Category

Community

We Want You! To Write Long Form Content

By | Community, Education, Nest 2024, Volunteering | No Comments

Your experiences, opinions and values matter. Share your perspective with the wider Nest community, and help inspire them to participate at the Burn in ways you enjoy.

Have you had a great time doing volunteering shifts during the Burn?

Say why it’s so great to be a Ranger or Greeter or cook in the Volunteer Kitchen or do MOOP Sweeps!

Did you create some amazing art? Put on a fantastic event? Bring together a really cool theme camp?

How did you do it? Your words could help others do something similar, with their own flavour of course!

Do you have any special stories from Nest relating to Burner Principles or your own personal values?

Share them, and inspire other Nestlings to Burn like you.

How Does it Work?

So you want to write an article! Fantastic! We’re glad to have you on board.

  1. Choose a topic to write about
  2. Get in touch with us at comms@burningnest.co.uk. We’ll have a chat to see if it’s the right fit
  3. We agree on a timeline for writing and editing your piece. (You will be supported by the Comms team throughout!)
  4. Write your article according to the guidelines below. (Hint: the final product should look something like this piece!)
  5. We publish your piece here, in the News section of the website, and possibly post a blurb and link on social media and in the Carrier Pigeon Newsletter

General Guidance/Specification:

  • The article should be ~300 to ~800 words long
  • Break it up into sections with headers
  • Use 1 or more photos. Use your own, take from the community photo drive (no people without explicit consent), get something from the internet, generate with AI or make specific requests so someone else can find the right thing
  • You can choose to sign with your name and photo — or remain anonymous!
  • Be respectful, stay positive. Represent Burning Nest well
  • Be mindful that first time Burners and Nestlings are among the audience. Speak to them, and avoid too much jargon
  • All articles will be reviewed and edited before posting

Potential Article Topics

Here is a list of some potential topics we’d love to see articles about. If you see one you’d like to pick up, please send a message to comms@burningnest.co.uk to see if it’s the right fit.

  • Profile on kitchen
  • Profile on community team
  • Fluff the fluff out of build
  • Profile on Temple
  • Making an Art Piece
  • Applying for an Art Grant
  • Hosting a workshop
  • Starting a Theme Camp
  • Joining a Theme Camp
  • Hosting an event
  • DJing at a TC
  • Rangering
  • Doing Welfare shifts
  • Doing Gate shifts
  • Doing LBT shifts
  • Profile on Consent Team
  • What is Strike like?

Do you want to write about something else that isn’t on this list? Let’s hear about it! Send an email to comms@burningnest.co.uk.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Yours,

Treasure

Comms Link

Mobile Friendly WWW Guide

By | Community, Nest 2023 | No Comments

What are you up to next week?

Yeah, sure we’ll all be hanging out on the Glade… but what specifically will you be doing? Where and when?

The What Where When Guide dropped last week. Ticket-holders have received an email (subject: “Burning Nest 2023: Glitch in Reality”) with a whole bunch of info, including a link to a password-protected page where you can download a mobile-friendly version of the WWW Guide. (If you are a ticket holder and can’t find your info email, send a note to comms@burningnest.co.uk.)

There will be physical copies available on site for most participants, but not enough for everybody to have one. Anyway, in the meantime you can get ahead on your planning, and see what activities you’re into!

A look inside the mind of one over-eager Nestling

By no means do you need to copy down every single listing in the WWW Guide that looks remotely interesting (even the ones that coincide with workshops you yourself are running!) That would be a bit much. On the other hand, if you enjoy that because it gives you a chance to process all the amazing events on offer next week, then now is your chance to do that ahead of the Burn! And you’ll end up with a personalised WWW Guide tailored to your interests. Don’t judge me!

Also, you can just use the digital WWW Guide directly. Or you can scribble on a physical copy picked up at Gate when you arrive. You do you!

Limiting your phone use at a Burn

I acknowledge that promoting a mobile-friendly WWW guide is a little bit at odds with the most recent post advocating for no phone use at Burns. A beautiful contradiction! How wonderful! The Principles are meant to be interpreted.

I will say that if you are carrying your phone to view the WWW guide, I advise you keep it on Airplane mode and use it for functional purposes only. Don’t get pulled out into the default world, people who aren’t at the Burn or the faceless internet.

See you soon on the Glade!

I look forward to sharing my workshops with you (acro, partner dance and rope — see if you can spot some of them flagged in the above list!) and joining you at yours and other peoples’!

-Treasure

Incluedo

By | Community, Nest 2023 | No Comments

Hello!

