The Burning Man festival in Black Rock City, Nevada has become one of the most well-known festivals in the world. There is some debate on what it’s all about; is it art, or is it one big social influencer event? Is it really that simple? It’s definitely more complex than that! This collection of photographs really displays a different angle of the Burning Man festival. Read further to take a peek at a few one of a kind snaps from the legendary event!
To Express Thyself
Efforts Of Saving Water
The myth that one can’t shower at Burning Man is about to get busted! You can, however, it is definitely not your conventional shower. We say “shower” but technically it’s a foam bath. It is a group event so I hope you’re comfortable with non-sexual nudity! The purpose of these types of activities is to encourage body acceptance and positivity while inviting conversations about boundaries and consent. The community is all about normalizing being human and bonding!
Efforts Of Saving Water
Photography
Burning Man is not the place for business but unfortunately, advertisers have cottoned on to loopholes. Many artists and influencers use photography from the event for promotional activities. Especially if a post-apocalyptic aesthetic is what they are looking for. The event is one of a kind backdrop. You cannot really blame people for wanting to take advantage of the epic scenery and surroundings, but they should still try to keep things humble and out of the way of the main events.
Photography
Accessories
Speaking of accessories, jewelry is one way to get noticed at the Burning Man. This photograph is a great example of the extremes accessories can be taken to. It’s certainly not a bad thing though! Jewelry is one of the most popular trading items and looking at this, it’s no surprise why! Whatever this woman is wearing, it must have taken a long time to put together, and a lot of money! We love seeing people's creativity and talent run wild.
Accessories
Alebrije
This exquisite sculpture is very much reminiscent of Alebrijes from the Pixar film ‘Coco’. Originating in Mexico, their creator Pedro Linares dreamt of an enchanted forest while he was ill. It is said that these colorful spirits serve as guides in the afterlife for those who have departed. One can obtain beautiful Alebrije figurines from Mexican natives. This is one stunning example of the many phenomenal cultures that are brought into the Burning Man experience.
Alebrije
Minimal
All that heat in the desert doesn’t just affect your make-up choices. When you get to the desert, you will immediately feel the urge to take all your clothes off, and this heat inspires many incredible decisions. It influences your wardrobe choices too. Many people opt to ditch clothing entirely and brave the desert in the nude but the more conservative festival-goers often choose the sensible bathing suit option. These queens of the desert look breathtaking in their feathered crowns and gold accessories.
Minimal
Sparkling Outfits
Rhinestones and sequins are a great way to catch the eyes of fellow party-goers. However, this is the desert and you may want to reconsider your strategy for Burning Man. These decorative items are very reflective and as such many people will complain about them. You need to find a way to achieve magnificence and individuality without being distracting or harmful. This is something you may want to leave in your closet at home. Keep it for the club!
Sparkling Outfits
To Express Thyself
Creativity in any shape or form is encouraged at Burning Man. Creativity for you could mean art or music, personalized gifts, or performances. For some people, their very presence could be their expression! Many Burners display their creativity in their flamboyant costumes and clothing choices, others choose to display their creative and flamboyant personalities by wearing no clothing at all. Whatever you decide to do, it should have a communal interest in mind, for the greater good.
To Express Thyself
The Kerchief
An invaluable item to bring along is a neckerchief. The desert air is dry and hot, even at night and this humble piece of cloth can make breathing that much easier! Don’t forget the sunglasses either! Take precautions as far as possible to avoid heatstroke - and be especially careful of alcohol consumption. This substance will dehydrate you very quickly when you add in all the other environmental factors. It is time to drink responsibly!
The Kerchief
Larger Camps
Burning Man is all about building relationships that can last a lifetime! Couples have met and found romance at the festival and friend groups have been formed in the camps that can accommodate hundreds of people! Group photos and even camp photos are popular keepsakes from the event. You may find that you never achieve the same kind of socialness as the one that you established at Burning Man. There are few places like it in the world!
Larger Camps
Dress To Express
Animal-themed costumes, motifs, and outfits are a frequent sight at the festival. Every person has their own story and it all forms part of the spirit of the event. Radical self-expression is the order of the day so throw on those ears and tails whether you’re a furry, a cosplayer, or just someone who feels cute in bunny ears! Bringing out your inner animal is all part of the experience, and is an incredible way to better understand yourself.
