By Stephen Traveling is not just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing different cultures. Across the globe, people celebrate some of the strangest traditions and festivals, reflecting their history, beliefs, and way of life.
From cheese rolling to tomato fights, here are some of the weirdest travel traditions and festivals that will leave you amazed!
1. La Tomatina – Spain
Every year, the streets of Buñol, Spain, turn into a sea of red as thousands of people throw tomatoes at each other. La Tomatina is the world’s biggest food fight, held on the last Wednesday of August. The tradition began in 1945 when a food fight broke out during a parade. Today, people from around the world gather to take part in this messy but fun event.
2. Baby Jumping Festival – Spain
Spain has no shortage of bizarre festivals. The “El Colacho” festival in Castrillo de Murcia involves men dressed as devils jumping over newborn babies. This tradition dates back to the 1600s and is believed to cleanse babies of original sin and protect them from evil spirits. Though unusual, locals take this tradition very seriously.
3. Monkey Buffet Festival – Thailand
Lopburi, Thailand, hosts a grand feast every November—not for people, but for monkeys! The Monkey Buffet Festival is a way for locals to thank the thousands of macaques that bring tourists to their town. Tables filled with fruits, vegetables, and sweets are set up, and the monkeys happily enjoy the feast.
4. Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling – England
Imagine chasing a rolling wheel of cheese down a steep hill! In Gloucestershire, England, participants run, tumble, and roll down Cooper’s Hill in pursuit of a 9-pound round of cheese. The first person to reach the bottom wins the cheese. Though injuries are common, thrill-seekers from all over the world join this wild race every May.
5. Kanamara Matsuri – Japan
Also known as the “Festival of the Steel Phallus,” this unique event in Kawasaki, Japan, celebrates fertility and safe childbirth. Held in April, the festival includes giant phallic-shaped floats, sweets, and souvenirs. Though it may seem odd, the event promotes awareness of reproductive health and safety.
6. Night of the Radishes – Mexico
On December 23rd, the city of Oaxaca in Mexico hosts the “Noche de Rábanos” (Night of the Radishes). Artists carve massive radishes into detailed sculptures, often depicting scenes from Mexican folklore and history. The tradition began in the 1800s as a way for farmers to attract customers to their markets.
7. The Vegetarian Festival – Thailand
This nine-day festival in Phuket, Thailand, is known for its extreme rituals. Participants, called “Mah Song,” pierce their cheeks with swords, knives, and even umbrellas! They believe that enduring pain will bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. Despite its shocking nature, the event is a major attraction for visitors.
8. Battle of the Oranges – Italy
Ivrea, Italy, hosts an intense orange-throwing battle every February. Inspired by a medieval rebellion, participants split into teams and hurl oranges at each other in a symbolic fight against oppression. Thousands of oranges are thrown, creating a sticky mess that covers the streets.
9. The Crying Baby Contest – Japan
In Japan, the “Naki Sumo” contest pits two babies against each other in a crying match. Sumo wrestlers hold the babies, and the one who cries first (or loudest) is declared the winner. The tradition, which dates back 400 years, is believed to bring good health and a long life to infants.
10. Boryeong Mud Festival – South Korea
South Korea’s Boryeong Mud Festival is all about getting dirty! Every July, thousands of people gather to play in mud pits, go mud wrestling, and slide down mud-covered slides. Created to promote Boryeong’s mineral-rich mud, the festival has become a major international event.
Conclusion
The world is full of weird and wonderful traditions that bring people together in unique ways. Whether it’s throwing food, rolling down hills, or celebrating fertility, these festivals showcase the rich diversity of human culture. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, why not add one of these bizarre events to your bucket list?
Would you participate in any of these? Let us know your favorite!