Friday October 30, 2015
By Graeme MacKay, Editorial Cartoonist, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday October 30, 2015
At least 10 full moons hoped for in Westdale Halloween run
There’ll be a different kind of full moon in Westdale this weekend, dozens of them, if a local nudist has his way.
Hamilton’s inaugural Naked Pumpkin Run is set to debut Friday night, a bizarre tradition that takes place annually in the United States in which runners wear nothing but carved-jack-o-lanterns on their heads — peduncles and all.
The Hamilton run is being organized by Adam, a 30-something-year-old Hamilton man who asked that his last name not be used because if his mom found out, he’d “never hear the end of it.”
After twice participating in the annual World Naked Bike Ride in Toronto, the pumpkin run was on his bucket list. There is something liberating about being comfortable in your own skin with like-minded people, he says.
He expects Friday’s event will likely draw more giggling Mac students than traditional naturists, but that’s fine.
“It’s the Halloween spirit … they might have a drink or two and say, ‘Let’s do it’ … not enough people put on fun, free events,” Adam said. “Some people maybe have an inner nudist they’ve never had an opportunity to get out. Or maybe they’re just excitable people who will try anything once.”
Adam said there have never been any issues with Toronto Police at the rude bike ride, but has not spoken with Hamilton police about the upcoming run.
Update, Photo by Barry Gray, Hamilton Spectator
The laws are fuzzy. In order for a public nudity charge to be laid in Ontario, police need the consent of the attorney general. Hamilton police are aware of the run, but did not provide an official response about what, if any, action would be taken against the streakers.
Adam stresses that there will be no tolerance for lewd or sexual behaviour, that participants will be fully clothed until the last minute, and that organizers chose the date and time to ensure trick-or-treaters are not shocked by the … er … display.
He’s hoping for a crowd of at least 10 — plus volunteers to watch their clothes — acknowledging that any fewer could be a little bare. If it’s a success, he hopes next year’s run could be a food drive or fundraiser.
The group will gather at 7 p.m. on Longwood Avenue South, between King and Main Streets. The 2.5 km route is undetermined. For more information or to sign up, visit the Hamilton Naked Pumpkin Run for Fun Facebook page. (Source: Hamilton Spectator)