Dress To Express
Notable Tattoos
While tattooed humans are around you at every turn you sadly won’t be able to acquire any new ones at the event. While it might seem like a great idea in theory, in practice it is next to impossible to maintain sanitary conditions on the playa. Any self-respecting tattoo artist will tell you that their equipment and work conditions must be sterile. With this much sand blowing around, coupled with the intense heat, a new tattoo could easily become infected.
Notable Tattoos
A Family Gathering
Burning Man brings people together and you will forge your own family out in the desert. But that doesn’t stop siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins from all coming to the festival together to strengthen their existing bonds! It’s a family affair but unfortunately, no kiddos allowed as of recent years. Just looking at the pictures of the festival, it is obvious that this is not the most appropriate place for kids. They will need to wait a few years before they are granted access.
A Family Gathering
Getting Ready
While we have examined the art side of things quite thoroughly, we cannot neglect the fashion side of things. The festival is known for the eccentric clothing and costume choices the Burners prepare. Everything from full head-to-toe costumes to pieces like the above post-apocalyptic-inspired garments. This is a festival that is meant to look like a free and independent civilization, free of modern constraints and stresses. While this may all sound rather alarming to some, it is in truth an incredibly liberating experience.
Getting Ready
Revolutionary Embodiment
The festival has rules regarding participation - one of which states, "Anyone may be a part of Burning Man. We welcome and respect the stranger. No prerequisites exist for participation in our community." Burning Man welcomes one and all regardless, as long as you follow the rules. In spite of this welcoming policy, there is an underwhelming representation of certain groups at the festival and we’ll talk about that shortly. You might have guessed which groups will be mentioned...
Revolutionary Embodiment
Coat
Furs, I hear you ask? In the desert? Isn’t Burning Man eco-friendly? Yes, yes, and yes. Bring real furs to the desert would be foolish but also quite frowned upon so many creative costumes make use of faux fur or even wild rabbit fur. Burning Man apparently suffers under a problem of wild rabbits and so festival-goers are permitted to catch them for food and clothing. Certainly, you will see some people skinning, gutting, and cooking rabbits, and making strange accessories and garments out of their furs.
Coat
Luminaries
Remember those snazzy RVs we mentioned? While most celebrities remain aloof, others like Paris Hilton and Cara Delevigne (pictured) like to really get into the spirit of things and can be found at random throughout the festival. If you are lucky enough to run into a celebrity do remember that Burner etiquette requires you to use their playa names. Many everyday and modest people have randomly stumbled into all manner of incredible and famous people here.
Luminaries
Company Partnership
Burning Man does not permit corporate sponsors and advertising. One loophole, however, is to get your employees there as a representative for the company. Victoria’s Secret has made the most of this by sending its models to every event since 2016. The “angels” are usually incognito and go mostly unrecognized. Given how many phenomenally beautiful people attend Burning Man, it can be difficult to guess who is secretly working, and who is just having fun.
Company Partnership
Civic Obligation
You can’t charge for things at Burning Man. This means there are many scheduled events at the festival that can be attended for free such as performances, participation in the creation of art pieces, wine tasting, you name it! While free of charge they aren’t free of responsibility and so the activities, as well as their hosts, are bound by various laws in play. They must ensure that these laws are followed at all times and will be liable if any are broken.
Civic Obligation
Larger Than Life
“Burning Man 2019 was amazing in so many ways. It was my third year and likely my favorite so far as each year you start to better understand the parameters and limitations of the experience. For example: which fabrics repel dust and which attract it. Which foods reheat well and which do not. Can I wear heels while in drag or will I sink? The entire experience is not only a social experiment but also layered with smaller experiments of life in an alternate universe.” This was the experience related by Travis C. to Bored Panda.
Larger Than Life
The Burning Man
The weeklong event is crowned by the ritualistic burning of the man on Saturday. It is the culmination of the festival named for this action. Theresa Christine from INSIDER observed that “Many people know about the Man — the effigy after which the whole event is named —burn on Saturday, but fewer people realize the yin to this yang is the Temple burn. The Temple is a structure where Burners head to let go of things, whether it's pain from a lost friend or family member, a breakup with a partner, or the death of a pet.”
The Burning Man
Bartering
The barter system is one of the main features of the Burning Man festival. It originated at the beginning of the festival and was a simple trading of favors at first. Now gifting is widely encouraged in many forms. While there are many people that will use bartering as a means for survival and making their stay more enjoyable and comfortable, the focus has shifted from practical to reciprocal. You can expect to be blessed with all manner of trinkets and valuables!
