Bodyfest 2024
Bare Oaks and Naked Club present
a naturist/nudist weekend of
fun body/mind/spirit activities and workshops
near Toronto, Canada - July 26-28, 2024
a naturist/nudist weekend of
fun body/mind/spirit activities and workshops
near Toronto, Canada - July 26-28, 2024
Bodyfest Attendance Guide
How? Where? What? When? PLEASE READ ALL DETAILS!
Even if you are fully familiar with visiting Bare Oaks you should carefully read about the added steps involved with arriving and checking in for both Bodyfest and the Bare Oaks office. There are some details around the Bare Oaks discount you need to know.
Bodyfest 2024 officially runs from 5 pm on Friday July 26 through until about 5 pm on Sunday July 28. We expect a portion of attendees to arrive Saturday morning and leave the same evening. So, you can do that, or have the full experience and camp overnight Friday and/or Saturday. If you are already at Bare Oaks for a long stay, please buy your ticket Friday afternoon or early evening to avoid the Saturday morning rush.
How? Where? What? When? PLEASE READ ALL DETAILS!
Even if you are fully familiar with visiting Bare Oaks you should carefully read about the added steps involved with arriving and checking in for both Bodyfest and the Bare Oaks office. There are some details around the Bare Oaks discount you need to know.
Bodyfest 2024 officially runs from 5 pm on Friday July 26 through until about 5 pm on Sunday July 28. We expect a portion of attendees to arrive Saturday morning and leave the same evening. So, you can do that, or have the full experience and camp overnight Friday and/or Saturday. If you are already at Bare Oaks for a long stay, please buy your ticket Friday afternoon or early evening to avoid the Saturday morning rush.
Quick Links to Topics on this page
How do I Register?
Do I have to be fully nude?
When should I arrive?
What if there is a rain forecast?
How do I get to Bare Oaks?
What happens when I first arrive?
Checking in at the Bodyfest kiosk
What should I bring with me?
What are the camping details?
What about food?
Photography Information
How do I Register?
Do I have to be fully nude?
When should I arrive?
What if there is a rain forecast?
How do I get to Bare Oaks?
What happens when I first arrive?
Checking in at the Bodyfest kiosk
What should I bring with me?
What are the camping details?
What about food?
Photography Information
How do I Register when I arrive?
To participate in Bodyfest activities you just pay the Bodyfest fee and wear the Bodyfest wristband. You can purchase this digital ticket in advance here on the website, or buy it upon arrival. You ALSO have to pay to visit Bare Oaks but that cost is 50% of the usual price if you have a Bodyfest ticket.
This is important to know: The way the 50% discount is applied depends on the sequence of events in your case. (A) if you have already paid Bare Oaks your visitor fee, or if you pay for that BEFORE you check in at the Bodyfest kiosk, then you will have to go back to the office and get your 50% back in the form of a CREDIT on your account. You can use this credit to purchase food in the restaurant or anything else in the future. (B) If you have not yet paid Bare Oaks we recommend the following: Make sure you come to the Bodyfest kiosk FIRST when you arrive, get your wristband, and then go to the Bare Oaks office to pay your day-fee. In this case they will only charge you 50%. FYI there is no discount on camping/accommodation fees.
For more infomation about arriving at Bare Oaks, see the section below: "What happens when I first arrive at Bare Oaks?"
To participate in Bodyfest activities you just pay the Bodyfest fee and wear the Bodyfest wristband. You can purchase this digital ticket in advance here on the website, or buy it upon arrival. You ALSO have to pay to visit Bare Oaks but that cost is 50% of the usual price if you have a Bodyfest ticket.
This is important to know: The way the 50% discount is applied depends on the sequence of events in your case. (A) if you have already paid Bare Oaks your visitor fee, or if you pay for that BEFORE you check in at the Bodyfest kiosk, then you will have to go back to the office and get your 50% back in the form of a CREDIT on your account. You can use this credit to purchase food in the restaurant or anything else in the future. (B) If you have not yet paid Bare Oaks we recommend the following: Make sure you come to the Bodyfest kiosk FIRST when you arrive, get your wristband, and then go to the Bare Oaks office to pay your day-fee. In this case they will only charge you 50%. FYI there is no discount on camping/accommodation fees.
