World Naked Bike Ride Returns to Cork City Centre on 18 July
Cork, brace yourself: bare cheeks hit the city centre 5pm to 7pm, Saturday 18 July, to highlight road safety. Clothed stewards lead the way.
The World Naked Bike Ride will once again take to Cork's streets this summer, marking 25 years since the global protest began and 16 years since Cork joined the movement to highlight cyclist safety on the roads.
The ride began 25 years ago, following a series of road accidents in and near Zaragoza, Spain, that claimed the lives of six young cyclists. The tragedy sparked a worldwide movement, with hundreds of thousands of cyclists riding naked through city streets to show drivers how vulnerable cyclists are in a collision.
Cork joined the international protest 16 years ago. Organisers say the public reaction has been positive throughout, including an annual reception on the steps of Cork City Hall by successive Lords Mayor.
This year's ride takes place through Cork city centre from 5pm to 7pm on Saturday, 18 July 2026.
Riders will be preceded by clothed stewards, who go ahead of the group to warn passers-by who may be offended by the sight of nudity. Local artist collective Bodypainting Cork will cover most participants in bodypaint designs, adding to what organisers describe as a large, loud and colourful spectacle.
The event's central message to drivers is to notice cyclists on the road every day of the year, not only on the one day the ride takes place unclothed.
With a larger than usual number of riders registered for 2026, organisers are appealing for additional volunteer stewards. Anyone interested in helping can email NakedBikeCork@gmail.com.
