Bear Run Etiquette
Remember - use caution when delving into bear territory. It's their home you're visiting when attending a Bear Run. I hope the following tips help you behave like a well brought up cub. If not, there's always the paddle when you get home!!
Do's:
Share the Honey – Actually, give generously. Most Runs are fundraisers for local charities and are supported by volunteers – who put in tons of hours to make your weekend woofy. Donate, support the auctions, say a kind word to the volunteers and genuinely appreciate all the hard work that goes into making a beary successful event.
Explore the Wildlife – This is your chance to meet new bears, learn about our history, and get involved. Leave the gossip at home.
Rub Some Bellies – Have a good time, create some memories, meet some new friends and catch up with some old ones.
Never try to corner a bear for any reason. You may be blocking their view of a cute cub.
Never leave your food unattended - Even the briefest of times; management is not responsible if your beer goes missing.
Don't Make Me Come Over There - Listen to the Ranger. Be nice to volunteers. If they ask you to do something, or especially if they ask you to stop doing something, remember they have the overall experience to consider. These are your bear brothers, be nice.
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Bear Runs
Today's bear runs such as Lazy Bear Weekend and Drenched Fur are an outgrowth of the motorcycle runs of the 50's and 60's.
Vintage Bear and Leather Events
Photos courtesy of CC Grizzly Bear's World
The early Bear gatherings in San Francisco were called Bear Expo. Many of the men involved in putting those on created International Bear Rendezvous (Rainbow MC members Lurch, David Dysart, Steve Stafford - all now gone) so the funds could go to charity. By the mid-90s the triple crown of Bear events was considered to be IBR in SF, Bear Pride in Chicago and Bear Bust in Orlando. Many men traveled the circuit making new friendships and renewing old ones.
Bears still congregate at bear events often called a "Run" and these take place all around the world. These events usually take place over 3-4 day weekends and involve incredibly fun activities- lots of good food, contests, sight-seeing, sale of bear merchandise, etc.
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