Bartering
Bees
Very little is ever done at Burning Man without a very important meaning behind it. This sculpture of bees may be symbolic or a very literal homage to the plucky little insects that are responsible for the pollination of plants that contribute to 30% of the world's food resources. One of the best parts of Burning Man and its many mind-blowing sites is that you can form your own opinion of everything with plenty of individual enrichment.
Bees
Amazed By The Flames
With some tickets going for up to $1000 dollars, one might be tempted to think it is an overpriced music festival. Burning Man is so much more than that. It is a life-changing experience and one where you will witness human creativity at its peak. It holds something of value for every single person no matter their background, occupation or culture. You cannot put a price on the rich and wonderous growth and magic that you will gain going to a festival like this one.
Amazed By The Flames
Lights & Love
The desert is vast and seemingly endless which means people can easily become disoriented. So in 1991 neon lights became an addition to the Burning Man festival. Michael Mikel aka “Danger Ranger” formed The Black Rock Rangers and together they were responsible for safety as well as handling any incidences of violence. While this is a largely free experience, the event planners understand that the human element can get out of hand from time to time.
Lights & Love
No Mess, No Fuss
We revisit the Burning Man dictionary for yet another interesting word: MOOP. Technically an acronym, it stands for Matter Out Of Place. Volunteers clear the festival grounds of moop and festival-goers are responsible for their poop - and by that we mean to use the porta-potties available. If you soil the grounds with any waste you can be liable for a $125 ticket! We understand that when a human returns to nature in such an intense way that their faculties can get a bit out of hand, but try to keep it tidy!
No Mess, No Fuss
Festival Fitness
No matter your inclination you will find entertainment at Burning Man. Apart from regular art, music, and alcohol, you will find plenty of health-conscious activities to pass the time. Wanna keep up with that gym routine? There are fitness classes, pole dancing, yoga, roller skating, and even (for the very determined and brave Burner) a marathon! This is certainly a place that celebrates the beauty of the human body, and so you might feel inclined to begin exercising and eating healthily leading up to the event itself.
Festival Fitness
Peace In The Air
The principles and ideologies of Burning Man have not only inspired individuals but also businesses and leaders. The most famous of these would undoubtedly be Dustin Moskovitz, who followed the principle of radical inclusion by inviting the Winkelvoss twins to be a part of the Facebook venture. The idea was for these rules to help avoid unnecessary conflict and it did eventually work… The dramatized version of events can be seen in the film The Social Network (2010).
Peace In The Air
Become One With Your Inner Self
While the personal growth and relationships fostered at the event are very much real, the names certainly aren’t! Everyone has a Playa Name and not unlike schoolyard nicknames, you cannot choose your own. It must be given to you! The names are always given from a positive aspect, however, (which is very unlike the schoolyard) and really add to the community feel as well as your own understanding of self. People often learn the most about themselves through others.
Become One With Your Inner Self
No Avoiding Security
Yes, the Burning Man is a welcoming and inclusive event! But only if you paid your entrance fee. Cars entering the festival grounds will be checked by the event organizers/security for any sneaky stowaways! Don’t worry though, they won’t typically confiscate anything. Those trying to cheat the ticket person might face a different story, however. These security staff members have seen and dealt with every kind of stowaway strategy, so don't even think of trying your luck (or their patience).
No Avoiding Security
Incredible Bikes
The festival grounds are enormous and what better way to get around than an eco-friendly bicycle? Not only does it fit into the spirit of the event but you can also really exercise that creativity and self-expression! Paint it, decorate it, deck it out with feathers, bells, bling! It’s all up to you. Some Burners have specially dedicated bikes and even unicycles! There are many different modes of transportation at Burning Man that you may not see anywhere else in the world.
Incredible Bikes
Incredible Photography
With every passing year the sculptures, backdrops, participants and overall aesthetic get crazier and more outlandish. Is it any wonder that it’s a paradise for amateur and professional photographers alike? From eccentric artists to breathtaking light displays, flamboyant costumes and epic structures there is plenty to keep them busy. They must, however, register and sign a contract with the organizers. There are privacy concerns first and foremost but ultimately, Burning Man should be a liberating experience and organizers keep that in mind. If any photo is deemed objectionable they will be censored.
