Top Nude Events Around the Globe

More and more people are discovering the joy of naked freedom. Shedding your clothes and embracing body positivity can be the ultimate de-stressor. While many find liberation on remote nude beaches or travel to foreign naturist resorts, there are plenty of events worldwide where you can experience the same sense of liberation without breaking the bank. Here’s our list of the top nude events from around the globe.

1. World Naked Bike Ride

Since its inception in 2003, the World Naked Bike Ride has focused on reducing our dependence on cars while emphasizing the vulnerability of cyclists and promoting body acceptance. What began as a protest has transformed into a vibrant carnival-like atmosphere.

Increasing public and media interest has led to the WNBR expanding to 70 cities in 20 countries around the globe—from Australia to the US, Brazil to the UK—with more cities hosting their own rides each year.

Although nudity is a central theme, “Bare as you Dare” is the guiding principle. Many riders sport creative body paint, while others may ride topless or completely nude. Do keep in mind that you’ll need to be dressed to get to and from the venue, so bringing a backpack for your clothes is advisable.

Participation levels vary based on location and weather; for instance, only a handful participated in Cape Town back in 2008, whereas Portland saw an impressive turnout of 10,000 in 2015. A typical WNBR event gathers a few hundred participants, with rides scheduled for July and March annually.

2. Bay to Breakers

If you prefer foot power to pedal power, consider the 7.46-mile (12km) run from San Francisco Bay through downtown to the breakers on the ocean coast.

This annual race takes place on the third Sunday in May (May 15, 2020). While it features elite athletes, it also serves as a massive street party, with many of the 70,000 runners, joggers, and walkers donning costumes or participating nude.

If the idea of running naked through a major urban area with thousands cheering you on excites your adventurous spirit, be sure to plan ahead for local accommodations, as the event sells out quickly!

3. Spencer Tunick Art Installations

Spencer Tunick is an American photographer known for his captivating “human installations”—large groups of naked individuals positioned in striking urban landscapes.

From Iceland to Russia and across the USA, Tunick has spent 25 years creating these unique art pieces. Though you’ll need to rise early and brave the chill, joining hundreds of like-minded individuals in the name of art is undeniably a memorable experience.

To engage in one of Tunick’s upcoming shoots, visit his website for registration details.

4. International Skinny Dip Day

For water lovers, this event is a must!

Designated by the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), International Skinny Dip Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of July, often aligning with National Nude Recreation Week. Events occur at numerous nudist resorts and nude beaches across North America and Europe. For specifics, check the AANR website.

If group events aren’t accessible to you, consider July 11, 2020, as the perfect opportunity to embrace naturism in your backyard pool or a secluded spot along a river or lake.

5. Burning Man

Every year, thousands gather at Nevada’s Black Rock Desert to build and subsequently dismantle a temporary city—an experience defined by creativity, art, and self-expression. Burning Man is less a festival and more an interactive experience where participants connect with themselves and each other.

This open environment allows for full freedom of expression. If you feel inclined to spend a week in the nude, this is your chance! Others around you will also be as liberally attired or undressed; here, it’s all about live and let live. Early ticket purchases are recommended; the next event will be held from August 30 to September 7, 2020.

6. Running of the Nudes

While the annual Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, is widely known, there’s a more tranquil and considerably safer alternative that takes place on the same route just two days prior.

The Running of the Nudes, largely an advocacy march dressed in support of animal rights and anti-bullfighting, sees participants clad in nothing but plastic horns or red scarves. If you are passionate about these causes, join this playful protest by shedding your clothes and raising awareness for a worthy issue.

7. Nude 5K Races

A growing number of naturist resorts have started organizing annual 5K races throughout the summer months.

The popularity of these events has surged, attracting runners of all levels—many of whom are experiencing the joys of running nude for the first time. Marketing for these races has even made its way into running magazines. A 5K offers a perfect opportunity to try social nudity while enjoying a physical challenge. Remember, gents, running naked is perfectly comfortable, and ladies should wear a sports bra if it makes them feel more at ease.

Typically, these races are “clothing optional” and are held within the confines of a nudist club, ensuring that fellow participants share the same objectives: to revel in the beauty of nature. Most resorts usually allow participants to enjoy the facilities for the remainder of the day.