There’s a festival that is held deep into the desert of Nevada every year. At the end of this festival, there’s a ritualistic burning of an effigy of a man. Many celebrities and very wealthy people attend, as well as many artists showcasing their work. This festival is called Burning Man. It’s kind of strange, in 2019 more than 70,000 people attended Burning Man. Yet, most of the public still has no idea of it’s existence. What’s the big secret?
Burning Man started in 1986 as a form of radical self-expression. On June 21st, 1986 the first man effigy (8ft. tall) was burnt at a San Fransisco beach. It became a yearly ritual to burn the man effigy, and it grew in height every year. The cops shut the party down eventually because they wouldn’t allow the effigy to be burnt at the beach anymore. So, they moved their party to Black Rock City, Nevada.
In 1991, Burning Man got the correct permits for their party, which now turned it into a festival in the middle of the desert. It was one like no other, a cult-like society governed by the people. There are 10 principles which serve as the law of the land. One of the more interesting principles being: Gifting. Apparently, gift giving at burning man is a big deal. Only coffee and ice are sold at Burning Man, everything else must be given and received.
Burning Man as a whole is an Art Festival. There are many teams and companies that go out to Burning Man to showcase their unique art, then burn it at the end of the festival. Every corner of Burning Man is consumed with art. You can ride around a bike to easily coast around what seems like an outdoor museum. Some of this art people can even interact with (without permission). The trust of the community with one another must be what brings them together annually. It really does seem like a secret society get-together with high profile people, but anyone is able to attend.
Burning Man is currently happening right now! If you want to go to Burning Man this year, you’re out of luck. Unfortunately Burning Man is sold out this year. The festival started on August 28th and will end on September 3rd. No need to worry though, it happens every year! You haven’t missed your chance to miss out on this unique experience. 
