In 1972, approximately 20,000 like minded individuals gathered in Roosevelt National Forest to celebrate self-sustainability. From this gathering, now annually known as Rainbow Gathering, a 'diverse and decentralized social fabric began to weave itself from threads of hippie culture, back-to-the-landers, american indian spiritual teachings, pacifist-anarchist traditions, eastern mysticism, and the legacy of depression era hobo street wisdom,' according to the website. Since its inception, Rainbow Gathering has grown into an annual summer wide gathering that inhabits a different National Forest each year. The gathering exists in order to, "renew our commitment to a better way of life, to be closer to the Earth, and to share Love & Joy with one another." What makes Rainbow unique is its cost to participate: nothing. Essentially, a human shows up with various goods, and barters them amongst their brothers and sisters. People give and receive freely, and no real currency exists. It is an escape from social norms, living with a community committed to living simply. However, there is a level of development on the land. People construct water pipe systems to make water available for cooking and drinking. Makeshift kitchens and ovens are erected from the ground using whatever tools available. Much more than just a bunch of dirty hippies gathering in the forest, Rainbow represents active social change. Rather than lobby for the government to take action, the Rainbow family simply lives the way they feel is best. And after the gathering has ended, there is no trace that it ever existed.
Rainbow has inspired similar gatherings around the nation such as Burning Man, and Water Woman. The future Villages in the Sky gathering will round out the representation of the elements by humans. Earth, Wind, Fire and Water.
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