You may have seen it on the news, on social media, or even on the tube: hundreds of people riding the underground with no trousers on, in the middle of winter. On Sunday the 7th of December London commuters braved the cold to strip off to their underwear for this unusual event.

The No Trousers Tube Ride, as it is officially called, is an annual event that takes place on the first Sunday of January. It started in London in 2009, inspired by the No Pants Subway Ride, which was created by Improv Everywhere, a New York-based comedy collective, in 2002.

What does it mean? Is it a protest, a prank, or a party? What is the reaction to the event? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

To listen to the last episodes, you can click here:

⁠What are the pros and cons of homeownership in the UK?⁠

⁠How can I make and keep my new year’s resolutions?⁠

⁠Why does the year begin on January 1st?⁠

A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.

First Broadcast: 11/1/2024

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