In a world of increasing homogeneity, unusual festivals stand as vibrant testaments to cultural diversity and human creativity. While many travelers flock to well-known celebrations like Carnival in Rio or Oktoberfest in Munich, have you ever wondered what the most bizarre and captivating festivals around the world look like?
This guide will introduce you to five extraordinary festivals that should be on every adventurous traveler’s bucket list.t.
1. The Monkey Buffet Festival – Lopburi, Thailand
What It Is
The Monkey Buffet Festival in Lopburi, Thailand, is a one-of-a-kind event where over 2,000 macaques feast on lavish spreads of fruits, vegetables, and sweets at the Phra Prang Sam Yot temple. Celebrated annually since 1989, it’s a playful yet culturally significant event.
Why It’s Unique
This festival stems from a local legend that the Hindu god Rama granted the land to his loyal monkey army, making the macaques sacred. It highlights Thailand’s deep respect for animals and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
When To Go
Last Sunday in November is when the festival takes place. Attendance has surged by 35% in recent years, so booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended.
Tips & Warnings
- Bring a zoom lens for great photos.
- While friendly, the monkeys are still wild—follow local guides’ advice.
- Secure your belongings, as these macaques are skilled pickpockets!
2. El Colacho (Baby Jumping Festival) – Castrillo de Murcia, Spain
What It Is
Dating back to 1620, Spain’s El Colacho festival involves men dressed as the devil jumping over rows of babies born that year. This centuries-old tradition is part of the Catholic feast of Corpus Christi in the village of Castrillo de Murcia.
Why It’s Unique
Unlike typical newborn blessings, this ritual involves a dramatic leap of faith. Anthropologists believe the jump symbolizes absorbing evil, leaving babies purified. Parents and local officials closely oversee the event, ensuring safety.
When To Go
Held annually in June, it coincides with Corpus Christi celebrations. With only 600-800 visitors, the festival retains its intimate, authentic atmosphere.
Facts & Tips
- No injuries have been recorded in its 400-year history
- The Catholic Church officially distances itself from the practice.
- Most attendees are locals—respect the tradition’s deep cultural roots.
3. Festival of Boryeong Mud in Boryeong, South Korea
What It Is
Starting as a 1998 marketing event for local cosmetics, the Boryeong Mud Festival has grown into South Korea’s top international festival. Visitors dive into mud slides, wrestling pits, and pools, while also enjoying mud-based beauty treatments.
Why It’s Unique
The festival highlights the mineral-rich Boryeong mud, scientifically proven to contain germanium, bentonite, and selenium—minerals known for their skin-enhancing properties.
When To Go
Held for two weeks in July, the festival attracted 2.2 million visitors in 2023, with 21% being international attendees.
Fact & Tips
- The festival uses around 190 tons of mud annually.
- Bring waterproof cases for electronics—everything gets muddy!
- Special zones are available for children and families.
4. Cheese Rolling at Cooper’s Hill in Gloucester, England
What It Is
The Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling Festival near Gloucester is a wild mix of tradition, danger, and humor. Competitors chase a 9-pound Double Gloucester cheese down a 45-degree hill, often tumbling at high speeds in the process.
Why It’s Unique
Despite safety concerns, this 200-year-old tradition persists. A 2018 study found its injury rate is 15 times higher than rugby, with common injuries including sprains, fractures, and concussions.
When To Go
Held annually on the Spring Bank Holiday (late May), the event draws 5,000-8,000 spectators despite its unofficial status.
Fact & Tips
- The cheese has a top speed of 70 miles per hour.
- The best (and safest) view is from the sides of the hill.
- Winners receive only the cheese, but lifelong fame in the cheese-rolling world!
5. The Night of the Radishes (Noche de Rábanos) – Oaxaca, Mexico
What It Is
On December 23rd, Oaxaca’s central square is filled with intricate sculptures carved from oversized radishes. Artists compete to create scenes such as nativity displays or historical events using nothing but vegetables.
Why It’s Unique
Originating in 1897, this festival stems from colonial-era market traditions where vendors carved radishes to attract customers. Special cultivation techniques have been developed to grow jumbo radishes (up to 3 kg) for this event.
When To Go
The festival takes place on December 23rd, perfect for adding a unique twist to your holiday travels. Around 100,000 visitors attend each year.
Fact & Tips
- The radishes deteriorate quickly, making this an ephemeral art form.
- Arrive early to see the displays at their peak vibrancy.
- The radishes are not treated with preservatives, keeping the challenge authentic.
Planning Your Visit
When adding these unusual festivals to your travel itinerary, consider these practical aspects:
- Cultural Sensitivity: These events aren’t tourist attractions but meaningful cultural expressions
- Advance Planning: Many of these festivals occur in small communities with limited accommodation
- Documentation: Check festival policies regarding photography and video recording
- Local Regulations: Some festivals have specific visitor guidelines or participation requirements
The Value of Unusual Celebrations
Research from the International Journal of Cultural Studies (2022) highlights that engaging in unique cultural festivals can boost cross-cultural empathy by as much as 28%, far surpassing the impact of traditional tourism experiences. These festivals offer a rare glimpse into the rich tapestry of traditions, values, and histories that shape local identities.
So, why not pack your bags (and maybe an extra set of clothes for the mud festival)? Embark on a journey to discover these extraordinary celebrations that showcase the limitless creativity of humanity.
FAQs About Unusual Festivals
Q: Are these festivals appropriate for families with children?
A: Each festival has different suitability levels. The Mud Festival in South Korea has designated family areas, while the Cheese Rolling in England is better for older children who can observe from safe distances. Always research specific accommodations for families before planning your trip.
Q: How can I respectfully participate as a foreign visitor?
A: Learn basic phrases in the local language, follow established visitor guidelines, and observe before participating. Many festivals welcome tourist participation when approached with respect and genuine curiosity.
Q: Are these festivals expensive to attend?
A: Most of these festivals have free or nominal entrance fees, but travel costs vary significantly depending on your point of origin. The Boryeong Mud Festival charges approximately $12 USD for entrance, while the Night of Radishes is free to observe.
Q: What should I pack for these festivals?
A: For the Mud Festival, bring clothes you don’t mind discarding. For outdoor festivals like Cheese Rolling, weather-appropriate gear is essential. Generally, comfortable footwear, sun protection, and camera equipment are recommended for all.
Q: How are these traditional festivals adapting to modern tourism?
A: Many festivals balance preservation with accessibility. The Monkey Buffet Festival now includes educational components about wildlife conservation, while the Mud Festival incorporates environmental sustainability practices as attendance grows.
