The world is full of unique cultures, traditions, and celebrations — but some festivals are so unusual that they barely seem real or bizarre.
These festivals show how diverse and fascinating human traditions can be. Some are rooted in ancient beliefs, others are modern celebrations, but all of them prove that people love to celebrate in creative — and sometimes very strange — ways.
From food fights to quirky rituals, here are 10 of the bizarre festivals on Earth that will leave you amazed, amused, or totally confused.
1. La Tomatina – Spain
Every year in Buñol, thousands of people gather for one purpose: to throw tomatoes at each other. Trucks dump tons of ripe tomatoes into the streets, and the world’s biggest food fight begins. It’s messy, hilarious, and totally unforgettable.
2. Monkey Buffet Festival – Thailand
In Lopburi, Thailand, locals host a giant feast for monkeys. Tables are filled with fruits, vegetables, and even soft drinks — all for the wild macaques that live in the area. Visitors watch as the monkeys enjoy their royal buffet.
3. Baby Jumping Festival – Spain
Called El Colacho, this festival involves men dressed as “devils” jumping over newborn babies (don’t worry — they’re placed safely on mattresses). It’s believed to bring protection and good luck to the infants.
4. Night of the Radishes – Mexico
Yes — radishes. In Oaxaca, artists carve giant radishes into detailed sculptures, scenes, and characters. The city fills with crowds admiring these temporary vegetable artworks.
5. Boryeong Mud Festival – South Korea
What started as a promotion for cosmetics turned into a massive event where people play in giant pools of mud, compete in mud games, and enjoy concerts — all while covered head to toe.
6. Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling – England
Participants chase a rolling wheel of cheese down a steep hill. The cheese can reach surprising speeds, and the race ends in chaotic tumbles. It’s weird, wild, and oddly competitive.
7. Kanamara Matsuri (Iron Phallus Festival) – Japan
A traditional festival celebrating health, fertility, and protection, featuring symbolic decorations and parades. It’s quirky but deeply rooted in local history and beliefs.
8. Up Helly Aa – Scotland
This Viking-inspired fire festival features people in warrior costumes marching through the streets with torches. The celebration ends with the dramatic burning of a wooden Viking ship.
9. Hadaka Matsuri – Japan
Thousands of men dressed in minimal traditional clothing (usually loincloths) gather at temples to participate in purification rites and try to catch a “lucky” sacred object. It’s energetic and packed with tradition.
10. Running of the Bulls – Spain
During Pamplona’s famous festival, participants run through the streets alongside bulls. Although it’s world-famous, it’s also considered one of the most extreme and risky traditions.