For more infomation about arriving at Bare Oaks, see the section below: "What happens when I first arrive at Bare Oaks?"
Do I have to be fully nude to be part of this?
Yes you do have to be completely nude. This is a naturist/nudist event and place about non-judgemental body-freedom. That’s the whole point. However... if you are cold, or if you need to drape something loosely as sun protection, that is OK - follow by example. If you are new to social nudity please be aware that there are absolutely no sexual connotations to anything in a naturist context and everyone is expected to behave and interact normally. There are no clothed people in the mix - everyone is equal. Every kind of body type, age, and gender share in the experience. Here is a link to an excellent page that addresses all related questions and concerns if you are a newbie. bareoaks.ca/first-visit
Yes you do have to be completely nude. This is a naturist/nudist event and place about non-judgemental body-freedom. That’s the whole point. However... if you are cold, or if you need to drape something loosely as sun protection, that is OK - follow by example. If you are new to social nudity please be aware that there are absolutely no sexual connotations to anything in a naturist context and everyone is expected to behave and interact normally. There are no clothed people in the mix - everyone is equal. Every kind of body type, age, and gender share in the experience. Here is a link to an excellent page that addresses all related questions and concerns if you are a newbie. bareoaks.ca/first-visit
When should I arrive at Bare Oaks?
Consider arriving on Friday afternoon and getting a camping spot. Consider camping a second night as well so that you can enjoy evening activities without having to drive home at night. If you are arriving Saturday, the gate will open at 8:30 AM sharp. If you arrive at this time you might make it to the 9 AM meditation event after checking in.
Consider arriving on Friday afternoon and getting a camping spot. Consider camping a second night as well so that you can enjoy evening activities without having to drive home at night. If you are arriving Saturday, the gate will open at 8:30 AM sharp. If you arrive at this time you might make it to the 9 AM meditation event after checking in.
What if there is a rain forecast?
No matter what the weather forecast indicates, you should plan to come to the event. We have the option to do many of the activities indoors, or simply delay them. Normally when there is rain it does not last long. If you live even just an hour away and it is raining, chances are it is not raining at Bare Oaks. Do not let yourself be discouraged when you are about to leave home. Besides, have you not always dreamed of being able to dance naked in the rain?
No matter what the weather forecast indicates, you should plan to come to the event. We have the option to do many of the activities indoors, or simply delay them. Normally when there is rain it does not last long. If you live even just an hour away and it is raining, chances are it is not raining at Bare Oaks. Do not let yourself be discouraged when you are about to leave home. Besides, have you not always dreamed of being able to dance naked in the rain?
How do I get to Bare Oaks?
Any maps app will pinpoint the location of Bare Oaks. You will likely need a vehicular ride to get there, though other options are indicated below. It is about 15 minutes drive from Newmarket, or under 1 hour from downtown Toronto. If you do not have a vehicle, you could ask a friend with a car to come to the event with you. There is a train between Toronto and Newmarket, and you could then take an UBER or LYFT from there over to Bare Oaks (about $30?)
Additionally, a shuttle service from the GO train station is provided privately by a Bare Oaks resident. The van can take up to 5 passengers at a time. There are 3 trip possibilities quoted, coming and going to/from Bare Oaks. 1 - East Gwillembury GO station $20. 2 - Newmarket GO station $25 3 - YYZ Airport $125. Prices are for a one way trip and covers however many people are in the car. If you have previously visited Bare Oaks, please call the office to be cleared to get the phone number to order the shuttle. Office: 905-473-6060. If you have not been to Bare Oaks before but you are a known and trusted person in the Naturist community please contact Robert, the event organizer (email below) and he will see what can be done to get you in touch with the shuttle person.
The current GO train schedule from Union Station (or the Airport) indicates quite a few trip choices on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. If you want to use the train and then our shuttle, plan carefully.
