News of the Nude, May 2024
A bountiful bundle of body-positive and bare-themed stories from the past month
Welcome, readers, to the May 2024 edition of News of the Nude. It was a crazy month in nudist news! So much is happening all at once. There’s no “Top Five” video this month, I’m sorry to say. Things were so busy that I just couldn’t get to it. The good news is that most of the things taking up all my time lately still add value to this newsletter in other places, so hopefully, all will be made up for and then some. Case in point, with over two dozen headlines below from the news this month, this is quite possibly our longest edition of News of the Nude to date.
Told you! Busy!!
One of those projects that has kept me busy lately has been planning our Skinny Dip event taking place this July at Bates Beach!
I was super excited to commission and collaborate with the talented artist
on the above image for our event, and to team up with the Southern California Naturist Association and SkinnyDipDay.org to raise money to help women whose lives have been upended by obstetric fistula.
I have to apologize in advance because I’m going to be saying this a lot over the next six weeks, but Fistula Foundation is a really wonderful charity working hard to help women who have been seriously affected by these horrible birth injuries. We’re trying to raise at least $2,000 to donate this year and make an impact on these women. That amount can directly change at least three women’s lives!
We can hit our goal today if just 100 people donate $20 right now. Can you help?
Anyway, I know I wasn’t the only one for whom things have been crazy lately. Things are popping off everywhere. Nudist season is in full swing, and this month’s edition of News of the Nude reflects that. We have all sorts of nude-related news to share, including but not limited to nude bike rides, nude walks, nude tours, nude cruises, nude events, nude airlines, nude fundraisers, even nude bookstores. Holy nude-a-moly. I’m almost ready to get dressed! But I’m not quite there yet.
Most notably, WNBR season has arrived! There are so many rides going on in the upcoming weeks I can’t even keep track. But I’m trying! Here’s a collection of posters!
This News of the Nude also sees stories of nude threats and nude censorship. By and large, these are relatively few compared to the positive stories this month, but they’re still worth noting and tracking. Sometimes small stories develop into big ones in time.
Let’s get into it. But first, as I like to do, I want to acknowledge some of our newest paid subscribers.
Thank you to our new subscribers and our existing subscribers, both paid and free. This would not be possible without you all. Again, thank you.
Okay, now let’s get to the news. 🚀
News of the Nude 🪐
Día Al Desnudo 2024 in CDMX and GDL: When It Happened and What Was Allowed
The third edition of Día Al Desnudo took place in Mexico City (CDMX) and Guadalajara (GDL) on May 18, 2024. This event, translated as “Naked Day,” aims to confront and discard societal prejudices and taboos surrounding nudity, sexuality, and body diversity. Organized by Héctor Martínez, whom I have previously interviewed on Planet Nude and the New Nudist Podcast, the event encourages participants to shed not only their clothing but also the social burdens associated with being naked.
Hundreds of men, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community gathered to participate in a range of activities, including yoga classes, body painting, soccer and volleyball games, conferences, artistic performances, and a picnic. The event was held in the Mexico-Azerbaijan Friendship Park in CDMX, promoting a safe and respectful environment, and concluded peacefully with the support of local authorities.
The energy in this grassroots nudism movement that is developing around this and other events in Mexico is truly inspiring to see. 🚀
Nudists take part in ‘Naked Day’ to promote body positivity in Mexico City | ABS-CBN News | YouTube
More on Dia Al Desnudo:
The World Naked Bike Ride is back in Milwaukee this summer. Here’s what you need to know
The 4th annual World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) returns to Milwaukee on June 22, 2024. This event advocates against oil dependency and promotes body positivity, encouraging participants to ride “as bare as you dare.” While full nudity is optional, many riders choose body paint or minimal clothing to highlight pedestrian visibility and biking safety.
The ride will begin at Fiesta Cafe in Milwaukee, 1407 S. 1st St. Participants can gather at noon, with the ride starting at 4 p.m. No registration is required, and the event is free, though donations are encouraged to support the organization’s outreach.
Organizers expect around 200 participants, reflecting past years, while some cities see up to 1,000 riders. The event is legally protected under the right to protest, provided participants avoid lewd or obscene behavior.