Colonel Mustard here!

I’m coordinating a project called “InCluedo” to help groups of Nestlings make their needs known to a broad audience, to avoid having conversations often (or worse, not having needs met). Our priorities include people with access needs resulting from mobility issues, Neurodiversity and medical issues. We also want to feature other groups who could benefit from a platform (eg parents), as well as groups underrepresented at Nest (eg older Burners). Burning Nest is for everyone; help us make you feel welcome and inCluedo-ed!

 

Mobility

Colonel Mustard: Hi “Bob,” thanks for joining us. Could you tell us a bit about your access needs?
Bob: Thanks! I’m basically fine, but walking is difficult for me. After about 5 minutes, I want to be sitting down. I enjoy Nest a lot, though!
CM: Sorry to hear, but glad you’re making the most of it. Has Nest been generally accommodating?
Bob: Yes, for example they did a good job of providing transport to the Effigy and Temple Burn areas, since I couldn’t walk that far, and they had disabled toilets (I had a radar key and you could get one from Welfare).
CM: Are there any things Nest or camp leads can do differently?
Bob: One thing camp leads can do is consider having an inclusion lead, in the same way they have LNT leads, just so someone is thinking about how to make the space accessible for everyone. Another, and I know this is a big ask, is for more raised seating around camps. That would really make it easier for people like me.
CM: Cool! Thanks for your suggestions, really appreciate your time!
Bob: Cheers

Note:  Centrally located Accessible Camping is available to anybody who needs it! Ask where it is at Gate when you arrive.

 

Neurodiversity

Colonel Mustard: James, thanks for joining us. I’m keen to hear what would help neurodivergent people! Could you give us some of your needs?
James: Explaining things clearly is great! Say you run a breathwork session. I’d love to know before joining whether it’s beginner-friendly or targeted to experienced people.
CM: The What Where When Guide will say if there are any specific requirements for an event, or experience needed. If it doesn’t say, you can safely assume that in the spirit of Radical Inclusion, Immediacy and Participation that you can just turn up as you are! What else would help you?
James: At events, you often get people loitering and chatting. I have trouble focusing if there’s sound nearby from people chatting or from music at nearby camps. Would love it if event spaces are quiet.
CM: Got it. What else can people do?
James: I struggle to understand body language and social cues. Neurotypical people should know not everyone understands situations implicitly. If you clearly explain the rules, maybe by writing them down ahead of time, it will be much easier for me and other people to make sure everyone is comfortable.
Also, in my ideal world sessions would start on time.
CM: I hear you! I agree re: explaining rules clearly, I’ll try to do that in my events. Anything else?
James: I’m also sensory prone to the point where even strong cologne can cause me real discomfort. I know it’s hard, but if we could get quiet in the camping areas, I’d be much happier!
CM: thanks, James! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts.

Note: Although Freecamping a relatively quiet zone as it is predominantly a camping area, this year we have introduced a ‘Quieter Zone’ in Free Camping for those who want peace and quiet. Ask about it at Gate!

 

Families

Colonel Mustard: Sarah, thanks for joining us! You’ve taken children to Burns before?
Sarah: yes, we’ve done a lot of Burns, including four with our two year old!
Colonel Mustard: I’m impressed! Is Nest a good place for families?
Sarah: Definitely! Our 8 and 9 year old had a lot of fun. The Nest Olympics was a great family friendly event. So was the pub quiz. And we loved the circus crew.
Colonel Mustard: Any suggestions for Families coming to Nest?
Sarah: Let’s have an area in Free Camping designated family-friendly. It’ll be nice to be together.
Colonel Mustard: Any suggestions for theme camps?
Sarah: More soft drinks! People are doing a lovely thing if they set up a bar with alcohol. If it also has soft drinks or juice, it’s even nicer for us.
CM: Cool, thank you! Anything else?
Sarah: Yes, I’m the Family Lead in the Community circle this year. If you have questions about children at Nest, feel free to reach outsarah@thesparks.family

 

Thanks for reading! This post will grow and grow as more Burners share their stories with me. Please get in touch with me, Colonel Mustard, at BurningInclusion@proton.me to be featured (anonymously if you like) in this post!

Offer an Event

By | Community, Nest 2023 | No Comments

So you’ve clinched a precious Nest ticket for 2023, or you’re anticipating one of our delicious future ticket releases… and now you’re wondering how to get involved next!

Well, lucky for you, you’ve found our four part series on How To Maximise Your Burning Nest Experience (Or Any Burn, For That Matter!)

