Burning Man Festival

Burning Man is not your typical summer festival.

It is a temporary Metropolis in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada where anything can happen. It is a place, where for a week each year, creative people and “misfits” can gather together to experience a place where they feel connected to a like-minded individuals. This year the Festival takes place August 28th-September 5th. Though the festival does not have any rules regarding your experience, there are a few principles to which the community adheres for this annual event. Keep these in mind if you chose to take part in this unique experience.

1. Radical Inclusion

At Burning Man, everyone is welcome.

2. Gifting

Burning Man is committed to the act of gift giving. The value of the gift does not dictate a return or exchange for something of equal value. It is an unconditional act on the part of each individual.

3. Decommodification

The community seeks to create social environments that are unmediated by commercial sponsorships, transactions, or advertising.

4. Radical Self-reliance

Individuals are encouraged to discover, exercise and rely on his or her inner resources.

5. Radical Self-expression

Radical self-expression comes directly from the unique gifts of the individual. It is offered as a gift to others. In this spirit, the giver should respect the rights and liberties of the recipient.

6. Communal Effort

The community values creative cooperation and collaboration. As such it strives to promote and protect social networks, public spaces, and works of art.

7. Civic Responsibility.

Community members who organize events should assume responsibility for public welfare and endeavor to communicate civic responsibilities to participants.

8. Leaving No Trace.

Respect the environment and take out what you brought it.

9. Participation

The community is committed to a participatory ethic. This means that there is an expectation that you will participate at all levels during the festival. The philosophy is that “We make the world real through actions that open the heart.”

10. Immediacy

Be in the experience. Break down barriers by recognizing that there are things that stand between our inner selves and the reality around us. Participate in what is going on around you and connect with the experience while it is happening.