or abandoned buildings, offering an alternative to commercial nightlife venues.
Understanding the Squat Party Phenomenon
The term "squat party" distinctly defines a specific type of gathering within the broader free party scene. While the use of the word "rave" had largely fallen out of fashion in Europe since the birth of town centre nightclubs, it has seen a resurgence in recent times, often in connection with these underground events.
Key Characteristics of a Squat Party
Squat parties are defined by several core elements that distinguish them from other types of events:
- Free Admission: A fundamental aspect of a squat party is that there is no entrance fee, making them accessible to everyone regardless of their financial means. This fosters an inclusive atmosphere, contrasting with commercial venues that charge for entry.
- Secret Indoor Locations: The events are held in non-commercial, often illicit, indoor spaces such as:
- Abandoned warehouses
- Disused factories
- Empty office blocks
- Other derelict or unoccupied properties
The secrecy is crucial for avoiding detection by authorities and property owners, allowing the party to continue undisturbed for as long as possible.
- Underground and Unsanctioned: Unlike licensed clubs or venues, squat parties operate outside legal frameworks. They do not have permits, security, or official infrastructure, relying instead on the communal effort and discretion of attendees.
The "Secret" Unveiled: How Locations are Shared
The clandestine nature of squat parties means their locations are rarely, if ever, publicly advertised. Instead, information is typically disseminated through:
- Word-of-Mouth: Personal invitations and trusted networks are primary methods for sharing details.
- Last-Minute Announcements: Locations might be revealed just hours before the event through dedicated phone lines, online forums, or encrypted messaging apps.
- Decentralized Communication: Flyers or online posts might hint at a general area, with the exact location disclosed only at a designated meeting point shortly before the party begins.
This method of communication adds to the allure and exclusivity, ensuring that only those truly interested and 'in the know' can attend.
Why Squat Parties Persist
Squat parties serve various purposes for their attendees and organizers:
- Alternative Culture: They provide a space for counter-culture movements and communities to express themselves freely, away from the commercial constraints and regulations of mainstream entertainment.
- Affordability: Being free to enter, they offer an accessible form of entertainment, especially for those who cannot afford the high prices of commercial clubs.
- Freedom and Expression: Without the limitations of official venues, organizers and attendees often enjoy greater freedom in terms of music choice, duration, and artistic expression.
- Reclaiming Space: By occupying disused spaces, squat parties can be seen as a temporary reclamation of urban areas, giving life to neglected properties.
Summary of Squat Party Attributes
To summarize the defining characteristics of a squat party:
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Secret, indoor, often abandoned properties |
| Admission | Free of charge |
| Legality | Unsanctioned, operating outside official permits |
| Atmosphere | Underground, communal, counter-culture |
| Purpose | Alternative entertainment, freedom of expression |
Squat parties, or party squats, represent a significant element of the underground music and free party scene, thriving on their secrecy, accessibility, and unique cultural appeal.