Incredible Photography
Unique Voice
If Burning Man is “just another event” then why do they have their own dictionary? As a Burner you don’t just show up, you have to put in some effort. If you are new to the festival that’s no excuse. Your fellow festival-goers will help you learn the language of Burning Man, most simple of which is their term for the land where it’s hosted - “playa” which means beach in Spanish. You do not need to be a linguistic professor to get to grips with the lingo.
Unique Voice
“Playa Foot”
The almost unworldly beauty of the festival grounds or “Playa” does not come without risks. The location is that of an ancient lake, long since dried up leaving only a highly alkaline residue that lays on top of the sand. One of the most common injuries at the festival is known as “playa foot” and occurs when a person is allergic to the residue and experiences a very painful reaction to it entering the body through a cut or an orifice.
Playa Foot
Blue Skies Up Above
One of the best things about being out in the desert and away from any sort of light pollution is the incredible view of the stars! To make the most of this a permanent structure was built in 2014 and called the Black Rock Observatory. With two 20-foot domes and a 20-inch telescope, festival-goers can peer into the night sky observing as far away as Jupiter and Saturn! Who knew that you could get some astronomy in at a festival?
Blue Skies Up Above
No Illegal Substances Tolerated
Under the rule of civic responsibility, illegal drugs are not permitted at Burning Man. Despite intensive efforts on the part of police and organizers, many drugs are still brought in. Especially psychedelics! Naturally, there are many festival-goers who really want to experience Burning Man sober, and to accommodate them there are special camps: most notably Anonymous Village and Run Free. All of the fun without any of the mind-altering consumables! You do not really need drugs at a place this psychedelic, anyway.
No Illegal Substances Tolerated
Enchanting Ballerina
Up next you are in for a treat! Some of the most astonishing and memorable projects ever exhibited at Burning Man. If you want to know who the artist is, prepare for disappointment as playa names are the order of the day and so the artists remain anonymous. This enormous 24-foot wooden ballerina appears suspended in front of the most beautiful backdrop in the world! A sunset more beautiful than any artist could paint illuminates this fantasy figurine and a perfect time photograph captures it forever.
Enchanting Ballerina
Amazing Experience
The female form is popular among sculptors and painters alike. This 50-foot metal and plexiglass woman is a beautiful experiment of light and shadows. The warm light of the sun on the horizon illuminates the figure that appears to be holding torches. Even without the weather effects, this is an incredibly lifelike and powerful sculpture. Now if you think the scale of this piece is impressive just wait until the next one! Keep reading to have your mind blown!
Amazing Experience
Woke
The most epic of all construction attempts at Burning Man has to be the Crude Awakening. An oil derrick nearly 100 feet tall was designed to produce a column of flame 1000 feet tall. In order to create this awe-inspiring performance, the artists used 900 gallons of jet fuel and 2000 gallons of liquid propane and it was one of the most impressive (and expensive) pieces to date. It drew a lot of criticism however because many felt that such wasteful use of fossil fuels was not in keeping with the spirit and ideologies of the Burning Man festival.
Woke
The Public Speaks
In response to the public outcry, the organizers did something really special. That same year they built permanent 30- and 50- watt solar arrays. The solar panels in these arrays create a carbon offset of 559 tons per annum. A creative and considerate response, and one that now provides almost all the non-user-generated power for the festival! Plus it’s pretty clever to use the sun in the desert! You can bet that there is a way to balance any outlandish stunt.
The Public Speaks
Play Place
Artificial light is a popular medium of many artists at Burning Man. From sculptors to costume creators, it allows them to create beautiful contrasts with the vast night sky of the desert all while remaining environmentally friendly. This particular piece is constructed to look like a playground jungle gym and its triangular shape is perfect for the character from Tron (1982) whom you can spy climbing the pyramid-like shape. You can bet that plenty of people unleash their inner child.
Play Place
Incredible Light Shark
This wicked looking shark is constructed from metal and LED tubing. It can be explored inside and out and like all other pieces are meant to be consumed by fire at the end of the festival. It is the most dramatic, but also the most simple way to dispose of the piece in order for the artist to remove any waste and adhere to the principle of “leave no trace”. You might think that this is a waste of time and effort, but all that matters is that they were there and affected people positively.
Incredible Light Shark
Sea Life Ablaze
Not keen on that digital fantasy feel? Plenty of artists like to rock it old-school style and use fire. Not only does it feel dramatic but it has the added benefit of being off the grid. No batteries required for this Mad Max-esque sculpture! Just the artist’s incredible talent and FIRE! How anyone comes up with a roving, flaming octopus is anyone's guess, but we are so happy that someone did. This is one of many astounding installations available at Burning Man.
