All are invited to participate in the 7th Annual No Pants! Subway Ride. The event will take place at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 12. Everything you need to know is in this email. Please read it carefully!
REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION
1) Willing to take pants off on subway
2) Able to keep a straight face about it
**THIS IS A PARTICIPATORY EVENT. DO NOT SHOW UP UNLESS YOU PLAN TO TAKE YOUR PANTS OFF. THIS INCLUDES NEWS MEDIA**
DETAILS
When: Saturday, January 12 at 3:00 PM, Sharp! (Over by around 5:30)
Where: Meet at Foley Square at the black sculpture/fountain. It’s near the Brooklyn Bridge 6 train stop, between Centre and Lafayette, just north of Duane. (Google Map)
Bring: A backpack and a metro card.
Do not bring: A camera (don’t worry we are taking pictures)
Wear: Normal winter clothes (hat, gloves, etc)
Complete logistics below:
HOW IT WORKS
We will assemble in Foley Square at 3 PM. Please be on time. Feel free to be early.
When we’re organized, we will all head down to the Brooklyn Bridge 6 Train stop together. Do not talk to others once you enter the subway system. No one knows each other. We will wait for a train to arrive on the uptown side of the tracks and all board our assigned cars (follow your team leader). A man with a megaphone will confirm that it is time to board the train. We may let one train go before entering to make sure everyone is ready.
Sit in the car as you normally would. Read a magazine or whatever you would normally do. Your team leader will have already divided you into smaller groups, assigning your group a specific stop where you will depants. Sit near your group.
As soon as the doors shut at the stop before yours, stand up and take your pants off and put them in your backpack. If you’d like to use a briefcase, purse, grocery bag, or whatever instead of a backpack that’s fine too. You are responsible for your own pants and they should be with you at all times. If anyone asks you why you’ve removed your pants, tell them that they were “getting uncomfortable” (or something along those lines.)
Exit the train at your assigned stop and stand on the platform, pantless. This is a new change for No Pants 2k7. You will wait on the platform for the next 6 train to arrive. Stay in the exact same place on the platform so you enter the next train in the same car as you exited the last train.
When you enter , act as you normally would. You do not know any of the other pantless riders. If questioned, tell folks that you “forgot to wear pants†and yes you are “a little coldâ€. Insist that it is a coincidence that others also forgot their pants. Be nice and friendly and normal.
We will exit the train at 125th street. Pay attention so you don’t miss this stop. We will then repeat the mission back down to Union Square.
You can wear fun underwear if you like, but nothing that screams out “I wore this because I’m doing a silly stunt.†Wear two pairs of underwear if it makes you feel more comfortable. Don’t wear a thong or anything else that might offend people. Our aim is to make people laugh, not piss them off.
If you haven’t already, please take a moment to read the previous mission reports for the last six No Pants rides.
This is always a blast, and I’m really happy that you are taking part in it. You may bring along friends if you like, but make sure they get a chance to read all of these instructions.
See you on the 12th!
You can RSVP for this on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=8363071462
Is it possible to request not to be videoed or photoed?
Ed,
It’s not really possible for our photographers and video people to single out individuals among a crowd of hundreds to not shoot… you can wear sunglasses or something if you don’t want your pantless image on the internet.
I assume this event is 18 and older. I can’t imagine that many children riding the subways pantsless alone, but IE has grown a lot. I’m over 18, but I’m just wondering if this assumption is true or not, wouldn’t want to see IE getting into any legal trouble.
Brian-
Its not illegal to wear underwear in public no matter what age, its still clothing. Look at the Naked Cowboy in times square, he doesn’t get in trouble for that, and everyone doing the no pants subway ride will have a lot more clothes than he does.
Sung Chiu-
I’m from Penn State too, I’ve organized a few Improv Everywhere type things on campus and we’ll be doing a few next semester. Look for us if you’re interested!
Yes, to be clear, it is not illegal to be in public in NYC in your underwear. In fact, it’s legal for both men and women to be topless. We did have a run-in with a cop two years ago, but last year we had cops who showed up to help us out and make sure everything went smoothly. It was nice of them.
Anyone under the age of 18 should have the consent of their parents before doing any Improv Everywhere event.
Is it possible to contact the Washington DC organizer without going through facebook? I am not subscribed and would rather not do so if possible. Thank you!
As of now, no one has stepped up to be an organizer in DC. The only city with a confirmed organizer is Boston.
Hey JoAnn,
I’ve just started a facebook group for Washington DC ( http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=6806011551 for anyone interested), but I’m definitely interested in recruiting people outside the facebook platform as well. Any ideas as to how to do this? Drop me a line at Elizabeth.Ody@gmail.com
Hey, I’ve got a question. The first post says that this thing’ll end around 5:30. But where will it be ending? Up in the Bronx, or closer to where we start?
“We will exit the train at 125th street. Pay attention so you don’t miss this stop. We will then repeat the mission back down to Union Square.”
Too bad I’m working on the 12th. Have fun everyone! :D
As a blogger would it be ok if I took pictures for my blog? I normally take pics on the train and platform anyways.