Focused on the celebratory aspects of the event, the above article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal does not mention the legislative threat that WNBRs in the state of Wisconsin narrowly overcame last winter when the state Assembly failed to take up a vote on it before the session ended in February. Therefore, the article fails to capture festival planners’ true relief and resolve.
The celebratory tone of the piece above starkly contrasts the framing of the article below from the Wisconsin State Journal, which seems to suggest a continued focus and scrutiny on the WNBR that takes place just 80 miles away in the state’s capitol, Madison.
No new age restrictions for World Naked Bike Ride after girl participated last year
As this article puts it, WNBR in Madison will proceed without new age restrictions despite controversy from last year’s event, where a young girl participated, sparking complaints from local politicians. Madison police investigated but found no legal violations. Legislative efforts to tighten restrictions did not advance.
This year’s ride, set for June 15, 2024, will start at 11 a.m. and cover a 10-12 mile route through downtown Madison. Organizer Peter Keating emphasized the ride’s focus on protesting petroleum dependency and promoting body positivity. Participants can join as “bare as they dare,” with children allowed if accompanied by a guardian. The event, not requiring street closures or permits, operates under legal protections for protest activities.
This reporting, with its focus on legal and political controversy, starkly contrasts with Milwaukee’s coverage of the WNBR. Milwaukee’s narrative celebrates body positivity and community involvement.
The Wisconsin State Journal article quotes Dane County Supervisor Jeff Weigand, the individual at the center of the initial controversy following last year’s ride in Madison, who emphasized his position that the ride should be strictly regulated. “Participants in this event have every right to protest, but they need to do it in a decent way that doesn’t violate other people’s freedoms,” he told WSJ.“Participants in this event have every right to protest, but they need to do it in a decent way that doesn’t violate other people’s freedoms,” he said in an email. “As a father of five and former Dane County foster parent, I can especially tell you that children should not be permitted to take part or witness this event.”
As John Jankowski, the Milwaukee ride organizer, noted, “Maybe that’s a conversation you should have with your children and explain to them what the body is and respect of their body.” He highlighted Milwaukee’s growing acceptance, where local support and official recognition, like the potential declaration of June 22nd as Body Acceptance Day, show a community embracing the event, and contrasted that with Madison’s shift away from inclusivity.
It’s remarkable how different cultural attitudes within the same state can shape public perception and media framing of the same event. 🚀
Read our coverage:
Nudist-run bookstore proposed for vacant San Francisco mall
A proposed nudist-run bookstore in San Francisco’s Union Square is gaining attention for its unique concept of selling banned books with unclothed staff. George Davis, a 78-year-old body freedom activist, posted a Craigslist ad seeking a female CEO to manage the store, which is planned to open from August to December 2024. The store aims to cater to subcultures such as Burning Man, Leather, BDSM, Fetish, and LGBT+.
Davis believes the bookstore would attract international tourists and strong proponents of nudist lifestyles, noting that nudity is not a crime in California unless one is lewd or threatening. The concept relies on the mall being private property, thus not breaking any laws as long as there are no food sales or unaccompanied minors.
Davis insists on a balanced gender ratio among booksellers to diminish any sexual connotations, explaining to the LA Times, “Booksellers will need to be sexually balanced out, one to one male to female, to take away the sexuality. All women booksellers would be Hooters with books.”
Despite initially securing a lease, Davis revealed to the LA Times on May 23rd that the deal fell through. He is now searching for another 20,000-square-foot space, confident that the concept will thrive given the robust markets in San Francisco’s diverse subcultures.
In an email exchange with Planet Nude, George Davis confirmed that the San Francisco Centre officially withdrew its offer. “We were free to walk away,” he explains. The proposal is for a pop-up retail store from August 1 until the end of the year. If economically successful, guess who would be looking for long-term leases?”
