PHILADELPHIA – Philadelphia’s streets turned into a vibrant canvas of skin and wheels as hundreds participated in the 15th annual Philly Naked Bike Ride on Saturday evening. Cheered on by enthusiastic onlookers, cyclists in varying degrees of undress pedaled through the city, marking another year of this unique and body-positive event.
Since its inception in 2009, the Philly Naked Bike Ride has grown into a significant event promoting cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport and advocating for fuel-conscious consumption. Beyond its environmental message, the ride champions body positivity, encouraging participants to embrace their bodies. While the name suggests nudity, organizers emphasize that riders should be “as bare as you dare,” ensuring comfort and inclusivity for everyone involved.
The event is not exclusive to bicycles; all forms of human-powered transportation, including rollerblades, skateboards, and scooters, are welcomed, fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. Organizers maintain a strict code of conduct to ensure a safe and respectful environment, explicitly prohibiting any form of harassment.
Each year, the Philly Naked Bike Ride charts a new course highlighting Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks. This year’s 12-mile route commenced in Fairmount Park, where many participants adorned themselves with body paint, before winding its way down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Cyclists passed by historic City Hall, through the upscale Rittenhouse Square, and into South Philadelphia, eventually looping back north around the U.S. Mint. The ride culminated in a west Philadelphia park near Drexel University, leaving participants invigorated and onlookers impressed.
Historically held in September, the ride was moved to August after participants noted feeling chilly in the typically 70-degree Fahrenheit September weather. The 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic, making the return and continued success of the Philly Naked Bike Ride even more celebratory. The annual event remains a highlight in Philadelphia, blending advocacy with an unforgettable spectacle.