We have our own photographers taking care of the pictures. The event is for participants only. Otherwise it would end up being a bunch of people taking photos of each other, as pretty much everyone has a blog or facebook account they take pictures for.
Is it common to wear “tighty whitey” underwear at this event? I think they are funnier than boxers.
Thanks for clarification on children I will be with my 15 YRO son. After all the youth are the future of IE.
Just out of curiosity, how much harassment by the public can a women participating in this even expect? Would it be be easier for us if we wore boxers?
Wear whatever you are comfortable in. Some women wear boxers, so don’t. In terms of harassment, we have not had any problems in the past. Remember you are one of hundreds of people together.
My boyfriend and I will likely join this event, as there’s a lot to gain from being an exhibitionist. Unfortunately we need to attend a play at Lincoln Center that evening so we’ll embark to that area and not ride all the way to 125th.
You should definitely plan a party for all the pantless participants. Maybe even an event that would incorporate a little bar frolicking.
Can’t wait to see the faces in the crowd!
This is HILARIOUS!!! Wish I was able to make it.
Great idea! Were the friendly cops pantless as well…?
8-)
Jaclyn,
Great idea about the “bar frolicking” afterwards. A bunch of my friends and I participated in this event last year and marched down to McSorley’s, pantless, for a few apres-ride brews. Pantless good times were definitely had by all at the bar and I look forward to extending the pantless subway ride to McSorley’s again this year. All are invited!
Last year the cops were awesome. They were at the meeting point and were there to make sure everything ran smoothly, which was great.
There will be hundreds of people, so it’s tough to organize an after party without renting out some huge space (maybe next year), but folks usually break off in their own small groups and get a drink somewhere. Lots of folks come alone, so don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people and make new friends– that’s part of the fun!
You wouldn’t have to rent a space for an after party.. Just pick a spot the organizers like somewhere near the finish.. Call them ahead of time to see if you can arrange a “drink special”, and post that as the “official after party”.. Most bar type places would be pretty happy with a few hundred folks @ 6pm on a Saturday, given normal crowds don’t show up till 10+..
Preferably some place without a “no pants, no service” sign. :)
What would be the best way here from Newberg? Should I drive and try to park or take a train…? I just moved to NY from St. Louis, MO and haven’t been into NYC enough to know about commuting.
Tin Ngo-
To get there from Newberg without knowing the area: catch the train at Beacon down to Grand Central [Metro-North Railroad along the Hudson line http://www.mta.info] From GC you can get to Brooklyn Bridge stop/Foley Sq. via 4/5/6 (4 & 5 are express trains fyi).
Be forewarned: It’ll set you back about $25 R/T. plus subway fare. but a pant-less ride in nyc in january? priceless.
*Make sure to get your ticket online or at the station* otherwise they shaft you for another 5+ bucks per trip. The MTA doesn’t need your extra 10 bucks, imho.*
best part of that picture is that the guy is wearing a Penn State THON hoodie. let’s go PSU!
I don’t think I’ve been this excited for awhile…..
i’ll be so thrilled to take a part in it.
hi guys!
i WOULD LOVE TE BE PART OF THE GROUP but unfortunately i live in Italy and it will never happens things like this here!!!
F..ING Pope!!!!
HAVE FUN AND THINK I LL BE NEXT TO U WEARING MY “SUPERMAN LOGO” UNDERWEAR FROM H&M!!!
Have a laugh x me too!!!
Love
Lambertoxxx
Is there any middle-aged or elderly people participating
We welcome people of all ages. I expect we will have quite a few “middle-aged.”
Would it be cheaper to drive and park than catch a train?
I’m excited for this event as well. I’m coming in from New Haven so I’m up for a little post-fun barhopping if people are going.
Tin, I would personally advise that you catch the train. Parking in the city is hit/miss and besides you’ll have to pay for gas, pay for tolls (bridge/tunnel), and possibly have to wait due to traffic (which is always possible on a Saturday). If you must absolutely drive, there are various spots in the city you can try (and hopefully luck out on)…but as a whole it’s definitely better to train it in. Sundays are a different story (free parking in the city), but the event is on a Saturday so…
I’m 57 and new to The City — I’m laughing out loud and picking out my underwear; I can’t wait to be part of this!!!
Bill,
I’m 44, was figuring I might be 1 of the oldest. Am I middle aged? I guess in this crowd I am, but I’m doing it anyway!
After debarking at Union Square, if anyone is heading to the LES for drinks, I will give a free shot to anyone coming to Iggy’s without pants (21+ with ID only…)
Happy Hour runs till 9pm…offer good till then! Lots of cheap HH specials!
Iggy’s: 132 Ludlow St @ Rivington
F to Delancey St or 2nd Ave/V to 2nd Ave
212-529-2731
If I wasn’t working at the bar from noon I’d join you! If anyone comes to the bar pantsless I’ll drop trou too!
Yaarrgg!!
Pirate Mike
http://www.Myspace.com/PirateMike7
This is probably the dumbest idea have ever heard. You’re not raising money or doing anything worthwhile. You sound like a bunch of perverts.
