Commuters Strip Down To Their Underwear For International No Pants Subway Ride Day

 The No Pants Subway Ride Day is an annual event held in cities around the world, in which participants ride the subway in underwear.

 The event is usually takes place in early January every year, on January 9 this year, and is intended to be a lighthearted prank that brings a bit of fun and humor to public transportation. Interestingly, it has been observed in different parts of the world in over 60 cities since 2002 by Improv Everywhere, a New York City-based prank collective. 

 The idea was simple — to confuse (and hopefully amuse) bystanders. Back then just seven took part in the trouserless train activity. In a hidden camera video from the scene, the other passengers look confused at first and then break into laughter. It was a light-hearted prank that quickly gained popularity. The following year, there were about 30 participants, including women. Now they have coordinators worldwide to make sure everyone knows and follows the instructions for this crazy holiday and hundreds of people brave in wintery conditions take part in the No Pants Subway Ride Day, wearing pretty undies. 

  The event is not intended to be offensive or sexual in nature, but rather to bring a bit of fun and humor to public transportation. Participants are encouraged to keep a straight face and act as if nothing is out of the ordinary. Despite the sometimes strange looks from bystanders and police, the event is generally tolerated by authorities.