Davis is actively seeking support from the mayor’s office and exploring alternative locations, emphasizing the bookstore’s potential appeal to various subcultures. He noted, “Normalization of nudity in the larger world societies will have to come from the general public seeing/meeting nudists in real life and real-time.” 🚀
Community to discuss plan to separate nudists from neighbors at Denny Blaine Park
Seattle’s Denny Blaine Park, known for its unofficial nude beach, is facing a proposal to separate nudists from neighbors by zoning the park into two areas. The plan suggests allowing nudity by the waterfront (Zone A) while prohibiting it near the park’s entrance and parking lot (Zone B). This initiative follows a rejected 2023 effort to build a children’s play area to displace nudists. Colleen Kimsey Love, co-lead of Friends of Denny Blaine, emphasized the park’s historical significance for naturism and the legality of non-offensive nudity in Seattle. A public comment meeting is scheduled to discuss the proposal, followed by a hearing in front of the Board of Commissioners next Thursday. Planet Nude also reported on this developing story, highlighting the community’s diverse perspectives on public nudity.
Planet Nude also covered this story in more depth, speaking with organizers of the Friends of Denny Blaine. Our report highlights the community’s diverse perspectives on public nudity and the potential impact of the zoning proposal on the park’s naturist culture. 🚀
More reading:
Sponsor shout-out:
British Naturism leads the way
Okay, that headline is ours, not pulled from anywhere else… But British Naturism really is providing the model for organizations looking to build youthful energy and attract positive media attention, and based on how often they turn up in the media, they’re having remarkable success from a PR standpoint. Below is a flurry of stories that have been published about their activities this month.
Thousands of people to swim naked to raise money for charity
Thousands of people across the UK are preparing to swim naked to raise money for the British Heart Foundation through the Great British Skinny Dip. Now in its ninth year, this event encourages participants to enjoy the health benefits of swimming without a costume while supporting a worthy cause. Organized by British Naturism, over 500 skinny dips will occur throughout the year, culminating in a Great British Synchronised Skinny Dip on June 1, where multiple venues will simultaneously participate. The GBSD is now in its ninth year.
Andrew Welch, the national spokesman for British Naturism, highlighted the growing acceptance of nudity and its health benefits, encouraging everyone to participate and support the British Heart Foundation. Ben Bishop, the BHF Fundraising Manager, expressed hope that thousands would join the events, aiding in funding scientific research for new treatments and cures.
Media outlets across the UK have been promoting these skinny-dips, which are hosted in various counties, including Aberdeenshire, Bristol & Avon, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, and many more. The widespread media coverage aims to attract newcomers and demonstrate that skinny dipping can be a healthy and exhilarating activity for everyone, not just naturists.
Get naked in Newstead this summer for the Great British Skinny Dip
Great British Skinny Dip sessions to be held in Cumbria
Great British Skinny Dip comes to Southampton - here’s when
Naked swimmers coming to Plymouth pool for annual ‘Great British Skinny Dip’ celebration
The Nottinghamshire locations where you can take part in the Great British Skinny Dip
Get naked in Newstead this summer for the Great British Skinny Dip
The Great British Skinny Dip continues to grow in popularity, offering a unique way to support a charitable cause while promoting body positivity and health. British Naturism is not just busy with Skinny Dips; they are also planning multiple Heart Walks, which our next story will cover. 🚀
Walkers to strip naked for ramble in castle grounds
Hundreds more will also strip off to stroll around gardens, stately homes, and castles this summer to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in British Naturism’s Naked Heart Walks. These clothing-optional events aim to erode taboos around nudity and highlight its health benefits. Andrew Welch of British Naturism encourages everyone to participate, while BHF fundraising manager Ben Bishop hopes the walks will help fund life-saving research.
According to the article in the Bristol Post, there are currently six Naked Heart Walks scheduled:
Powderham Castle - Devon - Saturday 18 May
Leonardslee Gardens - W. Sussex - Saturday 15 June
Himalayan Gardens - Yorkshire - Saturday 29 June
Cwm Weeg Gardens - Powys - Saturday 6 July
Bishampton - Worcester - Sunday 21 July
Dorothy Clive Gardens - Wednesday 14 August
Tickets for these events are on sale here.