Will there be a place to fill my super soaker water gun or should I do that before I leave the apartment? It’s heavy and leaks a bit so I would prefer to fill up closer to the event. Thanks
yes that is a good question. the polar bear water fight club is meeting the same day on the train… should be interesting.
I don’t understand the point of these things. Only in a society filled with such meaninglessness can such inanity take on cultural significance. Are we so starved for collective catharsis, for meaning, that we need to gather with our peers and take our pants off in public?
There will no doubt be a number of people whose lives will be disrupted by this foolishness: mothers and fathers with small children, police officers, MTA workers, etc. The burden for this event will fall to those with the least responsibility for it.
Sweet! No Pants Day is on my birthday!
This is pointless.
Hey, guess what… you’re not clever and trendy.
GET OVER YOURSELVES PEOPLE.
“Oh my God, look at us… we’re in our underwear!!! We’re soooo crazy!!!”
Matt & Paul – don’t cry, it’ll be okay!
Do you guys have any suggestions on how to keep yourself occupied? I know I’ll start cracking up if i make eye contact with anyone. I really want to do it though, would reading a book and listening to music work? Any other suggestions, it seems some of you are veterans.
hey i have a question, we can wear anything normal right. well is a shirt and tie okay? cuz i think thats pretty hilarious
I wish I could get in on this, alas I’m half way across the country and booked to close the store tomorrow night.
Break a leg agents, and keep warm (with lots of laughter l8r)
I think the dress code is pretty much open. Looking at last year’s agents, I think there was a businessman (full on suit), a priest, and various other notable characters. The idea is just to be as normal as possible, but you somehow forgot your pants.
I’m debating between suit/tie or gym attire. Not sure yet sadly.
I think the people who are complaining are just people who look terrible in their underwear. I mean, seriously. What’s wrong with a little random and yes, pointless fun? Does every moment in your life have to be taken as seriously as possible? Good god!
yea i’m going with the shirt n tie wit a v-neck sweater on top. either that or the construction man look
I just found out about this today. I am in ATL and wish the event grows to this city next year.
I would be there for sure.
Have fun, everyone!
This is really crap.
Do you people need to get laid, or what?
I applaud every single one of you who left a comment dissing this. The real people on the train are going to be disturbed by your antics…
which makes me wonder who f-ed you people more, your dad or your uncle.
Well I will be checking this out & photographing it. Sorry but you are in public & are fair game especially in the subway where photography is legal.
Saw you guys on the platform at the 59th St. station today! I had read about you a couple days ago after the article on Going.com. I wanted to do it, but had, well, a date, and showing up in my underwear at a restaurant might not have flown so well. :)
I did linger in the station for a few, acting as if I was amazed too, just to watch the “muggles” stare. Two guys near me were whispering back and forth about it, one of them said “But I just need someone to tell me what’s going on!!”
Perfect job guys. Everyone was doing their own thing, no interaction. I had my date walking along side me, so I explained what was going on, and she didn’t think it was such an awesome idea. Clearly, a bad date. =)
NYMike
Caught completely unaware on the 2 this afternoon, I’m one of those middle-aged “real-people” that Dresden above thought would get spooked by seeing men in underpants.
Disturbed? Oh yeah, I was really scared, cute twentysomething guys in polka dot boxers really frighten me.
And as the city slicker with the figure hugging black spandex specials? Congrats on your convincing stoicism.
One of the funniest thing I have ever done in my life.
This was truly so hilarious.
Congratulations for the idea!
good job to you all. sitting here watching the news on tv. agents, you are on the sunday morning news, woo woo.
You guys were hilarious! I happened to be on the 6 train when the first guy got on without pants. He caused a car-wide curiosity and laughter! The next three or four stops brought more pantless folks and it caused a complete uproar! Mission accomplished! I took a few pics with my phone and showed it to folks that didn’t believe my story.i’ll look out for u guys and upcoming organized laughter!
Ohh, I was wondering why this man took off his pants on the train!!
NEATO> I might do it next year!!
I partook in the pantsless fun yesterday. It was awesome!!! A few of us even went to Starbucks in Union Square for coffee after, they served us no problem (but the peeps in Starbucks were a bit confused). Hahaha! Can’t wait to see the pics. Where will they be posted by the way? Thanks Charlie, great idea!
Well, as a guy from the UK who’s over in NYC (for work rather than pleasure), seeing you guys (and gals) in Union Square was a nicely bemusing experience, especially as I had no idea what it was about, and I was just on my way to Barnes and Noble!
how are particapants not “real people”? or valid riders? they’ve paid for their ride, and they deserve to be comfortable. right?
This looks awesome! Wish I hadn’t missed it. I live in Shanghai, who do I talk to about organizing No pants 2K9 here?
s 2k8 Details for NYC at Improv Everywhere is a quite interesting post but quite difficult to understand for me –
Will you guys be organizing the same thing next year? If so, I will attend. However, what is the minimum age requirement? I am 16 (and will be 17 by next year), and will hopefully be able to get a couple of friends to drive up with me :)
Don’t know how many people will we have this year in NYC
Thanks you !! I just rode the Subway for the first time ever and I got to enjoy your 2009 pants off ride…. WOW Thanks for the giggle….