PANG'S Monthly Naked Socials

Sun., Feb. 20, 3-6 p.m., $25, Sansom Street Gym, 2020 Sansom St.

by Josh Middleton

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Published: Feb 16, 2011

Winter is no friend to the gays. Not only are we out there freezing our nicely trimmed balls off, but the extra layers of bulky clothing don't do justice to the hard work we've been putting in at the gym all season long. But thankfully, show-off-your-bod options still abound in the frigid months — and when I say show off your bod, I'm talking every man-glistening inch.

Philadelphia Area Naturist Guys (PANG) is a gay nudist group operating out of Fairless Hills, Pa. They host regular get-togethers — like house parties and day trips to nude beaches — that are restricted to group members and their guests, but once a month they bring their bare fannies to Sansom Street Gym for a soiree that's open to anyone, as long as they feel like mingling in the buff. Usually lasting three hours, each party includes sips and nibbles and the option to use the gym's facilities for the rest of the night.

You may think that a function of this kind would attract pervs looking to get a free peek, but PANG takes every measure to ensure attendees feel content and accepted. On their website, they welcome men, age 21 and up, of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities. And if you happen to get a woody, it's nothing to be ashamed of: "Erections take a back seat."

PANG recognizes that boys will be boys and hookups are inevitable, but hanky-panky is restricted in and around party boundaries. This idea is rooted in their philosophy that, instead of promoting sexuality, nudity should encourage healthy self-esteem and awaken that budding free spirit within us all. Let it shine, fellas! Sun., Feb. 20, 3-6 p.m., $25, Sansom Street Gym, 2020 Sansom St., 267-330-0151, sansomstreetgym.com, phillynakedguys.org.

(joshua.middleton@citypaper.net)

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