Join Operation Handshake

Uniting under the sun: a call for camaraderie and collaboration among nudist groups in the west

Courtesy of Glen Eden Sun Club

The stage is set for an impactful gathering of nudists at the venerable Glen Eden Sun Club in Temescal Valley, CA, from June 14th to 16th. Dubbed “Operation Handshake,” this event promises to be a landmark moment for the nudist community in the western region. With a weekend packed with activities like a welcome reception, a BBQ cookoff, and collaborative hikes, this event is a renewed call for community and connection among naturists. With a rich history and a revitalized mission, the event is now calling for participation from landed and non-landed clubs alike from throughout the western region and beyond.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to join in and make this event a success.

History repeats itself

Operation Handshake dates back to the 1960s, initiated by the Western Sunbathing Association, now AANR-West, to quell discord and promote unity among nudist clubs. The 1969 event at Glen Eden, shaped by the club’s founder Ray Connett, created a legacy of unity despite challenging circumstances, especially among non-landed clubs. But soon after, the event disappeared. Fast forward to today, amidst recent upheavals in California’s nudist spaces, inspiration has struck to bring this historic event back. Glen Eden is poised to host this unity-focused event, reviving the spirit of cooperation and collective enjoyment that once defined this historic gathering.

Check out our previous post if you’re interested in more about the history of Operation Handshake:

A call for unity (and nudity) in California

Participation details

This year’s Operation Handshake invites clubs and individuals to a weekend of activities and discussions centered on nudist camaraderie and the community’s future. Here’s what you need to know:

• Dates: June 14-16, 2024

• Location: Glen Eden Sun Club, Temescal Valley, CA

• Incentives: Reduced gate fees, including 50% off for first-timers on the first day, free entry on the second day, and just $10 on the third. Repeat visitors enjoy a flat rate of $10 per day.

• Accommodations: A group dry camp area will be set up, details to be confirmed based on participant numbers.

• Schedule Highlights: Welcome Reception on Friday, brunch, opening session, BBQ cook off on Saturday, nude hiking, other presentations throughout the weekend. There will be many activities you can enjoy sponsored by Glen Eden, AANR West, and other community partners. 

• Post-Event Perks: Participants from non-landed clubs can avail themselves of the Commuter membership rate at Glen Eden, a significant savings.

Join Operation Handshake 🤝

We urge all nudist clubs in the western region to seize this opportunity for renewal and engagement. Operation Handshake aims not just to reunite old friends but to forge new alliances and strengthen our collective commitment to nudism. Clubs from other regions are also encouraged to consider hosting similar events. If interested in collaborating under “Operation Handshake” to enhance community bonds in your region, please reach out to us.

Together, we can foster a more unified, vibrant future for nudism. Join us in making history at Glen Eden this June—let’s shake hands with the past and walk together towards a promising future. 🪐

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Let us know if you're coming

As we prepare for a memorable weekend at Glen Eden, we want to ensure that everyone who is interested has all the information they need to join us. Please RSVP to confirm your attendance and help us tailor the experience to best suit our community. By letting us know you're coming, you'll help us organize a smoother and more engaging event for all attendees.

We look forward to seeing you at Operation Handshake. 🤝