Sea Life Ablaze
Joining
Some artists believe more is more and so we end up with these sorts of pieces which are nothing short of monuments! What appears to be a brightly lit up rocket ship can double as an observation deck with space to climb up to in the middle and the top! Artists continue to strive to outdo previous years and in 2018 there were 383 pieces place. Doubtless even more in 2019 although we don’t yet have the figures.
Joining
Burning Man’s Temple
The spiritual hub of the festival in the temple. It is arguably the most important structure at Burning Man. Here festival-goers can mourn loved ones, perform rituals, get married, and more. Pictured is the 2018 iteration of the temple which changes every year. One thing that does not change however is the ritual and symbolic burning of the temple at the end of the festival. This is a place where people can overcome traumas, realize who they truly are inside, and grow as individuals.
Burning Man’s Temple
Neon Lights & Enchantment
Your contribution doesn’t need to be a massive, imposing structure that’s 100 feet tall. No, some of the most beautiful and memorable ones are the simplest. Here is a beautiful LED adorned wire-frame structure that makes one think of a beautiful flower or perhaps a luminescent mushroom or jellyfish. Campers gather below it to appreciate and bask in the otherworldly glow. We would give anything to be reclining under this ethereal sea creature right now!
Neon Lights & Enchantment
Spidery Flames
Many of the unique sculptures seen around Burning Man are multi-functional. In keeping with the no-waste ethos of the event, the pieces are beautiful to observe, attract Burners to different camps thus encouraging mingling, and lastly (in the case of this spider) serve to provide warmth for the campers on cold desert nights. Do not worry, there is no scary secret to this sculpture, and no one will be trapped in a dangerous web with this enormous spider.
Spidery Flames
Legos & Rabbits
Looking like something straight out of a kiddies’ playpen, this modified truck has great joy ride potential. Many vehicles at Burning are modded and decked out in various ways. All part of that creativity and self-expression we keep talking about! While you will see vehicles of many shapes and sizes, you will not see guns! They are forbidden contraband at the festival. No one would need anything like that there anyway, as the only threats are thirst and overheating.
Legos & Rabbits
Massive Burning Man
If you ever doubted the sheer magnitude of the festival here is a photo of the campgrounds with the burning man effigy, signaling the end of the weeklong festivities. With accommodations for 70,000 people (in addition to staff), this festival is like no other and an absolutely incredible experience. While you cannot hope to meet all the people that attend, you will certainly feel their presence and combined energy. It really is a united experience of people coming together with a unified purpose.
Massive Burning Man
Gas Mask
This costume is both cute and eye-catching, as well as a powerful statement. Many Burners have strong beliefs regarding the environment and see the festival as an opportunity to further spread awareness and share their beliefs. Costumes like these that protest the killing of the planet are plentiful. Plus this clever little tableau also keeps the dust out of her face. Genius! We hope that this adventurer enjoyed her pure oxygen straight from the source!
Gas Mask
Facepaint
Fashion isn’t just about the clothing. Part of the whole aesthetic includes make-up and naturally, face painting! These two lovely people have opted for a more conservative look than some festival-goers. And it’s probably a wise choice considering the heat and sun aren’t great for maintaining elaborate looks. Not to mention the fact that you really need to wear some sunscreen! Still, the more dedicated performers will be clad head-to-toe in wonderful costumes and makeup.
Facepaint
Burning Man Reaches Hollywood
A pop culture phenomenon, Burning Man has had a huge impact on the media. A host of TV shows have referenced the festival including Murder in the First, Malcolm in the Middle and South Park. Movies and video games hopped on the bandwagon too with references to the festival in Knocked Up and the epic game “Watch Dogs 2". Even with all these references, it is hard to truly capture what Burning Man is unless you actually attend.
Burning Man Reaches Hollywood
Balance
Groups attending the festival together often choose a theme for the clothing they wear. Themes are still in keeping with the spirit of the festival and embrace each individual’s creativity. Unlike a uniform that would be very much out of place. Whether it's similar colors or, as these ladies chose, similar styles - they all look great with these parasols to protect from the desert heat. Whatever you end up choosing as your theme, make sure that it is freeing, funky, and fabulous.
