LifestyleLondon's no trousers tube ride brings winter cheer to commuters

London's no trousers tube ride brings winter cheer to commuters

On one day each year, whilst riding the London Underground, you might encounter an unexpected sight: hundreds of people travelling without trousers. This is due to the annual "No Trousers Tube Ride" event, which has a singular goal.

Passengers without trousers appeared in the London Underground
Passengers without trousers appeared in the London Underground
Images source: © Getty Images | Matthew Chattle

On the Sunday afternoon of 12th January this year, hundreds of Londoners riding the Underground were missing a significant piece of clothing – trousers. This was in connection with the annual "No Trousers Tube Ride" event.

Fun above all

The inaugural event was held in 2002 in New York, initiated by comedian Charlie Todd. Since then, it has gained popularity in over 60 major cities worldwide, including Berlin, Prague, Washington, London, and even Warsaw. It is particularly celebrated in the United Kingdom.

The event aims to inject a bit of humour and enjoyment into the often dreary winter days. “There’s so much bad, so much not fun going on. It’s nice to do something just for the sake of it,” admitted participant Dave Selkirk, a 40-year-old personal trainer, as quoted by apnews.com.

Beyond entertainment, some participants also have their missions. Miriam Correa, a 43-year-old chef at a London restaurant, participated in the event to show that all bodies are beautiful. “I am a real woman,” stated Correa, adding that there is no reason to be ashamed of her figure.

A photo from the London Underground from 12th January this year.
A photo from the London Underground from 12th January this year.© Getty Images | BEN MONTGOMERY PHOTOGRAPHY

Reactions and atmosphere

While on the Underground, participants snapped selfies, exchanged smiles, and tourists watched with surprise. The event, though unusual and somewhat controversial, typically evokes smiles and positive emotions from other passengers rather than anger or embarrassment. Interestingly, people of all ages participate – both young and old.

“It's meant to be innocent fun,” says Todd. In London, the first edition took place in 2009, and since then, the event has enjoyed unwavering popularity, admitted Charlie Todd, the event's initiator, in an interview with apnews.com.

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