Cuddle Parties, An Alternative for those testing the waters.

Cory Silverberg writes:

The term “cuddle party” came into popular usage through vast media exposure of parties being organized by Marcia Baczynksi and Reid Mihalko in New York. The parties provide people an opportunity to explore touch, communication, and affection without the pressure of explicit sexual activity. When organized by Marcia and Reid, the parties have clearly defined rules, monitors, and a guiding philosophy. From the official cuddle party website:

Cuddle Party is a playful social event designed for adults to explore communication, boundaries and affection. Facilitated by a "Cuddle Lifeguard on Duty," who creates a comfortable, non-threatening environment, it's a great place to make new friends and to learn about yourself.

The brainchild of two relationship coaches, Cuddle Party was conceived in February 2004.

zSB(3,3) Since then, Reid Mihalko and Marcia Baczynski have sought to bring clean, safe, welcomed affection to the world through these events.
While the idea of exploring non-sexual touch is by no means something new, and get togethers similar to cuddle parties (probably minus the flannel pajamas) have been taking place for years. Encounter groups in the 70s, and non-sexual touch events tied to weekend raves in the 90s are common examples.