The first time a put on a Free Hugs event I was terrified.

Was I breaking the law?

Would I get in trouble?

In this blog, I’ll share with you my experience leading free hugs events and give you tips on how to do it yourself.

But first, a video!

Is It Legal?

On the Free Hugs Campaign website they say, “Make sure to check your local laws…” I’ve heard of a few cases outside of the U.S. where people were fined for offering free hugs. My protocol is that if anyone – a police officer or person of authority – asks me to move locations or stop, that’s just what I’ll do. (After I offer them a hug.) I’ve held several Free Hugs events in Santa Monica and had no issues at all.

Location

Pick a location where there’s lots of foot traffic such as fairs, festivals, art walks, city centers and farmer’s markets. In your description, provide a specific meeting point such as in front of a specific store or restaurant or at a specific cross street. Give landmarks in your event description so it’s easy to find you.

Choose a Date and Time

Select a date and time when your location has the most foot traffic. It’s more fun to offer free hugs when there are enough people out there to say Yes!

Can I Offer Free Hugs By Myself?

If you want to be spontaneous, just make a Free Hugs sign. Go somewhere public and take Nike’s advice – Just Do It. If you’re someone who prefers to plan ahead, set a date a few weeks from now and make it a social experience. Free Hugs events are relatively easy to organize and (in my opinion) super fun to run.

How to Advertise Your Event

If you’re into social media, you could create a Facebook event or use your other favorite social media platforms. If you prefer to email – communicate with your friends that way. Or (gasp!) give them a call.

Free Hugs Signs

You can make a Free Hugs sign with paper and markers or get fancy and have some laminated at your local print shop. Decide if you want to bring along extra signs for the other people you’ve invited to if you want them to bring their own.

The Day of the Event

If you’re organizing an event and people are meeting you, show up to your meeting place fifteen minutes early. Be ready to welcome people who arrive early. (They always do!) Some attendees might be very nervous. As best you can, be friendly and welcoming as you wait with them for the event to begin. It’s exciting!

A note for Cuddle Sanctuary regulars: During our weekly workshops, we give careful thought and ask ourselves, “do I really want a hug?” In contrast, at a free hug event, we shift the attention to being of service to the community and being a “yes” to those that are brave enough to accept a hug from a stranger.

When it’s time to begin, spread out in groups of one to four people and simply hold up your sign, smile, breathe and wait. Be prepared for many people to walk by and not want a hug. That’s perfectly fine. And be sure not to pressure anyone to hug you – that’s not fun for anyone. Instead, relax, be open and ready to offer a hug to those who want one.

Ending the Event

When it’s time to wrap up, thank your fellow huggers and say good-bye. Take a quiet moment for yourself later in the day or evening. Appreciate yourself for being such an open, giving person and for being brave.

Thank you for being a gift to your community!