Londoners Ditch Their Trousers: A Midwinter Ride of Fun and Laughter

A Playful Tradition Takes Over the London Underground

On Sunday, January 12, 2025, the London Underground became an unexpected stage for a playful tradition: the Official No Trousers Tube Ride. Hundreds of Londoners, shedding their trousers and hopping onto the Tube in their underwear, set off to brighten the city's otherwise dull midwinter. The event was a celebration of silliness, with no deeper meaning or cause—just the joy of doing something out of the ordinary, purely for the fun of it.

The Journey Begins

Participants gathered in Chinatown before making their way to the Piccadilly Circus Underground station. Some were fully prepared for the journey, while others, faced with overcrowded carriages, struggled to shed their trousers. Regardless, selfies were snapped, smiles were shared, and tourists couldn't help but stare, bewildered by the sight of seemingly normal commuters with no trousers. The playful atmosphere made it clear that this was all about having fun, without any ulterior motive.

Image Source - Independent

How It All Began

The tradition, which first began in New York City in 2002, was the brainchild of comedian Charlie Todd. His idea was simple: What would happen if someone boarded a subway train in winter, dressed in a scarf, hat, and gloves, but without trousers? The absurdity was not in the missing trousers alone, but in the idea that other commuters, when getting on at subsequent stops, also wouldn't be wearing any. The riders would act as though it were completely normal, making it even funnier for everyone else.

This quirky idea quickly gained traction, and “No Pants Day” has since spread to cities worldwide, including Berlin, Prague, Warsaw, and Washington, D.C. London first joined the fun in 2009, and every year, the event grows bigger and more creative.

Spreading Joy Amidst the Ordinary

Dave Selkirk, a 40-year-old personal trainer and one of the event's ringleaders, summed up the essence of the day: “There’s so much bad, so much not fun going on. It’s nice to do something just for the sake of it.” The event aims to inject joy into the daily grind, offering a lighthearted break from the norm.

Personal Stories Behind the Fun

In addition to the fun, there are personal stories behind the participation. For instance, Basil Long, a lawyer, showed up wearing a down coat and hat but transformed into his new look—a white shirt, rainbow-striped boxer shorts, and Underground-themed socks—by the end of his Tube journey. "I just saw it online and thought, why not? It’s always a question, isn’t it?” he mused.

For others, like 43-year-old chef Miriam Correa, the ride held a deeper significance. Miriam wanted to participate because previous No Trousers Tube Rides often showcased scantily clad, slim women. “I am a real woman,” she declared. “There’s no reason to be ashamed of my shape. All bodies are perfect."

Image Source - Independent

A Spirit of Fun, No Agendas

The spirit of the event remains unchanged: harmless fun, no politics, no agendas, just a simple way to spread laughter in a world that could use a little more silliness.

Image Source - Euronews (Alberto Pezzali/AP)

London Underground: A Platform for Brand Engagement

Aside from these joyful occasions, London’s Underground network also offers incredible opportunities for brands to engage with a broad, diverse audience. With millions of people commuting daily, advertising on the Tube provides a unique platform to connect with London’s busy, dynamic travelers.

As the city gears up for another bustling season, now is the perfect time for brands to make their mark. London Underground Advertising presents an unmatched opportunity to elevate your brand’s presence in front of a global audience, helping it soar to new heights during peak travel times.

Get in touch with London Underground Advertising today to discover how your brand can stand out in the heart of the city’s vibrant transport system.