We’re firm believers that you get out what you put in. Here are four excellent ways that even first time burners can get involved:

  1. Bring a Theme Camp

  2. Make Art

  3. Offer An Event

  4. Volunteer

 

The icing on the cake of any burn experience is workshops, parties, and events! This is an amazing way to contribute any of your skills and talents, hidden or otherwise, that don’t necessarily fit into any of the other categories. Or maybe they do, and you’ve simply got more to give! Either way, we’re here for it.

 

WHAT KIND OF EVENTS CAN I OFFER?

Literally… anything. As long as it’s not going to endanger other Nestlings or infringe on their right to consent, you can pull forth any form of ridiculousness you like.

Here are some events we’ve loved from previous burns:

  1. Workshops to build your skills – leatherwork and poi spinning, for example

  2. Illegal Vibrator Racing (a Kiwiburn classic)

  3. Sounds baths (oosh, so delicious – you literally feel like your brain has been washed)

  4. Dance parties (high levels of bass encouraged)

  5. Sparkle Pony Shaming and Support

  6. Breathwork and guided meditation

  7. Kitty kat cafe (hint: no actual cats involved)

The list goes on – but meeting up with other Nestlings who are interested in the same events as you is epic. If it wasn’t enough that you both chose Nest, you also both chose *this* crazy thing! Sounds like you’ll be great friends.

 

WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED?

Another great question – look at you go!

 

HOW DO I SUBMIT AN EVENT?

We’re glad you asked! There are two routes: independently or with (some) Theme Camps.

Anybody can host an event anytime at Nest. In that case, use the general submission form:  https://forms.gle/8px7g176q7MdkCkt5. Note: The Point is a public space available for different kinds of events! Timings will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so get your events in soon!

If you want to run your event at a particular Theme Camp, you have to communicate with them first! Many camps have their own events sign-up process. Some camps have more formal applications: 

Other camps may be open to hosting events as well. Learn more about them and contact them directly from the Theme Camps page.

Depending on the camp, either they will upload your event for you, or you will still have to use the general submission form. 

WHY SHOULD I OFFER AN EVENT?

Firstly, did you read the inspirational list of shenanigans above?! Nest is a place in which “if you can dream it, you can do it” applies… but it’s also a do-ocracy. Which means if you want to see it happening in the world, congratulations – it’s up to you to make it work! Even if you’ve got an idea, and no idea how to execute it – never fear. Our Facebook group is a wonderful place to drop a shout-out and see who else might want to join you in bringing your vision to life. Don’t be shy!

 

SO WHERE DO I SUBMIT MY EVENT?

Once more for those in the back 😉 We’d love to see your events and be able to share your plans in our What Where When guide! The submission deadline is April 20th 2023. Press the “Submit” Button below for the application form.

 

Note: If you’re offering some sort of amazing immersive experience, sometimes you could even apply for an Art Grant to help bring your dream to life! Art grants are technically closed for 2023 but there may still be funding available. And definitely bear this in mind for your 2024 shenanigans!

Bring a Theme Camp

By | Community, Nest 2023, Theme Camps | No Comments

So you’ve clinched a precious Nest ticket for 2023, or you’re anticipating one of our delicious future ticket releases… and now you’re wondering how to get involved next!

Well, consider this the first in our four part series on How To Maximise Your Burning Nest Experience (Or Any Burn, For That Matter!)

We’re firm believers that you get out what you put in. Here are four excellent ways that even first time burners can get involved:

  1. Bring a Theme Camp

  2. Make Art

  3. Offer An Event
  4. Volunteer

Applications for theme camps are closing on the 15th. There is still time to start your application! Just fill in what you can so far, plant your flag and open up a conversation. 

WHAT IS A THEME CAMP

A Theme Camp appears when a collection of humans get together to co-create their vision of a communal space that’s on offer for all Nestlings to enjoy. Amplify your wildest ideas with like-minded humans, and make an epic space in the process!

 

WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?

Theme camps are, among other things, mini venues that facilitate a lot of the goings-on at Nest. Want to host a workshop, throw a party, or play some music? You probably want a space to do that in. It’d be a pretty empty glade without Theme Camps!

 

WHAT OTHER CAMPS EXIST?

Take inspiration from our existing camps: https://www.burningnest.co.uk/participation/theme-camps/

Or check out offerings from other burns! Jump over to the websites for Burning Man, Afrikaburn, Nowhere or Borderlands to check out some of their previous camps. Kiwiburn alone had some 80+ camps this year, so there’s plenty of ideas to get your brain ticking.

 

WHY DO PEOPLE CREATE THEME CAMPS?

