No, they do not require it. But, it is a feature. And if they login, they have access to my backend. All I want is for them to have access to events – to be able to update their RSVPs if needed.
So, I updated my WP general so anyone could sign in and I tried it. That took me to the backend of my site! They cannot go there. All they want to do is RSVP. Really. This has to be easier for how I am spending. BTW, I turned it back off so no one could get into my backend.
First please do a screen shot of where I would turn off the “find events button” My web designer would strongly advise me against reverting back to older WP versions.