This is not the first time News of the Nude has covered British Naturism’s headline-grabbing naked heart walks or skinny-dips. BN made a splash with them last year, too. But, as you might guess, that’s not even everything BN made the news for in the last month! 🚀
Golfers to Get Their Kit Off as Nudists Host Naked Virtual Golf Tournament
British Naturism is also organizing its second annual “Naked Golf...virtually” event in October. Participants will enjoy a nine-hole virtual golf game at the Stacey Bushes indoor golf venue in Milton Keynes. The event, costing £38 for BN members and £45 for non-members, includes a cold sandwich buffet, finger bites, and a bar offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Organizers assure total privacy for attendees, having secured the entire building. Activities will include fun games like “nearest the flag.” The event is designed for both beginners and seasoned golfers, with courses adaptable to all skill levels. This four-hour social event promises a unique, weather-proof golfing experience with no clubs to carry or walking required. 🚀
Sunbathing naked in your own garden could break the law as police issue warning
British Naturism was also in the news this month for reasons not pertaining to their specific actions, but because they responded to another news story.
Police in England and Wales have warned that sunbathing naked in your private garden could break the law if it causes “distress or alarm” to others. While public nudity is not an offense unless it intends to cause such distress, per Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, there are certain caveats even in private spaces.
The Crown Prosecution Service emphasizes balancing naturists’ freedom of expression with the public’s right to protection from harassment. To avoid legal issues, police advise informing neighbors before sunbathing naked and ensuring the area is screened from view. Surrey Police highlighted this after a neighbor dispute in Reigate.
British Naturism supports sunbathing naked, asserting there is no legal obligation to notify neighbors, and encourages people to enjoy the sun, citing health benefits. 🚀
What are the takeaways for organizations wanting to replicate BN’s media success?
Nudists Hit Back at Plans for Luxury Housing Development Overlooking Their Beach
Planet Nude contributor defending the naturist use of the beach on television.
This story is not about British Naturism, but it is about naturism in Britain.
As we reported last month, nudists in Portsmouth are opposing plans for a luxury housing development overlooking Eastney Beach, a popular nudist spot for over 70 years. There are a few updates this month: the community remains divided, developers emphasize maintaining naturist use, and environmental issues are causing project delays.
The proposed project on the former Ministry of Defence site, Fraser Range, includes 134 homes, which nudists fear will lead to the loss of their beach. In the above article from The Mirror, Nudist David Stares expressed concerns about the impact on their community, stating they would have “nowhere to go.”
While some locals see the development as a solution to the housing crisis, others are divided. The article also hears from Katherine Campbell, a nearby pub manager who feels the nudists contribute little locally and can relocate. Orangestar Capital, the developers, confirmed that Eastney Beach is privately owned and emphasized plans to enhance public access while maintaining naturist use.
The proposal, initially submitted in 2018, faces delays due to environmental issues that need resolving before proceeding. 🚀
Progress in Pinellas for Nude Beach Campaign
Tampa Bay Free Beaches (TBFB) has made significant strides in its campaign to establish a designated nude beach in Pinellas County, Florida. The advocacy efforts have received positive feedback after a series of productive meetings with key county figures, including the County Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff, and several County Commissioners. Sheriff Gualtieri, in particular, showed support for the idea, suggesting East Beach at Fort DeSoto as an ideal location. If established, the beach would become Florida’s fifth naturist beach, the first on the peninsular state’s western coast.
This progress is driven by Ramon Maury, a Florida political lobbyist retained by the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) and South Florida Free Beaches. Maury has been instrumental in advocating for naturist-friendly policies and emphasizes the potential economic benefits of nude beaches, citing increased tourism and local business patronage. 🚀
Public feedback sought after Tasmania’s first nude beach approved
Work has begun on installing warning signage for Tasmania’s first official “clothing optional” beach at Pebble Beach, Boobyalla Bay, in Narawntapu National Park. Approved in December 2023 by the West Tamar Council following a request from a female naturist, the beach is now designated for nude recreation.
The Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) is seeking public feedback on the signage location and any additional actions needed. The consultation period ends on June 2, with signage installation expected shortly after. 🚀
Inside the Nude Cruise Due to Set Sail from Miami in 2025
Bare Necessities, a specialist nudist travel company that has been in the business since 1991, has announced its 2025 ride and picked up a few headlines in the process. For 2025, they’ve chartered a Norwegian Cruise Line to launch a new nudist cruise in the Caribbean. The 11-day trip, departing from Miami on February 3, 2025, aboard the 2,300-capacity Norwegian Pearl, will visit The Bahamas, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Puerto Rico. Prices range from $2,000 for a standard cabin to $33,155 for a luxury garden villa. 🚀
Italian beach town plans on introducing nude weddings
San Vero Milis, located on Sardinia’s west coast, plans to offer naturist weddings at its Is Benas beach, which has been a naturist destination for over two years. The idea originated from a German couple who inquired about holding a nude wedding. Mayor Luigi Tedeschi, an advocate for freedom and anti-fascist values, supports the initiative as a statement against nationalist movements in Europe, emphasizing that people desire freedom over restrictive regimes. He believes that naturism aligns well with eco-friendly and sustainable tourism, fostering cultural exchange and a deeper connection to nature.
Tedeschi highlights that Is Benas beach, hidden by dunes and a pine forest, ensures privacy, making it an ideal location for naturist activities without causing discomfort to others. The mayor, along with the Nudiverso association, aims to create a network of naturist beaches across Sardinia, promoting a respectful and inclusive approach to naturism. This initiative is seen as a way to develop unique tourism offerings that emphasize well-being, sustainability, and the enjoyment of nature.
Planet Nude also reported on this story earlier this month, going into more detail about Mayor Tadechi and his anti-fascist ethos. 🚀
Read out coverage:
Enjoying Planet Nude?
People can’t get over unique airline that offered a very unusual travel experience for passengers
Not sure why this whole thing has bubbled up on social media lately, but I blame it on the X algorithm rewarding engagement farming. In any event, it crossed my feed a couple times, so I might as well share it.
In May 2003, Castaways Travel launched a one-off nudist flight between Miami and Cancun, Mexico, offering a unique experience for 90 passengers who paid $499 each. Passengers were required to remain clothed during check-in and security but could disrobe once the plane reached cruising altitude. The Federal Aviation Administration noted that flying nude was not a safety issue. Although the flight garnered significant media attention, it remained a one-time event, with reactions ranging from curiosity to disbelief. 🚀
‘Feminist fanatics’ vandalize famous 19th-century nude paintings with ‘MeToo’ scrawling
Gustave Courbet’s 1866 painting, The Origin of the World, has long been controversial for its explicit depiction of a woman’s genitals. On May 7, 2024, performance artist Deborah de Robertis and an accomplice defaced this iconic work by scrawling “Me Too” in red paint during a protest at the Centre Pompidou-Metz. The act aimed to highlight the misogynistic divide in the art world.
De Robertis, known for her nude activism, has a history of provocative performances, including exposing herself in front of this very painting in 2014 and staging similar acts with Edouard Manet’s “Olympia” and at Lourdes. Her actions are intended to challenge societal norms and draw attention to feminist issues. However, her methods have drawn significant criticism for disrespecting and vandalizing art.
The incident elicited strong emotional responses, though the artworks were protected by glass and not permanently damaged. Criticism of her methods underscores the tension between activism and respect for cultural heritage. Media outlets like the New York Post have been quick to dismiss these stunts, often overshadowing the important messages behind them. Still, it’s worth at least acknowledging that De Robertis’ actions force a necessary conversation about sexism and the treatment of women in the art world, which shouldn’t be overlooked despite the controversial delivery. 🚀
Greensburg man admits to going on nude walks at Twin Lakes Park, police say
Daniel S. Horrell, 61, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, was charged with indecent exposure, open lewdness, and disorderly conduct after admitting to walking nude in Twin Lakes Park. Police had been searching for a man reported to be naked in the park multiple times last August. Horrell was found crouched in a stairwell at the Westmoreland County Park Police station on April 16, wearing only socks, sneakers, and a ball cap. He claimed to have disrobed at the Ann Rudd Saxman Nature Park but lost his belongings. Horrell confessed to previous nude walks in the park, corroborated by reports from a hunter, a mountain biker, and a horse trail user who had all spotted a nude man in August. The charges were issued by summons on Monday.
