Portland’s nude cycling extravaganza is back this weekend, which means it’s time to either flock to or avoid the big event.

For the uninitiated, the World Naked Bike Ride is officially a protest – for cyclist safety, against oil dependency and in support of body positivity – but it’s best known for its colorful, carnival-like atmosphere and for filling city streets with throngs of naked and nearly-naked bodies.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event.

WHEN IS IT?

The 2019 World Naked Bike Ride will take place Saturday, June 29. The ride typically begins at around 9 p.m., with crowds gathering at the starting location throughout the evening.

WHERE DOES IT START?

This year’s starting location is Laurelhurst Park, at Southeast Oak Street and Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard.

WHAT WILL THE ROUTE BE?

Organizers always keep the exact route a secret, in order to deter people from lining the streets and posing a threat to cyclists as they pass. But it’s a pretty safe bet that this year’s ride will pass through at least one of the several popular business districts near Laurelhurst Park, which could include the Stark, Belmont and Hawthorne areas.

DO I HAVE TO BE NAKED TO RIDE?

The event’s motto is “bare as you dare,” and many riders opt to not be fully nude at all. Costumes are common, covering up whatever skin participants don’t want exposed. If you’ll be participating, you should read our guide to proper naked bike ride etiquette.

CAN I WATCH?

Organizers point out that the ride is a protest, not a parade, and discourage people from lining up to watch. That said, spectators typically crowd the starting location, and people always wind up catching an eyeful from local businesses and neighborhood streets.

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE THERE?

A rider count from 2018 was never released, but since 2013 the event has drawn between 8,000 and 10,000 participants each year.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER?

Participants aren’t allowed to linger at the ending location, but organizers have put together two afterparties this year. Crush Bar on Southeast Morrison Street will host a DJ and drink specials for riders, while an outdoor tiki-themed dance party will take place at an undisclosed location.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO PARTICIPATE?

You can read a firsthand account from a previous year’s ride that answers all your burning questions, including how comfortable it is to ride a bike naked (spoiler: much more comfortable than you’d think).

Have more questions? The World Naked Bike Ride has an FAQ section online with more information.

--Jamie Hale | jhale@oregonian.com | @HaleJamesB