The Krewe Of Swingtown, known as KOS, is a Texas lifestyle social group founded in 2005. It began as what it describes as the only lifestyle-oriented Mardi Gras krewe in the country and has grown into one of the state's larger lifestyle groups, based mostly around Houston but running events across Texas through the year. It says some of its events draw more than a thousand people.

It holds no premises. Its dates are staged in clubs, ranches and event properties it books, and it works with other lifestyle sites, clubs and groups to put them together. Its largest production is an annual weekend festival with camping, taking over a whole property for three days.

The group's own framing is deliberately unpretentious: it describes itself as laid back, welcoming whatever your size, shape or orientation, and says plainly that people who are full of themselves will not enjoy it. It aims at a low-pressure environment for newcomers and veterans alike.

Events are open to couples and single women, with limited admittance for single men on some dates. Dates, passes and membership are published on its own site. Check there for the next one, and browse our Houston guide for the area's venues and other party brands.