Balance
Burning Man’s High Priest
While you won’t find any formal religious groups or representations at the festival, spiritual experiences abound. Practicing meditation, dealing with loss, creating positive vibes are all ways people partake in the spiritual at Burning Man. Outfits that are pseudo-religious, or take inspiration from specific religious entities are popular and are a way that many people choose to share their beliefs. The 'New Age' culture thrives at Burning Man, where all manner of spiritual folks get together to share their beliefs and values.
Burning Man’s High Priest
Leaving
We suspect that Captain Jack Sparrow would have appreciated this costume choice! As well as this mode of transport. While it is not easy to obtain fuel in the desert, there are many suitable options for motorized transport at the festival. You do not need to stick to the trusty bicycle, as there are plenty of inexpensive and convenient ways to get around that do not involve cars. You can look at some of the more incredible examples of Burning Man transportation for inspiration.
Leaving
Celebration
Birds of a feather flock together and there are plenty of “birds” to be found at the festival! Feathers are a very popular choice of adornment and here we can see why! Wings, headgear, tribal-inspired clothing, they can all benefit from the application of feathers. While most often the result is beautiful, sometimes that is not what the wearers are after! Each person that puts in this much effort has all manner of personal details and thoughts put into their costumes.
Celebration
Incredible Crowns
Elaborate headgear is absolutely part and parcel of the Burning Man experience. From feathered caps to bonnets, top hats to steampunk helmets they all look amazing. It’s a great excuse to be as over the top as your heart desires! No one will judge your hat choice here. Headgear also serves a practical function of course, in that it keeps much of the sun's heat and intensity off your head and face. A nasty sunburn is the last thing that you want to let ruin your time here!
Incredible Crowns
EDM
This beautiful Burner is here representing the Industrial EDM community. With her neon colors, huge hairpiece, and practical (yet cleverly placed) water bottle she is having a wonderful time! You can almost hear the thumping bass! If you are a fan of electronic music then Burning Man is the place to be, where almost every subgenre can be found and danced to, such as drum and bass, dubstep, techno, trance, and the more experimental types that are difficult to categorize.
EDM
Exotic Hair
Brightly colored hair has become more and more popular over the years and can be seen almost anywhere you go. Burning Man is not exempt from this trend, in fact, people can really go wild here! Neon, Day-Glo, metallic, color-coordinated with your outfit? Yes, please! Of course, you can leave your hair the way it is, but this is your opportunity to turn yourself into anything that you like. The sky is the limit here.
Exotic Hair
All Welcomed
Colors aren’t just an aesthetic choice! They can help you find your tribe. These two Burners might have planned this synchronized look as part of a group. Or perhaps they spotted each other across the playa (not difficult with that particular shocking shade of pink) and knew they had to meet! Either way, they are looking very happy about it. They say that 'your vibe attracts your tribe' and this spiritual sentiment is very evident at Burning Man.
All Welcomed
To The Extremes
Day and night in the desert are a stark contrast. Is it any surprise that people take advantage of this for costume changes too? The heat of the day would make it impossible to survive in this head to toe praying mantis costume. At night, however, the temperatures cool and Burners can take advantage of that to display more of their creative sides to the world.
To The Extremes
Participation is a requirement of the visitors to the festival, something not often observed with these sorts of festivals. Participation can be achieved in a number of different ways, from volunteering to creating art. Art at the festival is often an activity rather than just a visual experience, as can be seen by this interesting ladder. The precariously dangling rocks don’t seem to intimidate everyone and so makes a stunning picture! We would love to give this ride a go, any time.
The Dangerous Ladder
The Dangerous Ladder
Distinction
While this Radical Inclusion clause exists to encourage diversity, the event has been widely criticized for the lack of it. In a 2014 survey, some shocking statistics were revealed. The attendees of the festival were made up of 87% white people with the remaining percentage being split 6% each for Latino and Asian festival-goers and a shocking 1% of black folk. Larry Harvey stated at one point that “I don’t think black folks like to camp as much as white folks… We’re not going to set racial quotas… This has never been imagined by us as a utopian society ”.
Distinction
Progressive Independence
The festival location is not one that is considered comfortable by any means, it is in the desert after all. Given the setup Burners are expected to bring any special accommodations they might need along - it’s impossible to cater for specific dietary requirements or medication for so many different people. While most commodities can be traded among your fellow Burners, some items are not permitted because liability can become a serious matter if something goes wrong.
