Burners traverse through dust at the annual Burning Man event in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada. Black Rock City, the temporary city that hosts Burning Man, operates on a bartering and gifting economy without commercial activities. While most music and art festivals are associated with corporate sponsorships, Burning Man stands apart with only ice being available for sale. However, attending the event comes with costs and preparations aligning with the principle of “radical self-reliance”. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses associated with attending Burning Man according to experienced attendees.
Burning Man Tickets:
– Prices range from $575 to $2,750 depending on the sale window.
– Tickets cover the entire nine-day duration of the festival.
Parking:
– A vehicle pass costing $150 is required to enter Black Rock City.
– Motorcycles and towed vehicles do not require a pass.
Camp Fees:
– Camp fees can range from $0 to $5,000 and higher.
– Costs can vary based on factors such as volunteer work, amenities provided by the camp, and contributions to the camp’s art.
Supplies:
– Supply costs vary depending on personal possessions and what is available at the camp.
– Packing lists often include items such as hydration backpacks, lip balm with SPF, moist towelettes, goggles, and a backup set of keys.
– Other essentials include water, electrolytes, sun protection, a tent with fans, lights, and bike decorations.
Bike Rental:
– Rental bikes are available starting from $100.
– Donated rental bikes are refurbished for future festivals.
Transportation:
– Flights between San Francisco and Reno can cost between $490 to $710 depending on travel dates.
– Gas prices, depending on the vehicle’s efficiency, can range from $100 round trip between San Francisco and Reno.
Car Cleaning:
– A thorough car clean post-event is recommended due to the corrosive dust.
– DIY cleaning or professional car washes that use vinegar for alkaline dust removal are available.
Total Cost:
– The overall cost of attending Burning Man can range from around $1,000 to $10,000 depending on factors such as ticket price, transportation, accommodations, and personal preferences.