Streaking

Streaking, or running naked through a public place, is a phenomenon that has been around for centuries. Streaking naked is technically not a naturist activity it is more an act of public social nudity.  The action of running or walking naked in public spaces for protest or fun is not a new phenomenon. Religious groups like the Adamites, Ranters (Naked Quakers) and Doukhobors did streaking as a protest act, and spiritual practice of ascetic nudism. ¹ The Surprising History of Streaking (Yes, the Naked Kind) Similar to world naked bike ride protests today.

There are many different theories about the origins of modern day streaking, but it is generally believed to have started in the United States in the early 1970s. One of the earliest recorded incidents of streaking in the United States occurred in 1973, when a man ran naked through the University of Georgia campus. This incident sparked a nationwide craze, and streaking quickly became a popular form of entertainment and protest.

Streaking reached its peak in popularity in 1974, when it was estimated that over 20,000 people had streaked in public. Streakers appeared at sporting events, concerts, and even political rallies. The craze eventually died down in the late 1970s, but it has never completely disappeared. Here are some recorded instances  of streaking:

• In 1974, a man streaked across the stage during the (Oscars) Academy Awards. ² The Surprising History of Streaking (Yes, the Naked Kind)
• In 1974, a man streaked across field at Twickenham in the UK, during a charity rugby match. ³ Exposed: A brief history of streaking 
• In 1975, Michael Angelow streaked across the cricket pitch on the fourth day of a test match between England and Australia. ⁴Exposed: A brief history of streaking 
• In 2010 a streaker invaded the White House. ⁵ White House Streaker Not A Security Threat
• In 2013, a woman streaked across the course at the President Cup. ⁶ Female Streaker Runs onto Course at Presidents Cup
• In 2018, a famous streaker Mark Roberts invaded the Winter Olympics.⁷ World famous streaker crashes Winter Olympics

People seem to engage in streaking for many different reasons. Some people do it for fun, while others do it as a form of protest or to challenge social norms. Streaking may also be a way to gain attention or to express oneself.

No matter the reason, streaking is a unique and often humorous phenomenon that has been around for centuries. Streaking at sporting events was popular in the 70s and 80s.

Streaking is still a relatively rare occurrence, but it does happen from time to time. In recent years, there have been several high-profile streaking incidents, including a man who streaked across the field during a college football game and a woman who streaked across the stage during a concert. It is typically done a by a lone individual or a two unlike the more organized collective naked runs. Some celebrities express an enjoyment of the fun of streaking. ⁸Alison Brie on Why She Loves Streaking: ‘It’s So Fun and It Really Makes Me Laugh’

While streaking can be seen as a harmless prank, it can also be disruptive and even dangerous. In some cases, streakers have been arrested or charged with indecent exposure. Despite the risks, streaking continues to be a popular form of entertainment and protest. It is a unique and often humorous way to express oneself and to challenge social norms.