BURNING MAN

‘Black Rock City’, Nevada, USA — September 3rd-5th

The official site for Burning Man describes the event as “a city in the desert dedicated to radical self reliance, radical self-expression and art.” Even that description cannot do Burning Man justice, however; there is just too much going on. Basically 50,000+ people swarm to the middle-of-no-where, Nevada and build a temporary city that they call Black Rock City. Those who attend are simply expected to contribute whatever they can to the Burning Man community.

The name gets its roots from the giant wooden effigy that is ritually burned every year (as seen below). There is also a temple that has constructed and burned every year since 2000. Artists construct huge art pieces all over Black Rock City and music is always being played by musicians. Nudity and psychedelic drugs are very prevalent. Need I say more?

Burning Man

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The Festival of the Burning Man is one of the most unique festivals. Drawing crowds of over 20,000 each year from all over the world, the celebration is of art, creativity and humanity. Unlike most other festivals in the world, this one has no commerce; no shops, no rock stars, no rollercoasters. It is simply a gathering, albeit a very large one. The Black Rock Desert, two or three hours north of Reno is the setting. The serenity of the place allows festival goers the environment to feel uninhibited and expressive. The emphasis is on community and people helping one another and all who attend do so in friendship. And on the last day, the bonfire of the Burning Man takes place setting the skies alight in fire while the community dances around. Due to the non-commercial nature of the festival, those attending are advised to bring everything they might need for themselves with them, as little or nothing will be available. The art theme for 2010 is 'Metropolis'.

Venue: Black Rock Desert
Date: 29 August to 5 September 2011