The annual Burning Man event that’s held in the Black Rock Desert in the American state of Nevada is one of the most unique festivals in the world.
The desert gathering, which will be held from August 30th to September 6th 2010, attracts about 25,000 people every year and is generally seen as a once-in-a-lifetime happening for the avant-garde, brave, crazy and curious.
The event is held on an arid, stark prehistoric lake-bed and the organizers basically build a temporary city on the land.
Once participants arrive in the location, almost anything goes, as people will do anything they see as creative, such as building themed camps, wearing wacky outfits and driving around in crazy vehicles. It’s often been compared to Mad Max characters visiting a carnival.
You’re basically free to take along anything you like and mingle with fellow carnival goers in the beautiful setting of the desert. Most people spend their days wandering the streets, stopping at a free bar, show, or cinema, and watching the bizarre vehicles as they pass by.
Some past cars have featured a Viking boat on wheels, floats with jazz bands on them and flying carpets. There’s plenty of music and artwork all over the place and the last night of the festival features the Burning Man, which is an effigy that’s then burned.
Be aware that the site is commerce free and there’s nothing bought and sold, so make sure you take all of the necessary camping and food supplies. However, washrooms are provided. Also know the temperature can soar in the daytime and plummet at night, so come well prepared.
For more information on the Burning Man festival, visit www.burningman.com/
