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# Subway Spa Pranks
Improv Everywhere Set Up a Relaxing Spa Prank on the Subway

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2014-08-06 | Unique
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prank-on-the-subway
References: [luxurylaunches](http://luxurylaunches.com/travel/pranksters-turn-a-new-york-subway-platform-into-a-spa-and-new-yorkers-loved-it.php) & [improveverywhere](http://improveverywhere.com/2014/08/05/the-subway-spa/)

Subways are so often crowded and full of tired, cranky people that it's not a place that you typically associate with relaxation—unless you got to experience the Improv Everywhere spa prank on the subway.

Inspired by the fact that "NYC’s un-air-conditioned platforms can feel like a sauna," the infamous prankster group staged a [mini-spa on the subway](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/saunazen), complete with complimentary water, towels, [sauna benches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/othership-location) and massages for people passing by. Although there were several people in on the prank acting as spa-goers, there were also several members of the public who jumped right in and took advantage of the the chance to [put up their feet and relax](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mind-oasis), even on their way to or from somewhere on the bustling NYC subway.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 4.8/10
- Popularity: 48% | Activity: 89% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Pranks](https://www.trendhunter.com/pranks)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Improvised Public Experiences:** Creating unexpected and enjoyable experiences in public spaces to bring relaxation and joy to people amidst their busy lives.
- **Disruptive Marketing Tactics:** Using unconventional methods, like staging pranks, to capture people's attention and create memorable brand experiences.
- **Urban Wellness:** Integrating wellness practices and services into urban environments, offering moments of relaxation and self-care in the midst of hectic city life.

### Where This Applies

- **Hospitality and Tourism:** Incorporating playful and unique experiences into hotels, resorts, or tourist attractions to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- **Advertising and Branding:** Leveraging disruptive marketing tactics to promote products or services, effectively catching the attention of consumers and creating brand recognition.
- **Public Health and Wellness:** Developing initiatives that address wellness and relaxation needs in urban settings, aiming to improve public well-being and quality of life.

## Related on Trend Hunter

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- [Sandwich-Inspired Water Slides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dip-n-slides.md)
- [Lunchtime Yacht Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pop-up-on-a-yacht.md)
- [Martini-Themed Spa Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/porn-spa-martini-experience.md)
- [Promotional Cold Saunas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cold-sauna.md)
