20 Unusual Festivals Around the World You Should Experience

The world is a treasure trove of unique and quirky traditions that bring communities together in celebration. From bizarre rituals to awe-inspiring spectacles, these unusual festivals offer a glimpse into the creativity and culture of different societies. Whether you’re looking for something outrageous or deeply symbolic, these festivals will leave you with unforgettable memories. Here are 20 extraordinary celebrations that you should add to your bucket list.

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La Tomatina, Spain

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Every year, the streets of Buñol, Spain, turn into a sea of red as thousands gather to hurl tomatoes at each other. This messy, joyous food fight began in 1945 and has since become a global phenomenon.

Participants are advised to squash their tomatoes first to avoid injuries, making it a safe and thrilling experience for all.

Monkey Buffet Festival, Thailand

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In Lopburi, Thailand, monkeys are the VIPs at this annual feast. Locals prepare a grand buffet of fruits, vegetables, and desserts for the resident macaques.

The festival honors the monkeys for bringing good luck and tourism to the area, and it’s as entertaining as it is heartwarming.

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Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling, England

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This daring event sees participants chasing a rolling wheel of cheese down a steep hill in Gloucestershire, England. While injuries are common, the adrenaline and laughter make it worthwhile.

The first person to catch the cheese wins, but for most, it’s all about the chaotic fun.

Battle of the Oranges, Italy

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Image Credit: DepositPhotos

In Ivrea, Italy, the Battle of the Oranges reenacts a medieval rebellion with a fruity twist. Teams pelt each other with oranges, symbolizing the fight for freedom.

It’s a vibrant, energetic spectacle that draws thousands of participants and spectators each year.

Songkran, Thailand

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Thailand’s New Year festival is a nationwide water fight. Streets turn into battlegrounds as people armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses drench each other.

The festival is rooted in Buddhist traditions of cleansing and renewal, but today, it’s all about fun and laughter.

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Boryeong Mud Festival, South Korea

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Originally created to promote Boryeong’s mineral-rich mud, this festival has become a playground of mud wrestling, slides, and spa treatments. Held on Daecheon Beach, it’s a messy yet rejuvenating experience that attracts locals and tourists alike.

Baby Jumping Festival, Spain

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Known as El Colacho, this unusual festival in Castrillo de Murcia involves men dressed as devils jumping over rows of babies laid on mattresses. The tradition dates back to the 17th century and is believed to cleanse the infants of sin and ensure good fortune.

Day of Silence, Bali

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Nyepi, Bali’s New Year celebration, is a day of complete silence, fasting, and meditation. The entire island shuts down, including airports and roads.

This peaceful pause is followed by lively festivities the next day, making it a unique mix of introspection and celebration.

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World Toe Wrestling Championships, England

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This quirky competition in Derbyshire tests participants’ strength and dexterity through toe wrestling. Think of it as arm wrestling but with toes.

It’s lighthearted, bizarre, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

Holi, India

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Holi, the festival of colors, is a joyful celebration of love, unity, and the arrival of spring. Participants throw colored powders at each other, dance to music, and indulge in sweets.

It’s a vibrant explosion of happiness that attracts people from all walks of life.

Burning Man, USA

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Held in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, Burning Man is an artistic and cultural phenomenon. Participants create a temporary city filled with art installations, performances, and self-expression.

The event culminates in the burning of a massive wooden effigy.

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Night of the Radishes, Mexico

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In Oaxaca, Mexico, radishes become works of art during Noche de Rábanos. Farmers and artists carve intricate designs into radishes, creating scenes from folklore and daily life.

The festival is a showcase of creativity and local culture.

Air Guitar World Championships, Finland

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This playful event in Oulu, Finland, celebrates the art of imaginary guitar playing. Participants perform with passion and flair, proving that you don’t need a real guitar to rock out.

It’s hilarious, theatrical, and surprisingly competitive.

Kanamara Matsuri, Japan

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The “Festival of the Steel Phallus” in Kawasaki celebrates fertility, protection, and safe childbirth. Large phallic statues are paraded through the streets, accompanied by music and food stalls.

It’s both lighthearted and deeply rooted in tradition.

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Lopburi Sunflower Festival, Thailand

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Fields of sunflowers bloom in Lopburi each year, creating a stunning natural spectacle. The festival celebrates the beauty of these golden flowers, with photo opportunities, local crafts, and delicious sunflower seed snacks.

Up Helly Aa, Scotland

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This Viking-inspired fire festival in Shetland involves torch-lit processions, traditional music, and the ceremonial burning of a Viking longship.

It’s a fiery tribute to Shetland’s Norse heritage and a thrilling winter celebration.

La Pourcailhade, France

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In Trie-sur-Baïse, this festival honors pigs with events like pig races, sausage-eating contests, and the hilarious pig squealing competition.

It’s a quirky celebration of rural traditions and culinary delights.

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Harbin Ice Festival, China

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The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival transforms the Chinese city into a frozen wonderland. Enormous ice sculptures, illuminated by colorful lights, create a magical atmosphere.

It’s a testament to human creativity and resilience.

Dia de los Muertos, Mexico

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Day of the Dead is a vibrant celebration of life and remembrance. Families honor their departed loved ones with altars, marigolds, and offerings.

The colorful parades, costumes, and music make it a deeply moving and joyous occasion.

Camel Wrestling Championship, Turkey

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In Selçuk, Turkey, camels compete in a wrestling match during this annual festival. The event is steeped in tradition and draws crowds of locals and tourists.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into a unique cultural practice.

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