Another option for travel between the train station or bus terminal and Bare Oaks is to use public transit. Bare Oaks now has a bus shelter right at the entrance! THIS OPTION IS WEEKDAYS ONLY, so it's just a FRIDAY option for Bodyfest. From Newmarket Bus Terminal, or from Newmarket GO Station (at Davis Drive and Superior Street), passengers can catch a bus: "York Region Transit route 50 Queensway" northbound and travel to the intersection of Leslie Street East and Queensville Side Rd. (about 7 km). Once at this intersection you will wait for your next and final ride... Within the previous 1 hour do the following: Call York Region Transit to book a ride on the Mobility-On-Request North service. The phone number is 1-866-744-1119. While on the phone, let the operator know that you want to use the Mobility-On-Request service and you will be located at Leslie Street and Queensville Side Rd, and wish to travel to 20237 Kennedy Road (which is Bare Oaks). Good luck! Leave lots of travel time and bring a book!
Please confirm all details mentioned on this page with current realities! Things do change!
Bare Oaks admin also suggests this option to be used at your own risk: carpoolworld.com. For further options and contact info, go to this page: bareoaks.ca/hours-contact.
Any maps app will pinpoint the location of Bare Oaks. You will likely need a vehicular ride to get there, though other options are indicated below. It is about 15 minutes drive from Newmarket, or under 1 hour from downtown Toronto. If you do not have a vehicle, you could ask a friend with a car to come to the event with you. There is a train between Toronto and Newmarket, and you could then take an UBER or LYFT from there over to Bare Oaks (about $30?)
Additionally, a shuttle service from the GO train station is provided privately by a Bare Oaks resident. The van can take up to 5 passengers at a time. There are 3 trip possibilities quoted, coming and going to/from Bare Oaks. 1 - East Gwillembury GO station $20. 2 - Newmarket GO station $25 3 - YYZ Airport $125. Prices are for a one way trip and covers however many people are in the car. If you have previously visited Bare Oaks, please call the office to be cleared to get the phone number to order the shuttle. Office: 905-473-6060. If you have not been to Bare Oaks before but you are a known and trusted person in the Naturist community please contact Robert, the event organizer (email below) and he will see what can be done to get you in touch with the shuttle person.
The current GO train schedule from Union Station (or the Airport) indicates quite a few trip choices on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. If you want to use the train and then our shuttle, plan carefully.
Another option for travel between the train station or bus terminal and Bare Oaks is to use public transit. Bare Oaks now has a bus shelter right at the entrance! THIS OPTION IS WEEKDAYS ONLY, so it's just a FRIDAY option for Bodyfest. From Newmarket Bus Terminal, or from Newmarket GO Station (at Davis Drive and Superior Street), passengers can catch a bus: "York Region Transit route 50 Queensway" northbound and travel to the intersection of Leslie Street East and Queensville Side Rd. (about 7 km). Once at this intersection you will wait for your next and final ride... Within the previous 1 hour do the following: Call York Region Transit to book a ride on the Mobility-On-Request North service. The phone number is 1-866-744-1119. While on the phone, let the operator know that you want to use the Mobility-On-Request service and you will be located at Leslie Street and Queensville Side Rd, and wish to travel to 20237 Kennedy Road (which is Bare Oaks). Good luck! Leave lots of travel time and bring a book!
Please confirm all details mentioned on this page with current realities! Things do change!
Bare Oaks admin also suggests this option to be used at your own risk: carpoolworld.com. For further options and contact info, go to this page: bareoaks.ca/hours-contact.
What happens when I first arrive at Bare Oaks?