This arrest might be a cause of concern for naturists in the area. According to Pennsylvania law, charges of indecent exposure and open lewdness require either the intent to cause affront or alarm or behavior that is genuinely offensive. If Horrell was merely engaging in naturist hikes without any lewd actions or intent to disturb others, the charges should be defensible in court. However, media reports have been vague, making it unclear whether his actions were innocuous or genuinely inappropriate. This type of coverage perpetuates negative stereotypes about nudists by failing to distinguish between respectful naturist activities and genuinely offensive behavior. 🚀
The Viral Dublin-New York Portal Reopens After 6-Day Shutdown Over Flashing, Inappropriate Behavior
The viral video portal connecting Dublin and New York City reopened after a six-day shutdown caused by multiple incidents of public nudity and inappropriate behavior. The portal, a live video connection between the two cities, was temporarily closed by the Dublin City Council due to incidents such as flashing and provocative gestures. Notable disruptions included a man lowering his pants and an OnlyFans model lifting her shirt. These actions, along with displays of offensive images, led to the temporary closure.
To mitigate further issues, the portal now features a proximity-based solution, adding fencing and spacing decals that blur the livestream if crossed. Despite the negative incidents, the portal has facilitated positive interactions, such as heartwarming reunions and a marriage proposal.
Commentary on X reflected divided opinions. User @MummyMaster420 penned one of my personal favorite comments criticizing the extreme reactions:
In short, labeling such actions as a woman exposing her breasts as violent or criminal seriously distorts the reality of the particular situation that most seemed to object to online.
In a reply to the original tween, X user @CorgiSnoot noted:
“I’d say the person on the Dublin side holding up a phone with a porno playing on it to a crowd containing minors was far closer to being violent than this woman doing something legal-but-disapproved-of in NYC. But nobody’s talking abt that one now are they.” 🚀
‘Hair’ was famous for its nudity. How does the musical do it in 2024?
Signature Theatre’s revival of “Hair” in Arlington, Virginia, revisits the iconic nude scene, using smoke and shadows to create a powerful visual. This scene, symbolizing protest and societal rejection, is now managed with the expertise of theatrical intimacy director Chelsea Pace. Due to local decency laws, the 1968 original featured brief, dimly lit nudity. Today, the process emphasizes actor consent and comfort, with alternative options available for those uncomfortable with nudity. Director Matthew Gardiner notes that understanding the scene’s intent has led many actors to choose nudity voluntarily. This respectful process contrasts sharply with earlier productions that sometimes pressured actors into disrobing. The revival balances historical resonance with modern sensitivity, reflecting both continuity and change in how “Hair” is staged.
The play’s nudity, intended to challenge societal norms and promote body acceptance, is here framed within a supportive environment, and actors like have embraced the experience, finding it both empowering and integral to the story’s message. 🚀
A Nudist Camp in Our Midst Since the 1930s Was Visited by at Least 1 Delaware County Family
Sunshine Park, a notable nudist park that once lived on the Egg Harbor River in May’s Landing, New Jersey, was a central hub for America’s nudist movement in the 1930s. Founded by Baptist minister Rev. Ilsley Boone, the park operated until the 1980s and attracted various professionals, including ministers, bankers, doctors, and lawyers.
In the above article, a Delaware County family, the Secors, were among its frequent visitors to Sunshine Park in the 1950s and 60s. Linda Secor, who now lives in Alaska, reminisced about spending summer weekends at the park with her family as a child, staying in a converted Greyhound bus. Her mother, Marjorie, was featured in the October 1951 issue of Sunshine & Health magazine, and was crowned queen at a nudist convention. Despite facing hostility and bullying from their Prospect Park neighbors once their nudist lifestyle was revealed, Linda remains proud of her family’s connection to Sunshine Park. 🚀
Read more about Reverend Ilsley Boone and his impact on my own family’s history and nudist legacy, in the following piece I shared here last week:
That’s the extent of it this month. Onward to June, and the summer events will inevitably continue. We’ll check in in about a month to let you know what all went down. Hopefully some fun was had.
Before I let you go, I’d be remiss if I didn’t nudge you once more to donate to our Skinny Dip Day fundraiser.
Thanks all. Have a good month. 🪐
Please remove the Will Smith video. Abusive bullies have no place in this space. Thank you
Mostly positive developments, but "Hooters with books"? Really? <sigh>