This summer, Madrid is bringing back an unusual sight at one of its municipal pools: for one day, people will be able to swim without a bikini or swimsuit, on a special day that is less about titillation and much more about freedom, body diversity, and ways of engaging with public spaces.
In 2026, there are two official “swimsuit-optional” days in the municipal network: the Aluche pool (Latina district) will join the initiative on Sunday, June 21, while the Lago pool (Casa de Campo, Moncloa-Aravaca district) already held its event on Sunday, June 7.
In both cases, the format is the same: the entire day is designated as swimwear-optional, within the regular opening hours of the summer pools. You can arrive at any time, just like on any other Sunday, and decide whether to swim in a bikini or swimsuit—or go without.
In previous years, the response was very high: more than 60% of users went without swimsuits— about 350 people, according to the organizers—which has encouraged them to repeat and consolidate the event in Madrid’s summer calendar.
Who is promoting it and what is the goal?
No-Swimsuit Day is organized in collaboration with nudist associations and groups working for bodily freedom and the normalization of non-sexualized nudity in public spaces. Its main objectives are: to normalize nudism as another legal and respectful option; to celebrate the diversity of bodies, ages, and sizes; and to open a calm debate on dress codes at swimming pools and municipal spaces.
Although swimwear is optional, a series of rules remain in effect that should be clearly understood:
- Photos and videos are prohibited without the express consent of the people appearing in them.
- The usual pool rules remain in effect: no glass, no loud music without headphones, and respect for lifeguards and staff.
- Staring, comments, or harassing behavior may result in expulsion; the goal is a relaxed and respectful atmosphere.
- Families can bring children as usual: there is no “special” content beyond the mere fact that there are naked bodies in the pool.
