The History Behind Burning Man

Mary Mason | October 26, 2022

Every year since 1986, Burning Man has facilitated a “community and global cultural movement” encouraging the ten principles to underline its mission and motto: We will always burn the Man. Receiving its name from two members of the San Francisco arts community, Larry Harvey and Jerry James united twenty people on San Francisco’s Baker Beach to celebrate the summer solstice by burning an eight feet tall human effigy. In 1990, the event evolved to celebrate Labor Day and relocated to Black Rock City, Nevada when police forbade the forty feet tall effigy from the annual burn. To no surprise, the effigy and Burners increase in size while a new theme excites first-time and returning Burners year after year. For a full timeline of Burning Man’s rich history and annual themes, read HERE.

At Burning Man, you are a “Burner”. You are a participant with the opportunity to create an art installation, organize a performance or theme camp in addition to the plethora of ways you can volunteer to give the event the warmth and impact of community that allows it to prosper every year. Because of this, this event doesn’t book acts and the lineup is never released. There are no vendors but trading is allowed. Seeking a more sustainable future, Burning Man and its organizers enforce a “leave no trace” policy of removing any remains to leave Black Rock City unaffected.

Burning Man is famous for welcoming volunteers and those who wish to become involved to breathe their imagination to life when participating, especially with one-of-a-kind activities and entertainment. Some memorable and radical activities that Burners can only find in the playa are Bill Murray Happy Hour, Tutu Making Workshop, Unicorn Cycling Workout, Slutty Mini golf, Spank Bank, and so much more. If you couldn’t make it to Burning Man 2022: Waking Dreams this year, the virtual burn is live now! Inspired to take action and participate next year, learn how you can get involved by checking out the First-Time Burner’s Guide.

Photos courtesy of Burning Man Project

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about the writer

Mary Mason

Read More...Mary is an artist based in Phoenix, AZ. Her favorite mediums to practice are confessional poetry and hula hooping.

When she’s not hula hooping at a local bass and riddim show, she’s at the beach or San Diego Art Museum. Mary’s adoration for EDM (culture & community) inspires her to perform. One of her many ways of celebrating art is attending festivals with her friends.