In about one week, thousands of people will drive across I-80 through Utah and Nevada to reach the Black Rock Desert in Washoe and Pershing Counties .
You know it’s almost time for Burning Man when you see campy looking, overstuffed RVs struggling down long roadways. Don’t lie – you’ve followed behind them dodging dirt clumps and flying dust!
This will be my third year attending the week long art festival. I won’t lie: it’s brutally hot. Occasional dust storms rip through campsites up to 75 mph. Our tent poles literally bent in half the wind was so strong.
So why go you may ask. It’s pure eye candy. Where else are you going to see a giant powered Chinese take-out box car, or massive rolling pirate ships? Yes, it really does look like that scene from the last Pirates of the Caribbean movie. But in real life.
This year’s theme is Metropolis. The most visible sign of that extends to roadway names; campsites are categorized by clock times and street letter like C (for Cairo ) and 6:00.
First timers should be warned to bring lots of water. A gallon per day per person in fact. Whatever else you bring in you must be able to take out. Think self-sufficiency. There are no garbage collectors on site – so you may want to rethink that smelly fish dinner your first night. Add in 100+ degree heat and you got a nose curling creation on your hands.
So, plan all meals ahead of time. Make grocery lists by expiration date. Fresh produce and meat doesn’t last long, but dried cereal and chips can last for days. You will also have to replenish your ice supply often. Lucky for you truck shipments happen daily. You just need to stand in line for two hours in the blazing sun to buy blocks for about $2 each.
But don’t worry you’ll have lots of killing time. Like a full week’s worth. Round-the-clock activities will keep you occupied. They’re all mentioned in the guide handed out by the naked middle-aged greeter at the front gate. ‘Newspapers’ are also printed and BMIR 94.5 FM gives the latest up to date information on weather conditions. Did I mention nasty looking rain storms also tease Burners from nearby mountains?
Basic survival skills are a must. If a storm dumps rain or dust you need to seek shelter. Many head to Center Camp and drink coffee and lemonade. Others take part in games or watch art performances inside the circle. The giant tent won’t be completely dust free, but at least you can bond with other participants or fill out the annual optional census form.
Most action picks up after burners applaud the daily sunset. Within hours portable nightclubs light up, homemade bars stock up and oversized stereos decibel up.
Darkness brings its own issues, mainly low temperatures so be prepared to bundle up when (and if) you decide to sleep. Might want to also pack some ear plugs too because that pumping techno music you hear – it doesn’t stop for anyone. Not even you.
For the most part, everyone is friendly and easy going. But, as in life, there are some bad apples. I have yet to meet them, however, beware they exist. If something unfortunate does happen, know there are rangers everywhere to help you.
An open mind and appreciation for art must be held in high esteem. It’s the main reason why we’re all there. Some people spend years on their projects, so be respectful. Ask the artists about their work; they’re thankful to share details. I learned about this three story house car that underwent two separate renovations and last minute detailing for its big desert debut. Most of the major overhaul took place just weeks before in Berkeley .
Others gut out school or city buses for rolling parties. Roofs are usually converted into second story dance floors. All have to be registered with the DMV beforehand as mutant vehicles. Still have questions about your art car? Ask the onsite DMV office.
And what about those hipsters with their own planes? Black Rock City has its own airport. 88NV even has its own terminal building complete with Customs Inspections area and bar! It is not open to commercial jets, so your best bet for a city flyover may be to befriend a pilot.
Most world travelers will fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport , rent a car and drive up through Gerlach. Surrounding businesses profit greatly off those needing last minute supplies. Christmas comes early for Whole Foods, Twin City Surplus, Target, Home Depot, Lowes, Costco, Crystal Ice & Oil Company among others so strategize – shop in late July or head to lesser known stores for deals.
Some car agencies forbid rental transactions. Playa dust cleaning can be back breaking hard work. Who knew fine dust could be so cruel? I’ve also heard reservations for Cruise America RV Rentals & Sales fill up fast, like months beforehand.
Also, don’t bother bringing your cell phone or laptop. There’s no service up there. Public computers are located near Center Camp if you have the need to Twitter your mind blowing vacation to the world.
Now that I have given you several tips and lots more to think about, I need to go back to my shopping. I only have a few days left to get everything in order!
More more, visit www.burningman.com