Progressive Independence
A Seasonal Ritual
In the summer of 1986, somewhere on a beach in San Francisco, a man built a 9-foot wooden sculpture of a man only to burn it. That man was Larry Harvey and for he and his friends this developed into a yearly event. As the years went by the number of people grew and so did the sculpture. What started out as 9 feet in 1986 grew to 15 feet in 1987, and two years later it was three times taller!
A Seasonal Ritual
No Rules Necessary
Another of the core tenets of the Burning Man Festival is "Leave No Trace". After the festival, there shouldn’t be any trash to be seen! Unfortunately, this rule has been disregarded in recent years and the festival has drawn criticism from organizations like Sierra Club who are all about protecting the environment. Accusations of discarding astronomical numbers of water bottles as well as dumping trash around San Francisco have been levied by the organization and local residents alike
No Rules Necessary
Innocence And Purity
Another word in your Burning Man dictionary is “virgin” - what first-timers are dubbed upon arrival. To enter the festival they must perform a simple ritual: roll in the sand and proclaim loudly “I’m not a virgin anymore” three times. Hugs are plentiful but are a required greeting for first-timers! Throughout the entire weekend they are part of greetings and should that prove insufficient you can always visit the “Hug Deli” to experience more variety!
Innocence And Purity
The Art Of Sharing
Can you actually buy anything at Burning Man? Yes, iced coffee! That might seem worrying but don’t fret. Specific camps are set up for the purpose of trading and there you can go about your haggling and bargaining with fellow festival-goers. Sharing and caring are part of the festival’s core foundations and so attendees are more than willing to participate. That does not mean that you should not keep your wits about you, as no one likes being ripped off.
The Art Of Sharing
Allowance
It’s not just all about song and dance at the festival. There is a time for everything, even mourning. A temple is built for this purpose and Burners who have lost loved ones can grieve at the temple and write letters that will be left in the temple to be burned at the end of the festival. It is a touching ritual and many people choose to spread the ashes of the departed at the site.
Allowance
More Than Merely Tree Huggers
Remember that inclusion clause? You won’t find just hippies at Burning Man. Even the rich and famous can be found at the desert festival, escaping their busy lives. Their camps are luxurious and can be identified by the RVs, specially built beds and air conditioning. Some of them go so far as to bring personal staff such as bodyguards and chefs! There’s nothing like the comforts of home right? They are quite exclusive though and don’t really mix with the other participants.
More Than Merely Tree Huggers
Diminished Spirits
The general vibe of Burning Man is one of a return to the simple things in life. Part of the experience is trading, exploring, experimenting, roughing it! While Larry Harvey’s principles for the event are non-discriminatory many Burners feel that the luxury camps are breaking the rules with their exclusivity and isolation and so are ruining what the festival is all about. Sadly, most phenomenal and popular things in life will be turned into a money-making opportunity at some stage.
Diminished Spirits
Branching Out
If you cannot attend the iconic festival in Nevada there are many alternatives! Burning Man has inspired a host of other festivals around the world! While not all of them are affiliated you can experience festivals held in the same spirit as Burning Man in South Africa (Afrikaburn), Israel (Midburn), China, Australia, Germany, and even Argentina. You can bet that the same spirit, fun, and energy can be found in the imitator festivals, but there is only one Burning Man.
Branching Out
Expanding Repute
1991 was also the year that Harvey acquired a permit for hosting the festival and 250 people attended. The growth was exponential however and by 1995 about 4000 festival-goers were counted. 1997 saw that number more than doubled with 10,000 people, which then skyrocketed to 25,000 people in the year 2000. Ten years later the event sees more than 50,000 Burners attend the festival. We wonder whether Harvey foresaw how explosively popular this movement would become.
Expanding Repute
Together We Can Make A Difference
Burning Man is all about fostering a sense of community, a Burner in need has many friends indeed. Most participants will do whatever they can to help their fellows, from food and water to a listening ear and a comforting hug! Someone is always ready to help, regardless of the situation and participants are encouraged to be compassionate and supportive. As much as Burning Man is meant to be fun and thrilling, it is also meant to be a healing experience for all.
Together We Can Make A Difference
Nothing Is Left Behind
One rule is not left open to interpretation: Leave No Trace. It is very simple. If someone happened upon the festival grounds after everything is over and everyone has left, there should be no trace of them to be found. In fact, leaving the place better than you found it is the goal! No trash, equipment, food or waste of any kind should be left behind. We only wish that more people felt this way in their daily lives.
