Burning Man is an annual event held in the western United States that is focused on community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance. It is not a festival, but rather a community and global cultural movement guided by 10 practical principles. The event culminates in the symbolic burning of a large wooden effigy, referred to as the Man, that occurs on the penultimate night of Burning Man, which is the Saturday evening before Labor Day. Here are some key features of Burning Man:
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Community: Burning Man is a global ecosystem of artists, makers, and community organizers who co-create art, events, and local initiatives around the world.
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Art: Burning Man is known for its art installations, which are created by participants and often incorporate fire, light, and other interactive elements.
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Self-expression: Participants are encouraged to express themselves in any way they choose, whether through art, music, performance, or other means.
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Self-reliance: Participants are expected to be self-sufficient and bring everything they need to survive in the harsh desert environment, including food, water, shelter, and medical supplies.
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Participation: Burning Man is the sum total of the activities of its participants. There are no spectators, and everyone is expected to participate, collaborate, be inclusive, creative, connective, and clean up after themselves.
Burning Man is not a corporate-sponsored event, and there are no acts or entertainment provided. Instead, the event is created entirely by its citizens, who are active participants in the experience. The Burning Man event and its affiliated communities are guided by 10 principles that are meant to evoke the cultural ethos that has emerged from the event.
