Sex-positive nudists celebrate Fleshtivus

OK, OK. So not all of the 50 people who attended last week's "Fleshtivus" party in south St. Louis were nudist, per se. Some were exhibitionists. Others labeled themselves as "sex-positive" — believing that their sexuality (and exposed genitalia) is nothing to be ashamed of. A handful didn't get naked at all. They just took in the scenery.

"It's a clothing-optional party," explained one of the party's organizers, Kendra Holliday, when Riverfront Times interviewed her the day before the event. "It's whatever you feel like. Some people may just be topless. Some might wear an open robe. Of course, I'll be naked the whole time — you've got to lead by example."

Members of the website Sex Positive St. Louis have been hosting naked parties every other month for the past year, with this month's first-ever Fleshtivus, a spinoff of the Seinfeldian holiday, Festivus.

"Instead of airing your grievances (like Festivus), we'll share with each other our biggest regret of the past year," said Holliday. "There's something about sharing your personal disappointments while naked that opens you up to a new level of vulnerability. It can be very cathartic." — Chad Garrison

DAILY RFT READERS' COMMENTS

Brings new meaning to the Festivus Pole. Mike N.

They should rename the event YAWNukkah. I've grown bored with her. Must be a slow news day. Oh wait, a knife-wielding man was shot to death by Overland police in a county park last night. Pwnzorzz