You will see the Bare Oaks sign from the country highway. Turn into the driveway and arrive at a security gate. If this is your first time, don't be nervous! We are all friendly and helpful. Push the intercom button. A voice will greet you. Say: I’m here to attend Bodyfest!” The gate will open. As you drive forward (going east) you will pass through an area with parking. If you see a free spot here, grab it immediately. It is not far to the office where you register. If you drive as far as you can go and have not found a parking spot, pull over wherever you can temporarily as you deal with checking in. (Once fully checked in, you will be given directions to the overflow parking lots - there is a new lot near the entrance gate)
You have now parked in a spot or stopped your car to the side. We suggest that you shed your clothes at this time and leave them in the car. You should have previously prepared a carry-bag for the day (see below). Bring this bag with you and head for the main building. You’ll need an Identification card and your car license plate number when checking in at the Bare Oaks office. If your heart is pure don’t be nervous - you are in a friendly supportive place.
Ideally before you go into the office, it is better to first register at the Bodyfest Kiosk on the main lawn.
When you register at the Bodyfest kiosk you will, (1) complete a participation release form, (2) purchase the Bodyfest admission (bring cash, though we expect to be able to accept cards), OR show proof of having previously bought a ticket online, then (3) put on the Bodyfest wristband. We will have a list of previously purchased tickets, but in case of a mix-up, having your own proof of purchase will solve any problems. The wristband proves you are with Bodyfest so that you can get a 50% discount at the Bare Oaks registration counter in the office.
After completing Bodyfest check-in you MUST proceed to the Bare Oaks office and register there. If you are a newcomer you will be asked to view an orientation video about naturism and the expected social etiquette at this private park. You will need to provide ID for each person and the license plate number of your car. You will receive a parking authorization tag you hang on your mirror.
Return to your car. If you are not yet in a proper parking spot you’ll follow directions to the overflow lot. From that lot back to the front lawn is about a 10 minute walk, though there is also a frequent shuttle you can take.
You can seek out whatever Bodyfest activity is currently happening and join the group.
You will see the Bare Oaks sign from the country highway. Turn into the driveway and arrive at a security gate. If this is your first time, don't be nervous! We are all friendly and helpful. Push the intercom button. A voice will greet you. Say: I’m here to attend Bodyfest!” The gate will open. As you drive forward (going east) you will pass through an area with parking. If you see a free spot here, grab it immediately. It is not far to the office where you register. If you drive as far as you can go and have not found a parking spot, pull over wherever you can temporarily as you deal with checking in. (Once fully checked in, you will be given directions to the overflow parking lots - there is a new lot near the entrance gate)
You have now parked in a spot or stopped your car to the side. We suggest that you shed your clothes at this time and leave them in the car. You should have previously prepared a carry-bag for the day (see below). Bring this bag with you and head for the main building. You’ll need an Identification card and your car license plate number when checking in at the Bare Oaks office. If your heart is pure don’t be nervous - you are in a friendly supportive place.
Ideally before you go into the office, it is better to first register at the Bodyfest Kiosk on the main lawn.
When you register at the Bodyfest kiosk you will, (1) complete a participation release form, (2) purchase the Bodyfest admission (bring cash, though we expect to be able to accept cards), OR show proof of having previously bought a ticket online, then (3) put on the Bodyfest wristband. We will have a list of previously purchased tickets, but in case of a mix-up, having your own proof of purchase will solve any problems. The wristband proves you are with Bodyfest so that you can get a 50% discount at the Bare Oaks registration counter in the office.
After completing Bodyfest check-in you MUST proceed to the Bare Oaks office and register there. If you are a newcomer you will be asked to view an orientation video about naturism and the expected social etiquette at this private park. You will need to provide ID for each person and the license plate number of your car. You will receive a parking authorization tag you hang on your mirror.
Return to your car. If you are not yet in a proper parking spot you’ll follow directions to the overflow lot. From that lot back to the front lawn is about a 10 minute walk, though there is also a frequent shuttle you can take.
You can seek out whatever Bodyfest activity is currently happening and join the group.
Details: Checking in at the Bodyfest kiosk
If you purchased an advance ticket we should have your name on a list. Identify yourself to the greeter so that we can record your attendance. It would be wise to have a printout (or image on your phone) of proof of purchase in case there is some kind of mixup in our records. Otherwise…
• Purchase a ticket from the greeter. Cash is preferred, however we expect to be able to take card payments via a Stripe account on an ipad screen.
