Julien Ferrat, a 35-year-old city councillor in Mannheim, Germany, has publicly invited residents to a swingers party he wants to hold at the town hall, aiming to promote the city as a destination for nudist and swinger tourism. However, the city administration has responded that the event likely cannot take place there.
Councillor's plan for a 'swinger paradise'
Ferrat, who was elected to the city council in 2024 as a representative of the local Mannheimer party, is an open swinger and nudist. He has previously organized trips to Cap d'Agde in southern France, the world's most popular nudist resort. After one such trip, he saw an opportunity to attract nudists traveling to Cap d'Agde who might need an overnight stop.
'For people in northern Germany or Scandinavia, Cap d'Agde is too far to reach in one day,' Ferrat told Metro. 'If they are looking for somewhere to stay, we can attract them to Mannheim. If we can attract more nudists and swingers it would be a good way to create more income for the city of Mannheim.'
Ferrat has been promoting his plan across German media and says he has received positive responses. He estimated that around 50 locals have expressed interest, though he doubted all would participate. Among those interested is another local politician from a Mannheim district council, which is below the city council level.
City administration's response
The city administration, however, is 'not amused' by the proposal. A spokesperson said they assume the event 'cannot be held' at the town hall. In a statement, Mannheim City Administration told Metro: 'The City of Mannheim contacted Mr. Ferrat to obtain information about the event at the City Hall that he had announced in the media. Unfortunately, in his response he did not provide any of the specific information requested—neither a date nor a room, nor any indication of how the planned event relates to his mandate as a member of the municipal council. Based on the information, which remains very limited, the City assumes that the planned event cannot be held at City Hall.'
Ferrat claims he tried to advertise the party in the city's gazette but was denied, although the gazette did post an advertisement for his Cap d'Agde trip last year, which attracted nearly 30 participants. He argues that the town hall is 'perfectly suited' for such events and that there are 'no house rules or municipal bylaws that explicitly prohibit' them.
Legal threat and potential fallout
Ferrat, who does not dispute being labeled the 'craziest' local politician in Germany, is not backing down. He said: 'If they do not allow it, I will take legal action. If that doesn't work then I will hold it in a private place.' He also praised open relationships, saying they are 'the best' and allow people to have 'sexual adventures.'
The outcome hinges on whether the city formally denies the request. If denied, Ferrat's legal challenge could set a precedent for how municipal buildings are used for adult events in Germany. The city's stance suggests the party is unlikely to occur at the town hall, but Ferrat's determination indicates he will seek alternative venues to realize his vision of making Mannheim a 'swinger paradise.'