Nothing Is Left Behind
Urgency
When you visit Burning Man you’ll be experiencing something memorable for a lifetime. Part of achieving this means forgetting about the outside world and living in the moment. The festival’s natural environment, welcoming community, and loving acceptance is meant to nourish every Burner as they seize the moment to discover their true selves. You can learn so much about yourself when you are removed from your mundane situation and thrust into a wonderfully alien one.
Urgency
Partners
This particular sculpture is iconic to Burning Man and while it may be true that bringing art to the festival ends up being an expensive venture, there are some common misconceptions. “It's a myth that you barter at Burning Man and must always have something to trade in order to receive something. As an attendee, you are given the responsibility of bringing a gift to share with people.” ~Theresa Christine, INSIDER. What would your contribution be?
Partners
Mariposa
This exquisite piece entitled “Mariposa”, was created by New York artist Chris Carnabuci. It means “little butterfly” and really captures the sense of emerging into freedom. Freedom is really felt out here in the desert and coupled with the beautiful colors this sculpture revealed at night, made for an enchanting experience. You can also expect to undergo a metamorphosis of sorts, where you truly come out of your shell. You never know what is hiding inside of you, waiting for the perfect opportunity to come out!
Mariposa
Welcomed Entirely
So many artworks are designed to burn and illuminate the darkness of the desert at night. This piece stands out from the crowd because of the incredible polish and play of light and shadows you could see in the daytime. Artist Michael Benisty created it from steel and polished it by hand to achieve the almost liquid appearance of this sculpture. You could spend all your time at the Burning Man festival appreciating as many art installations as possible and still only scrape the surface.
Welcomed Entirely
Gifts
Gift giving is the currency of Burning Man since cash exchanges are banned at the festival. When Burning Man was in its infancy people traded favors, however now it has developed into a bartering system where all kinds of things are traded including physical goods. But there are many exchanges that cannot be commodified, such as sitting and listening to someone speak about their inner fears, walking someone to their shelter, and keeping an eye out for anyone in need.
Gifts
Van der Graaf
Remember that weird thing in the back of the science class in high school? Or maybe you remember the musical Van der Graf generator in that fantasy movie : The Sorcerer’s Apprentice”? Well, here you can experience one on a massive scale! It is very apparent that there is no limit to who can attend this festival and it’s certainly not just for celebrities and influencers. Anything that you could imagine has a very high chance of appearing physically at Burning Man.
Van Der Graaf
Regional Laws
With each passing year and the massive growth, the festival experienced it became more and more apparent that rules would be needed. Larry Harvey came up with the ten commandments of Burning Man: radical inclusion, gifting, decommodification, radical self-reliance, radical self-expression, communal effort, civic responsibility, leaving no trace, participation, and immediacy. This would prevent a mad descent into chaos, and without some kind of order, the increasing size of the festival would lead to possible anarchy.
Regional Laws
Coffee And Lemonade
You will not find stalls selling items at the festival. The only things to purchase are coffee and lemonade at the center camp. Instead, Burners rely on the tradition of gifting for anything they need or might have forgotten to bring. From food to art, to a relaxing massage you can barter anything amongst the friendly campers. To be safe, however, you should remember to bring as many essentials as you can, with some to spare for those who didn't.
Coffee And Lemonade
Express Yourself
Bring your A-game to the festival by dressing up to express your best inner place - this is a judgment-free zone! Just remember not to bring unnecessary attention to yourself by being needlessly loud, obnoxious, or abrasive in your appearance and behavior. With great freedom comes great responsibility, and keeping the needs and comforts of your fellow person in mind is essential. Empathy is an essential property of any Burner, and there are many people that attend just to express their generosity and compassion.
Express Yourself
Support
While sharing and trading amongst each other is commonplace at the festival, this is not the only way festival attendees are encouraged to participate. Burning Man operates on the idea that participation on a deep and personal level can bring about change in the individual as well as society. Newcomers are enthusiastically initiated in the ways of Burning Man: learning the lingo and making new friends. You truly enter another world when you enter the festival grounds, one that wants you to be a part of it.
Support
Wind In Your Hair
Run wild and feel free! Burning Man festival is a judgment-free zone where all welcome and embraced. The ultimate place to express your art your believes and way of living. Look no further- this is where you go to be true to yourself. Learn from others, be inspired, and help out as much as you can. There are many experiences here that are almost impossible to be gained anywhere else in the world. Welcome to your emancipation!
Wind In Your Hair