Visiting the Black Rock City Temple Safely and Respectfully
During the Black Rock City event, the Temple Guardians help provide a safe space at the Temple. In return, a respectful consideration of the Temple itself, the land, and its original inhabitants is asked of those visiting. Please be mindful of the closing hours of the Temple to prepare for Sunday night burn, and of guidance about placing human remains at the Temple.
Human Remains at the Temple
The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe has requested participants refrain from leaving cremated human remains in the Temple. As inhabitants and caretakers of this land for centuries, the Paiute believe that leaving non-native human remains on native land adversely affects the living spirits within the Lake and Black Rock Desert.
Out of respect for Paiute traditions and beliefs, please respect our neighbors’ wishes and find alternative ways to pay tribute to loved ones without leaving their remains in the Temple structure. You are, of course, welcome to honor loved ones with tributes and memorials, or to bring ashes into the Temple space and remove them before the burn.
Sunday Pre-Burn Closing Hours
The Temple will stop receiving visitors at sunrise on the Sunday before Labor Day to safely secure the perimeter. Temple Guardian Offering Carriers will be on hand to place offerings on behalf of those who may need assistance after the Temple has closed. Please ask any Guardian standing at the perimeter to direct you. You are still welcome to view the Temple from beyond the perimeter during this time.
The Temple burn is scheduled annually for approximately 8pm PT that evening on the Sunday before Labor Day.
Gentle Reminders
Be respectful of photography at the Temple, as offerings are personal. YOU MUST ASK FOR CONSENT BEFORE DOCUMENTING SOMEONE’S EXPERIENCE IN THE TEMPLE. Most participants prefer to not have their tributes photographed, or themselves photographed in a vulnerable moment
Unlike much of the art on the playa, the Temple is uniquely not meant for climbing. It is structurally built to support offerings during the week, but equally constructed for its deliberate safe collapse. Do not climb.
Please refrain from smoking, smudging, or placing candles or incense inside the Temple. This will help ensure the Temple, its participants and their offerings remain safe until Sunday’s burn.
Thank you for your respect and mindfulness. Learn more about the Temple Guardians and how to volunteer here.