Yes, you read that right. The first Saturday of May is the annual World Naked Gardening Day, when people are encouraged to, you know, tend their garden in the nude. Of all the bizarre and random holidays out there—Lost Sock Memorial Day, also celebrated in May, does in fact exist—is it really so crazy to dedicate one day of the year to getting back to our (naked) roots and being one with nature? …well, probably.
According to the
World Naked Gardening Day website, “People across the globe are encouraged, on the first Saturday of May, to tend their portion of the world’s garden unclothed as nature intended.” The holiday isn’t attached to any specific organization nor is it meant to make a political statement. Rather, the goal is to help our society move towards body acceptance and improve our relationship to the natural environment.
So if you support these ideals, and want to be reminded of our ties to the natural world, why not participate? People are encouraged to enjoy the simple pleasure of gardening while naked either by themselves, with family and friends, or with their gardening club—in a private or public setting. Although, fair warning: we’re not quite sure of the legality of showing up to a public garden in the buff—not to mention what the neighbors might think if you do it in your own backyard.
The World Naked Gardening Day website says participation in the holiday can also provide a sense of community. So remember, if you see any naked people this Saturday, resist your initial reactions of confusion, and maybe even worry or disgust, and try to appreciate the positive message of the holiday. Or perhaps participate and go au naturel yourself!
