, we will investigate the controversies: The clash between traditional Catholics and nudist groups, the legal nuances of nudity on public holidays in France, and the future of "Naturist Noel."
, we will explore the gift exchange (do you wrap gifts for naked people? What is the etiquette of a naked Secret Santa?) and the infamous "Morning Swim" on Christmas Day—where the brave dive into the icy Mediterranean to wash away the sins of the feast. , we will investigate the controversies: The clash
Welcome to the world of the .
The begins at 17:00. A long oak table is laden with foie gras, oysters, and clementines. The men are bare; the women are bare; the children (for this is a family-friendly event) run by, painted as reindeer, squealing with joy. The host, a 60-year-old provençal named Jean-Luc, uncorks the first bottle of Champagne. The begins at 17:00
It is freezing. 3°C (37°F). There is no snow, but the stars are blindingly bright in the French countryside. Fifty naked people step out into the night. There is a collective gasp—not of horror, but of exhilaration. The host, a 60-year-old provençal named Jean-Luc, uncorks
Jean-Luc lights a lantern. "This is the new beginning," he announces. "Adam and Eve were not ashamed of the cold. They were only ashamed of the lie. Tonight, we tell no lies."
By Philippe Durand, Special Correspondent on Naturist Culture