On Saturday, the renowned World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) will be making its annual return to Chicago and across the United States. The event, which celebrates bicycle power and body positivity, will take place from 8 p.m. to midnight and cover a distance of about 14 miles.
WNBR describes itself as a “clothing-optional” people-powered event that highlights the vulnerability of cyclists and promotes body positivity. Cyclists and skaters are encouraged to wear body paint, underwear, or costumes while participating in the “bare-as-you-dare” event. However, full-frontal nudity is illegal in the city of Chicago, so participants are advised to proceed at their own risk.
The official route for this year’s ride is yet to be posted on the Chicago World Naked Bike Ride Facebook page but it is expected to be similar to that of 2023. Participants should check in between 6 p.m. and 7:45 p.m., bring a helmet light, water, snacks, shoes and clothes as a precautionary measure against any unforeseen weather conditions or emergencies that may arise during the ride. WNBR officials also urge riders to stay together as a mass and work with bike marshals for safety purposes or in case of emergency situations.
The event typically concludes with an afterparty where more information can be found on their website or social media pages about future rides or events related to cycling culture and community building.
