The Burning Man Festival faced a setback last year when the Aussie Dome, a popular attraction, was unable to host an event due to damage from severe winds in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert.
This was disappointing for many festival attendees who have come to expect the dome’s unique activities each year. Organizers are keen to ensure that the Aussie Dome returns, particularly since it’s a defining part of the experience.
The requirements for the dome are quite extensive, including 80 mattresses, 34 air-conditioned beds, and—wait for it—around 2,000 sets of sheets, not to mention significant quantities of lube. It’s not just a wild, fun space; it’s about consent and safety.
The non-profit group organizing the event is seeking community support to get the dome up and running again through a fundraising campaign. They’ve set a goal of $30,000, and the good news is they are on track to meet it.
So, what’s the money for? Well, the main dome costs a hefty $25,000. Plus, they’re budgeting $5,500 for a circus tent to serve as a workspace, and another $3,000 for a smaller tent focused on orientation and consent.
In addition to these costs, about $10,000 will go toward ensuring the dome can withstand the elements, including repairs to shade structures used by volunteers.
Other expenses will be managed by camp members, including crucial supplies like lube and safe sex products, sheets, clean-up services, and electricity.
The Aussie Dome has been a fixture at Burning Man for over two decades, drawing roughly 10% of attendees annually. Organizers are hopeful for its return this year, given its longstanding significance to the festival.
