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9 Naked Festivals Around the World You Didn’t Know Existed (But Might Want to Join)

Every summer, while most people are deciding what to wear to festivals, others are stripping down, literally. From body-positive bike rides to ancient traditions, there are events across the globe that invite attendees to let it all hang out. Whether you’re a curious onlooker or ready to bare it all, these 9 naked festivals prove that sometimes, less really is more.

1. World Naked Bike Ride – Portland, Oregon, USA

what did you say? I cant hear you? surprise.
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Portland’s version of the global World Naked Bike Ride is one of the largest, often drawing over 10,000 nude and semi-nude cyclists. It’s a wild, joyful protest against car culture and oil dependency, but also a celebration of body freedom. Costumes, glitter, and body paint are encouraged—but clothes are strictly optional.

2. Roskilde Festival Naked Run – Roskilde, Denmark

naked runner.
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At Denmark’s legendary Roskilde music festival, brave attendees take part in a fully nude footrace across the festival grounds. The winners (one male and one female) receive a free ticket to next year’s event. It’s part silly tradition, part badge of honor.

3. Hadaka Matsuri – Okayama, Japan

Naked festivals.
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One of the oldest naked festivals in the world, the Hadaka Matsuri (“Naked Festival”) in Japan has been around for over 500 years. Thousands of nearly nude men wearing only traditional loincloths gather in freezing February temperatures to chase sacred sticks thrown by a priest. The event is thought to bring luck and purification.

4. Burning Man – Black Rock Desert, Nevada, USA

Burning man.
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While not officially a “naked festival,” nudity is common and accepted at Burning Man, where radical self-expression reigns. Body paint, glitter, and nothing at all are common sights as attendees live off-grid for a week in the Nevada desert.

5. World Naked Gardening Day – Global

naked gardening.
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Held the first Saturday in May, this quirky event isn’t tied to one location but invites people around the world to tend to their plants in the buff. It’s all about connecting with nature—and your tomato plants—without the barrier of clothing.

6. Fremantle Nude Bike Ride – Fremantle, Australia

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A sister event to Portland’s ride, this Aussie version is part protest, part performance art, and all bare skin. It’s a joyful, cheeky celebration of cycling, self-love, and environmental awareness held annually in Western Australia.

7. World Naked Sailing Day – Croatia

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Oleg Elkov via Shutterstock.

Croatia’s stunning coast plays host to nude sailing groups throughout the summer, and some cruises have embraced “Naked Sailing Day” as an unofficial holiday at sea. Sunscreen is a must, and so is an open mind.

8. Maslin Beach Nude Olympics – South Australia

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Marcin Moryc via Shutterstock.

At Australia’s oldest official nude beach, folks gather each year for a tongue-in-cheek “Nude Olympics,” which features events like nude sack races and three-legged races. It’s body-positive, inclusive, and totally uninhibited.

9. Wreck Beach Bare Buns Run – Vancouver, Canada

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Ja Crispy via Shutterstock.

Vancouver’s famous clothing-optional beach hosts an annual “Bare Buns Run,” a short race that’s long on confidence and community spirit. Open to all body types, the event promotes acceptance and fun, no running shoes required (but recommended).

Are You Going?

Yes, No, Maybe.
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These festivals aren’t just about nudity; they’re about freedom, expression, and challenging social norms. Whether you’re looking to embrace your natural self, make a political statement, or just have some unforgettable fun, these events offer a place where everyone is welcome—no outfit necessary.

In Full Bloom: A Traveler’s Guide to Must See Flower Festivals Around The World

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Flower festivals are celebrated around the world to admire the beauty of tulips, roses, cherry blossoms and all kinds of flowers in full bloom. These festivals often feature vibrant displays of varieties, as well as cultural events, music, food, and more. Here are some notable festivals from different parts of the world. Have you attended any?

READ: In Full Bloom: A Traveler’s Guide to Must See Flower Festivals Around The World

Bucket List Item: Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary

Standing-in-awe-at-Warner_Valley-Overlook_creditJoeyHamilton.
Image credit DarkSky.org

Hopefully all of you have had the experience of gazing into the night sky in dark surroundings, so that you could take advantage of the stars, planets and cosmos. Unfortunately, manmade lights often interfere – it is called light pollution for a reason – but did you know that the U.S. can now claim the largest international dark sky sanctuary? You will have to travel to Oregon to take advantage, but it is worth the trip. READ: Bucket List Item: Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary

Author

  • Dede Wilson Headshot Circle

    Dédé Wilson is a journalist with over 17 cookbooks to her name and is the co-founder and managing partner of the digital media partnership Shift Works Partners LLC, currently publishing through two online media brands, FODMAP Everyday® and The Queen Zone.

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