Party review: Carnival of Creatures by Pinky Promise

Earlier this month, I have went to Pinky Promise for the first time Pinky Promise. They are a collective of sensual deviants who run all sorts of events, from pleasure parties and intimate workshops to cabaret shows and festival stages throughout the year.

They are also very consent-focused. Guests are required to complete a consent form in advance to secure entry, and a valid photo ID is checked on arrival. Two very reassuring green flags in my book.

THEME: This edition was titled Carnival of Creatures, created in honour of David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. Of course the entire venue was fully decorated. Gotta love that.

TIMING: Doors opened at 10pm, although the queue had formed well before then. We arrived at 9.45pm (slightly overenthusiastic, perhaps) and were inside quickly. By 10.30pm, the party was already in full swing, and by midnight the venue was packed.

VENUE: The event took place at Electrowerkz in Angel. It is a large, multi-room venue and almost all spaces were in use. There were four bars spread across the building, a spacious cloakroom on the top floor, and two large dance floors: The Coral’s Cradle, which hosted cabaret performances and DJs, and Nectar’s Hive, dedicated to DJs and dance acts. In the ground floor courtyard, guests could browse the Naturalist’s Bazaar, featuring a handful of vendors selling cookies, clothing, and accessories, as well as a live portrait station by the talented InkyLayla.

MUSIC: Here is the DJ line-up Renee – Harpriya – LAGOON – Philippo – Blissy E – Mimi Rich – Bad Pal Lilli

DUNGEON MONITOR: The dungeon monitors were genuinely lovely. I spoke to a couple of them during the evening and they were warm, approachable, and clearly experienced. Before entering any play space, a monitor gives guests a briefing and ensures everyone understands the rules and expectations.

KINKY SPACES: The venue offered quite a few dedicated play and chill-out areas. Downstairs, the Serpent’s Nest was a large play room next to the courtyard, equipped with beds and sofas, as well as condoms, cleaning supplies, and lube. Near the smoking area was the Pleasure Parlour, a cuddle and workshop space with a large rug where guests could relax. Finally, upstairs, the Feral Abyss served as the main dungeon and play room, featuring bondage horses, spanking benches, a St Andrew’s Cross, a sex swing, and several large beds (and the usual basket full of condoms, cleaning supplies, and lube).

ACTIVITIES: A number of workshops were held throughout the evening, although I did not manage to attend any because I spent most of the night catching up with friends. Sessions included the Art of Tease by Adreena Angela, Performing with Pwide by Bwyan the Lion, and Sassy Strip & Tease by Bethany Sassy.

GUESTS: The crowd skewed mainly Millennial and Gen Z, though there were also plenty of Gen X attendees and a sprinkling of older guests. Overall, it was a fantastic mix. Everyone seemed friendly and open, and it was easy to strike up conversations at the bar or on the dance floor. Many people attended in groups, and there were plenty of couples as well.

DRESS CODE: As with most kinky parties, streetwear was not allowed, nor were police or military uniforms. The organisers also explicitly prohibited cultural appropriation and LED lights, the latter for safety reasons. Guests had clearly put a huge amount of effort into their outfits. The organisers shared a Pinterest inspiration board beforehand, and many attendees combined sexy lingerie with elaborate accessories. Some costumes were exceptionally creative, turning the venue into a wonderfully decadent urban jungle. That said, not everyone went all out, so there is no need to feel intimidated if this is your first event. Starting with something simple is perfectly fine, and you will no doubt leave with plenty of ideas for next time.

VIBES: The atmosphere strongly reminded me of Rumpus, which is very much a compliment. Rumpus events were colourful, playful, and gloriously chaotic in the best possible way, and Pinky Promise captured a similar spirit. This was a busy event, but it felt warm and welcoming. If you had attended solo, I suspect you would have left with several new friends. I reviewed a few in the past (review 1 and review 2). 

OTHER RULES: As expected, photography by guests was not allowed. Official photographers were present throughout the evening and were happy to take pictures if asked. Further details about Pinky Promise and their house rules can be found on here.