Be the change you want to see in the world

Ever wished there was more dancing/snug space/food offerings/gremlin cave vibes that you could experience at a burn? Lucky for you, this is a do-ocracy – which means you’re responsible for making it happen! You can have exactly the experience you want to have. Just grab some likeminded humans and get creating!

Find a friend… and another, and another, and another…

Bring together Nestlings like you with similar passions and interests. We’ve got this “missed connections” spreadsheet, Facebook, WhatsApp and Signal groups where you can recruit fellow participants – even if you’re brand new. Put the call out and see what happens. 

Food, glorious food

Sharing a camp kitchen and/or meal plan is a great motivator for joining a group who plan to eat together. Plenty of people don’t like carting the kitchen sink to the burn; if you can delegate that job to only one person in your camp instead of everyone having to do it, it’s a win for Communal Effort and Leave a Better Trace.

Play that funky music

Maybe you’re a DJ, maybe you just really love a particular type of music and want to enjoy it in the Glade. This is a great way to make sure your tastes are represented, and facilitate that same option for other Nestlings.

You better WORK(shop)

Same goes here as for the music. If you think it would be amazing to have a zen garden space to host your breathwork, or a hookah lounge for your intro to shisha class, or a floor area suitable for your dance class/jiu jitsu bout/model train workshop, then you can explore what it would be like to have a purpose-built space.

Put your money where your mouth is

If you resonate with any of the above, banding together as a theme camp is a great way to split costs and spread the load on bringing your dream to life!

WHAT ARE THE PERKS OF BEING AN OFFICIAL THEME CAMP?

Placement A great placement spot according to your requirements. This may also include camping near your camp for your crew

Power Link in to the Nest grid. We can work on better, eco-friendlier power solutions together. Generators are not permitted. 

Sound A direct line to our sound lead who works collaboratively with you to ensure your parties don’t get shut down or cause our event licence to be revoked (this is very important! We have very specific sound requirements on our licence and the council does visit site to check!)

Advertisement and promotion of your theme camp to participants in newsletters and on our website for recruitment of camp members, as well as your events in the What Where When guide.

Support A direct line into other event leads such as LNT, Community, and Consent who can help you with making sure your camp plays a part in protecting and safeguarding our culture and principles, and how best to fulfill any other community agreements which are important to enable us to keep putting on the event and for your theme camp to be able to come back year after year.

 

I’M CONVINCED. WHAT DO I DO NEXT?

Get your applications started before March 15th 2023.  It’s okay if not everything is finalised or you haven’t recruited all your members just yet – just get as much down as you can to let us know you’re keen, and reserve your spot on the Glade. Make sure to hit submit on the form! You can come back and edit later. 

      

Water, water everywhere…

By | Community, Nest 2022 | No Comments

… please make sure you bring enough!

There has been some confusion around the drinking water supply this year, and to clear it all up we’re happy to provide some clarity. We have one water tap on-site, providing drinking water. It is located at the bottom of the hill, a way away from free-camping. You are welcome and encouraged to use it, but you must bring your own containers and transport them to your camps/tents/secret lairs yourselves.

In previous years we have had community-organised water deliveries, via a local company that delivers large (think water cooler size) re-usable bottles, straight to site. They then collect the empties at the end of the event. This has historically proved popular, especially with free-camping, theme camps and people not able or inclined to transport their own water to site.

This year, some members of the community are also looking into building a system that will transport drinking water from one end of the site to the other. While this is a fantastic project and has amazing potential as a long term solution for future events, this is still very much an experiment at the moment and should not be relied upon in lieu of any other water supply this year.If you’d like to get involved with either the bottled water delivery to site, or the new project to pump water around the site, please get in touch with us at community@burningnest.co.uk.

Hope this clears things up!

Be part of the What? Where? When? guide!

By | Community, Nest 2022 | No Comments

What? Where? When?

Are you being called to organise a creative expression of your own? Maybe it’s a morning rave, comedy workshop or open deck hour – we have seen it all.

The What? Where? When? is our guide that will help Nestlings to navigate activities occurring throughout the event. We would like to invite submissions for community led events of any and every nature. You can do this with a group of fellow festival heads or if you have something special to bring as an individual, please feel free to tell us about it.

Please note – Submitting your events early guarantees their inclusion in the official program. 

The nature of our community is such that much much more will be happening than we could ever document, so if you miss the cut off date feel free to spontaneously create wherever calls to you on our beautiful site. You will then be able to communicate it on the day by visiting The Point (formerly Centre Camp) for the latest announcements.