PLUR rave refers to a core philosophy and code of ethics within rave culture that stands for:
- Peace : Creating safe spaces free from aggression where everyone can dance freely and enjoy themselves without fear or judgment.
- Love : Sharing unconditional love and kindness at raves and festivals through hugs, compliments, and gestures of goodwill.
- Unity : Bringing people together regardless of their differences, celebrating collective experiences and the shared connection of music.
- Respect : Honoring personal space, boundaries, and the feelings of others in the rave community to maintain a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
PLUR originated in the early 1990s rave scene in New York and is often credited to DJ Frankie Bones, who emphasized peace, love, and unity after a fight broke out at a rave. Later "Respect" was added to complete the acronym. It is more than a motto—PLUR is a way of life that encourages positive energy, trust, and community at raves. It is also symbolized through rituals like the kandi bracelet exchange, where ravers trade colorful bracelets and perform a special handshake representing each element of PLUR. Ultimately, PLUR fosters an environment where music lovers come together to celebrate life, kindness, and connection, making rave culture unique and inclusive. This ethos remains central to rave and electronic dance music (EDM) scenes worldwide, emphasizing that raves are not just parties but spaces for shared joy, acceptance, and mutual care.