• Sign the participation release form. You will get the Bodyfest wristband, showing that you can participate in activities. If you are a “no photos person” you will also get a piece of red yarn tied to your wrist.
• We will take a photo of you holding up the release form so that we know who’s who. You may decline this, however it is a definitive way for us to know who does and does not want to appear in event photos.
• There will be optional sign-up sheets for the main events of the day. Adding your name will give us some idea what people are interested in. Please take a copy of the schedule print-out. There should be no problem joining an event that you did not sign up for, however some events use props/materials of which there will be a limited number.
You can now join whatever activity is in progress!
Note that events happen promptly on the hour and finish 45 minutes later. This allows for a small break. Try to assemble at the next event before the start time, on the hour.
If you purchased an advance ticket we should have your name on a list. Identify yourself to the greeter so that we can record your attendance. It would be wise to have a printout (or image on your phone) of proof of purchase in case there is some kind of mixup in our records. Otherwise…
• Purchase a ticket from the greeter. Cash is preferred, however we expect to be able to take card payments via a Stripe account on an ipad screen.
• Sign the participation release form. You will get the Bodyfest wristband, showing that you can participate in activities. If you are a “no photos person” you will also get a piece of red yarn tied to your wrist.
• We will take a photo of you holding up the release form so that we know who’s who. You may decline this, however it is a definitive way for us to know who does and does not want to appear in event photos.
• There will be optional sign-up sheets for the main events of the day. Adding your name will give us some idea what people are interested in. Please take a copy of the schedule print-out. There should be no problem joining an event that you did not sign up for, however some events use props/materials of which there will be a limited number.
You can now join whatever activity is in progress!
Note that events happen promptly on the hour and finish 45 minutes later. This allows for a small break. Try to assemble at the next event before the start time, on the hour.
What should I bring with me to Bodyfest?
Since you have no pockets, you’ll need some kind of bag or knapsack. See below the list of items we recommend you carry with you. A towel is very important as it is required that you place a towel on any chair or bench before sitting on it. This is for hygienic reasons. A good idea is TWO towels - a small one to sit on and a larger one for drying after a swim. You may bring your phone, but be aware that surreptitious image-taking will get you removed from the property. Keep your phone out of sight unless you absolutely need it. Forget about social media this weekend and stay in the real world!
Towels, wallet, car keys, phone/watch, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, sandals, tissues, mask, paper and pen, snacks. Optional: yoga mat, umbrella, flashlight.
After dark it could be cool outside and something like a poncho or hoodie could come in handy. If it is too cold to be nude outdoors after dark, it is acceptable to wear some clothing.
One of the side activities planned for is tie-dying. We may have some white t-shirts on hand that you can purchase but bring your own to ensure the shirt will fit you when done.
Since you have no pockets, you’ll need some kind of bag or knapsack. See below the list of items we recommend you carry with you. A towel is very important as it is required that you place a towel on any chair or bench before sitting on it. This is for hygienic reasons. A good idea is TWO towels - a small one to sit on and a larger one for drying after a swim. You may bring your phone, but be aware that surreptitious image-taking will get you removed from the property. Keep your phone out of sight unless you absolutely need it. Forget about social media this weekend and stay in the real world!
Towels, wallet, car keys, phone/watch, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, sandals, tissues, mask, paper and pen, snacks. Optional: yoga mat, umbrella, flashlight.
After dark it could be cool outside and something like a poncho or hoodie could come in handy. If it is too cold to be nude outdoors after dark, it is acceptable to wear some clothing.
One of the side activities planned for is tie-dying. We may have some white t-shirts on hand that you can purchase but bring your own to ensure the shirt will fit you when done.
What are the camping details?
There is a small fee for a camp spot. There are 2 areas. The main one is just east of the small lake which is a 5 to 10 minute walk from the main lawn and is designated for guests who commit to quiet time at night. Available is a modern indoor washroom and outdoor showers. The other area is closer to the main lawn, to the west and past the mini golf and is designated for those who want to stay up late playing music and having conversations. Washroom and showers available in the main building.
