The Burning Man festival is a week-long gathering in the Black Rock Desert in Pershing County, Nevada. It is not considered a traditional festival but rather a city where almost everything that happens is created by its citizens, who are active participants in the experience. The 35th Burning Man event took place from August 27 to September 4, 2023, with an estimated 73,000 people in attendance. The theme for the 2023 event was "ANIMALIA".
Key features of the Burning Man festival include:
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Creative arts: The festival centers on the creative arts, inviting artists to rethink art as an interactive and shared experience rather than a commodified item.
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Burning structures: The culmination of the event is the burning of various structures that have been created during the week.
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Temple: Every year, a temple is built at Burning Man to honor the spirits of those who have passed away. The temple is often referred to as the "soul of Burning Man".
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Participants: Festival attendees are known as "burners". When encountering a burner, it is customary to greet them with a hug.
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No illegal drugs: Illegal drugs are prohibited at Burning Man.
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10 Principles: The event follows a set of 10 principles, which include radical inclusion, self-reliance, and leaving no trace.
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Unique location: The Black Rock Desert offers a remote and desolate setting, allowing participants to disconnect from modern life and fully engage with the people and art around them.