There is a small fee for a camp spot. There are 2 areas. The main one is just east of the small lake which is a 5 to 10 minute walk from the main lawn and is designated for guests who commit to quiet time at night. Available is a modern indoor washroom and outdoor showers. The other area is closer to the main lawn, to the west and past the mini golf and is designated for those who want to stay up late playing music and having conversations. Washroom and showers available in the main building.
What about food?
The outdoor/indoor restaurant, Bare Bistro, will be open all day except for change-over times between breakfast, lunch and dinner. It will be buffet style so service should be reasonably fast. For menu details and hours please check barebistro.ca. Bring whatever additional snacks you enjoy. There is a small confectionary area in the main office with water, pop and snacks plus other useful items.
The outdoor/indoor restaurant, Bare Bistro, will be open all day except for change-over times between breakfast, lunch and dinner. It will be buffet style so service should be reasonably fast. For menu details and hours please check barebistro.ca. Bring whatever additional snacks you enjoy. There is a small confectionary area in the main office with water, pop and snacks plus other useful items.
"I heard there is photography! How is that going to work?"
Naked Club events lean toward combining fun naturist activities with image creation so that we can show the world how inspiring and liberating the experience of being clothes-free in a social and natural environment can be. We do offer a few small events with no photography from time-to-time, but our emphasis is to normalize what we do through visuals. Attendees should be willing and able to defend their participation to their peers who might be unfairly discriminatory. Individuals who are not photo-shy get invited to more events!
At Bodyfest we have several photographers shooting photos (and some video) throughout the event. Historically the clear majority of attendies have given permission to appear in photos and have those photos seen publically. The minority wear a red wristband to show there are restrictions for them - this is an inconvenience for us, but we believe newcomers should be able to join in.
During the event, photographers look for attendies wearing our red wristbands and try to avoid angles where their faces would show up. The process is not perfect but all the photo originals come back to Robert who vets the photos during the final processing of the images, and faces are blurred when noticed. The bodies of these individuals are not blurred however. People wearing our red wristbands will still sometimes appear in photos but always in a way that their faces cannot be identified. Note that if you have distinct tattoos you may still be identifiable.
When you first check in with us at the start of the event, this is when you define yourself as a “no photos person” by wearing a red wristband. Release forms are completed and an ID photo is taken of you to establish your status for later reference.
Naked Club events lean toward combining fun naturist activities with image creation so that we can show the world how inspiring and liberating the experience of being clothes-free in a social and natural environment can be. We do offer a few small events with no photography from time-to-time, but our emphasis is to normalize what we do through visuals. Attendees should be willing and able to defend their participation to their peers who might be unfairly discriminatory. Individuals who are not photo-shy get invited to more events!
At Bodyfest we have several photographers shooting photos (and some video) throughout the event. Historically the clear majority of attendies have given permission to appear in photos and have those photos seen publically. The minority wear a red wristband to show there are restrictions for them - this is an inconvenience for us, but we believe newcomers should be able to join in.
During the event, photographers look for attendies wearing our red wristbands and try to avoid angles where their faces would show up. The process is not perfect but all the photo originals come back to Robert who vets the photos during the final processing of the images, and faces are blurred when noticed. The bodies of these individuals are not blurred however. People wearing our red wristbands will still sometimes appear in photos but always in a way that their faces cannot be identified. Note that if you have distinct tattoos you may still be identifiable.
When you first check in with us at the start of the event, this is when you define yourself as a “no photos person” by wearing a red wristband. Release forms are completed and an ID photo is taken of you to establish your status for later reference.
Do I have to do everything listed in the schedule?
You can do as many or as few activities and workshops as you like. It would help us organize if you let us know at our kiosk which items you will try to participate in. FYI there are other amenities open to your use including the pool, mini golf, volleyball, trails and the beach by the small lake.
You can do as many or as few activities and workshops as you like. It would help us organize if you let us know at our kiosk which items you will try to participate in. FYI there are other amenities open to your use including the pool, mini golf, volleyball, trails and the beach by the small lake.
